The Animal Health Division of the CNMI Department of Lands and Natural Resources (DLNR) is dedicated to the following key priorities:

1. Protection of Public and Environmental Health: We focus on monitoring and controlling animal-borne illnesses to safeguard public health and the environment. Our proactive measures help prevent the spread of diseases that can affect both animals and humans.
   • Partial Lift of Poultry Import Ban Memo - 05/12/2025
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   • Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) Memo - 02/26/2025
2. Promotion of Food Animal Health and Production: We support local ranchers by evaluating their needs and providing necessary resources to enhance food animal health and production. Our goal is to ensure a healthy and sustainable food supply in the CNMI.
3. Import Health Documentation and Permitting: We rigorously evaluate the health documentation of animals being imported into the CNMI. Eligible animals are issued entry permits, ensuring that imported animals meet the health standards necessary to prevent the introduction of diseases.
4. Pet Export Guidance: We are able to provide limited guidance regarding the processes for exporting pets from the CNMI. At this time we are unable to provide health certificates due to having no resident veterinarian on island. Pet shipping can be complicated, and we suggest working with a pet shipper.

For more detailed information on our processes and how we can assist you, please explore the links below:

• Importing a Pet into the CNMI: Learn about the requirements and procedures for bringing your pet to the CNMI.
• Importing Poultry or Hatching Eggs
• Rancher Survey: Participate in our survey to help us better understand and support food animal health and production needs in the CNMI.

For any other questions, please reach out to us at or (670) 256-3319.