SF BARC FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is it so expensive to import a dog into the United States (especially San Francisco?)
Importing a dog into the U.S.—and particularly into San Francisco—comes with a unique set of logistical, regulatory, and operational challenges. San Francisco is one of the most expensive cities in the country, which directly impacts the cost of manpower, veterinary services, transportation, and facility access. On top of that, the CDC mandates strict health exams and documentation, especially for pets arriving from high-risk rabies countries, which adds further complexity and cost. Every international pet import must also pass through customs clearance, cargo handling, and timed coordination with airlines—all requiring trained personnel and precise execution. SF BARC was created to simplify this process by bundling these essential services into one streamlined, transparent system. While the costs may seem high, they reflect the care, compliance, and coordination needed to ensure your pet arrives safely, legally, and comfortably.
How soon can my dog be released after arrival?
Assuming all paperwork is correct, the date/time of release is dependent on your dog's arrival date and time. If your dog arrives early, we may be able to complete the exam, CDC's review and CBP customs clearance for pick-up within the day. If your dog arrives later in the day, release would most likely be on the next working day.
Is there any way to shorten the 28 day quarantine?
The quick answer is yes. If your dog undergoes a rabies titer test and obtains a valid result, quarantine would only be a short-hold.
Why can't my dog arrive on a weekend?
You technically can, however, it would only mean your animal spending more time at SF BARC as CDC would not be around to review the results of the examination to release your dog from quarantine. For that reason, we do not take in animals on a weekend unless specially requested.
Can I pay in installments?
No, we unfortunately do not accept installment payments at this time. The base fee, as well as additional fees (for procedures mandated by CDC) must be paid in full. If you are concerned about CDC adding on additional test requirements, please read Medical History & CDC Hold Risk: How to avoid delays and additional costs