Your Comprehensive Guide on Pet Travel to Canada

Are you preparing for a trip to Canada with your beloved pet? In this guide, we will explain the regulations and requirements including vaccinations, health certificates, and breed restrictions. 

• Key Requirements for Pet Travel to Canada: Necessary documentation and health measures for dogs, cats and other animals.
• Preparing Your Pet for Travel to Canada: Tips for ensuring comfort and managing anxiety during the journey.
• Cost: Pet Travel to Canada varies based on several factors.
• Professional Help: How a Professional Pet travel agency can Help with your Pet’s Transportation
• FAQ: The most common question on Pet Travel to Canada answered

Embarking on a journey to Canada with your pet can be a fulfilling experience with proper guidance and preparation. Explore these aspects to ensure your pet’s travel to Canada is as smooth and comfortable as possible.

Understanding the Requirements for Pet Travel to Canada

Necessary Documentation for Pet Travel to Canada for Dogs

• Microchipping: Canada does not mandate microchipping for pet dogs unless the import is commercial. However, it’s strongly recommended to have your dog microchipped with an ISO 11784 compliant 15 digit pet microchip for easy identification.
• Rabies Vaccination: Dogs over 8 months old from rabies-free countries (like Australia, Japan, the UK, etc.) need proof of rabies vaccination or a health certificate. If coming from other countries, a valid rabies vaccination certificate is required. There’s no waiting period after vaccination, and Canada recognizes three-year rabies vaccinations.
• Health Certificate: A health certificate might be needed, detailing the dog’s vaccination dates and rabies vaccine details. This is especially crucial for unaccompanied puppies or commercial imports.
• Puppies Under 8 Months: Unaccompanied puppies under 8 months old are subject to specific regulations, including a microchip, health certificate, and an import permit. Puppies for commercial purposes must enter as air cargo.
• Entering Canada: Dogs must be in good health upon entry. Inspection fees apply. Specific breeds may face restrictions or bans, especially in Ontario and Winnipeg.
• Exporting Pets from Canada: Proper documentation is needed for dogs leaving Canada, including an export permit endorsed by the State CFIA office.
• Other Requirements: For special cases like service dogs, different rules may apply. Also, dogs entering Canada with puppies under three months old are exempt from import requirements.
• Banned Breeds in Certain Areas: Specific breeds such as the American Staffordshire Terrier, Pit Bull Terrier, American Pit Bull Terrier, and Staffordshire Bull Terrier, as well as their crosses, are banned from entering or transiting through the province of Ontario. Additionally, the City of Toronto also imposes a ban on these breeds. Note that transiting through Toronto is not permitted on certain airlines like WestJet. Other regions like Winnipeg have their own restrictions on breeds such as American Pit Bull Terrier, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, or American Staffordshire Terrier

Necessary Documentation for Pet Travel to Canada for Cats

• Microchipping: While Canada does not require microchipping for cats unless the import is commercial, it’s advisable to microchip your cat for identification purposes. The recommended microchip should be a 15 digit ISO 11784 compliant pet microchip.
• Rabies Vaccination: Cats over 3 months old from rabies-free countries (such as Australia, Japan, the UK, etc.) need either proof of current rabies vaccination or a health certificate. Cats from other countries require a valid rabies vaccination certificate. The rabies vaccination is considered valid without a waiting period, and Canada recognizes three-year rabies vaccinations.
• Health Certificate: While not always mandatory, a health certificate completed by a licensed veterinarian may be required, especially for unaccompanied or commercial imports. This certificate should include detailed information about the cat’s rabies vaccination.
• Entering Canada: Cats entering Canada must be in good health. If they are not in apparent good health upon arrival, further examination by a licensed veterinarian might be required at the owner’s expense. Inspection fees may apply.
• Exporting Pets from Canada: For cats leaving Canada, the relevant paperwork required by the destination country must be prepared and endorsed by the State CFIA office.
• Other Considerations: Cats entering Canada with kittens under three months old are exempt from import requirements. Special rules may apply to service animals.

Necessary Documentation for Pet Travel to Canada for Other Animals

• Rabbits from the USA: There’s no need for specific documentation for rabbits entering Canada from the United States, although they may be subject to inspection. However, it’s important that the rabbits have always been in your possession as pets.
• Rabbits from Other Countries: Rabbits imported from countries other than the United States require an import permit and may be subject to quarantine. You must accompany your rabbit and provide a statement confirming your continuous ownership as a pet.
• Rodents: Animals like guinea pigs, gerbils, mice, rats, chinchillas, and hamsters do not require a permit or health certificate to enter Canada.
• Ferrets: Ferrets over 3 months old from the United States must have proof of current rabies vaccination. If entering from other countries, an import permit issued by the local CFIA office in the destination province is required.
• Birds from the USA: Bird owners must accompany their domesticated birds into Canada from the United States. A declaration stating the birds have been in the owner’s possession for the past 90 days and have not been in contact with other birds is required. The birds must be healthy upon inspection and not intended for resale.
• Birds from Other Countries: Birds entering Canada from countries other than the US will need an import permit from the local CFIA office. Specific bans and additional requirements may apply depending on the country of origin.
• Exotic Pets: For pets that are not dogs, cats, or ferrets, particularly turtles or parrots, check if they are protected under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). Additional permits may be required for CITES-protected animals.
• General Considerations: For all animals, it’s crucial to stay updated on the latest regulations and ensure all documentation is in order before travel. Noncompliance with regulations can result in quarantine, return to the country of origin, or even euthanasia in extreme cases.

Preparing Your Pet for Travel to Canada

Preparing your pet for travel to Canada is crucial for ensuring their comfort and safety during the journey. It involves familiarizing them with travel conditions, managing their health, and addressing any behavioral concerns. Here are some effective strategies:

• Familiarization with the Carrier: Gradually introduce your pet to the travel carrier to reduce anxiety.
• Consistent Routine: Maintain a consistent feeding and exercise routine leading up to the trip.
• Behavioral Training: Address any behavioral issues with the help of a professional trainer.
• Comfort Items: Pack familiar toys and bedding to provide comfort during travel.

Dealing with Pet Anxiety during Travel

Travel can be stressful for pets, and managing their anxiety is an integral part of the preparation process. Here’s how you can help:

• Calm Environment: Create a tranquil setting in the travel carrier with soft bedding and familiar scents.
• Anxiety Aids: Consider using pheromone sprays or anxiety vests for pets prone to stress.
• Consult a Vet: Discuss the possibility of using mild sedatives or anti-anxiety medication with your vet. Visit our Pet Travel Sedatives and Medications page.
• Familiarity and Reassurance: Your presence and familiar voice can be comforting to your pet during travel.

Cost of Pet Transports to Canada

The cost of transporting a pet to Canada varies based on several factors, including the size of the pet, the mode of transport, and the distance traveled. Additional costs may include health certifications, vaccinations, and potential quarantine fees. To get a more detailed and tailored estimate for your pet’s travel expenses, visit our Cost of Shipping a Pet by Air page for comprehensive information and guidance.

Frequently Asked Questions about Pet Travel to Canada

What are the required vaccinations for pets traveling to Canada?

Pets must be vaccinated against rabies, with documentation proving the vaccine was administered at least 30 days before entry into Canada.

Do pets need a microchip for travel to Canada?

While not mandatory, a microchip is highly recommended for identification purposes.

Is a health certificate required for pets entering Canada?

Yes, a valid health certificate from a licensed veterinarian is necessary.

Can I bring my exotic pet to Canada?

Regulations vary for exotic pets. It’s essential to check specific rules related to the species of your pet.

Are there breed-specific restrictions for dogs entering Canada?

Canada does not have federal breed-specific bans, but some provinces or municipalities might have restrictions.

How long before my travel should I start preparing my pet?

Start preparations at least a few months in advance to ensure all vaccinations and documents are in order.

What is the quarantine period for pets in Canada?

Canada does not typically require a quarantine period for healthy pets with proper documentation.

Are there different rules for puppies or kittens traveling to Canada?

Yes, there are specific regulations for young animals, especially concerning vaccinations and age.

How should I prepare my pet for air travel to Canada?

Acclimate your pet to its travel crate, ensure it’s fit for travel, and consult with your vet.

Can I bring pet food into Canada?

You can bring a small amount of pet food for personal use, but it must meet certain conditions, such as being commercially packaged and not containing lamb, goat, or venison.