Held by CBP at JFK
(Before anyone comes for me, he does fly in a carrier it’s just not in the photo!)
I’ve been flying back and forth 1-2x per year between NYC and Barcelona with a dog for 7 years (3 years with this dog) and always had a smooth ride. He’s fully documented in both countries and I have global entry. Usually they just glance at his CBP import form/rabies cert and send me on my way.
Flying into JFK a few weeks ago, however, I was asked to step aside and taken into a back office by a CBP officer. They held me for over an hour without telling me anything and said someone would come speak with me soon. When I tried to text my dad waiting for me in the terminal to let him know I’d be delayed I was berated for using my phone and told I was not allowed to contact anyone. I also expressed concern that my dog had just come off an 8 hour flight and needed the pet relief area and was refused access.
Finally someone came in and grilled me about my dog. My understanding is that the CBP import form is technically the only paperwork required at the moment but they wanted to see all his vet records which thank GOD I always carry with me just to be safe. After a lot of questioning the agent finally said “okay well I guess you can go” and they let me leave.
The whole experience left me a bit shaken. Has anyone else had anything similar happen recently?