OMAHA (DTN) -- The Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) issued a special transit permit allowing reindeer to enter and exit the United States during Christmas Eve night, the agency announced Monday.

The permit grants S. Nicholas Claus of the North Pole, a distributor with Gifts and Good Cheer, Inc., authority to bring reindeer across U.S. borders between 6 p.m. on Dec. 24, and 6 a.m. on Dec. 25, 2025, local time, through any U.S. border port.

"USDA is delighted to grant Mr. Claus and his reindeer a special permit to enter the United States, ensuring a seamless journey for the joy they bring each holiday season," said Dudley Hoskins, USDA undersecretary for marketing and regulatory programs.

The reindeer cleared all veterinary entry requirements before permit issuance. Dr. Rosemary Sifford, USDA's chief veterinary officer, confirmed at a recent inspection that the reindeer were healthy and able to prance and paw with each hoof.

One reindeer, Rudolph, has a minor physical anomaly noted on the health certificate. APHIS determined Rudolph's bright red nose was normal for the animal and not a health concern.

APHIS regulates cervid movement, including reindeer, to protect U.S. livestock health. The permitting process ensures only healthy animals enter the country.

The reindeer will arrive pulling a wooden sleigh with jingling bells, filled with wrapped gifts, according to USDA. Port personnel will clean and disinfect the sleigh runners and underside upon entry. Officials will conduct a visual inspection of the reindeer.

Claus must disinfect his boots and wash his hands thoroughly. These biosecurity measures aim to prevent introducing livestock diseases the team may encounter during worldwide deliveries before entering the United States.

Claus provided an advance manifest of expected items for port personnel. The list includes various food items from approved locations that pose no threat to U.S. animal or plant health.

"It's important that Gifts and Good Cheer, Inc., take all the right steps and precautions to protect against the potential introduction of pests and diseases," Claus said. "I appreciate USDA's assistance every year as we gear up for our big night."

Hoskins welcomed Claus and recognized the vital role of U.S. whole milk and cookies in fueling the festive flight.

Trent Grundmeyer, owner of Antler Acre Farm in Huxley, Iowa, has four reindeer on their farm. He says their wide feet are adapted to walking across the snow and other cold ground and there's even hair on the bottom of their feet for traction, which makes them a perfect animal for winter.

The two newest additions to their herd are Blitz and Buddy, two Alaska-born reindeer who, according to Grundmeyer, enjoy the colder temperatures during the winter months. They are acclimating to Iowa and will join Belle and Noelle in attending events next winter.

To track Santa's voyage around the world, follow: https://www.noradsanta.org/….

Jennifer Carrico can be reached at jennifer.carrico@dtn.com

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