For Immediate Release: May 14, 2025
Portland, Oregon

NAIA Applauds Reintroduction of Bipartisan Healthy Dog Importation Act

Today the National Animal Interest Alliance (NAIA) applauded the reintroduction of the Healthy Dog Importation Act, a bipartisan and bicameral bill that establishes critical health and vaccination safeguards for dogs imported into the United States.

The legislation, introduced by Representatives Dusty Johnson (R-SD) and Don Davis (D-NC) in the House and Senators Chuck Grassley (R-IA) and Tina Smith (D-MN) in the Senate, equips the U.S. Department of Agriculture with additional tools necessary to prevent the introduction and spread of foreign animal diseases.

“Each year, more than one million dogs are imported into the United States, many from regions with inadequate veterinary infrastructure or poor disease control,” said Patti Strand, President of the National Animal Interest Alliance. “The Healthy Dog Importation Act ensures that imported dogs meet basic health standards before crossing our borders—an essential safeguard not only for animal welfare, but for public health, biosecurity, and the integrity of our domestic pet and livestock industries. It’s a commonsense measure that responds to the realities of an increasingly interconnected world.”

NAIA extends its appreciation to the bipartisan sponsors of this vital legislation and urges Congress to prioritize its passage this year.

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If you would like more information about this topic, please contact Patti Strand, NAIA President at naia@naiaonline.org or call 503-756-0826

The National Animal Interest Alliance (NAIA) is a 501 (c) (3) nonprofit organization that was founded in 1991 to bring together subject matter experts in animal welfare and husbandry to provide evidence-based solutions to complex issues involving animals.