Is your furry friend joining you on your journey to Canada? If you’re curious about what to expect or the steps to take next when moving to Canada with your pet, you’re not alone. Traveling internationally with a pet can be a unique adventure for many pet owners. Each country has its own set of rules and regulations that pet parents must adhere to in order to ensure the health, safety, and comfort of their beloved animals during the trip.
Fortunately, Canadians are known for their love of animals, which is reflected in their relatively relaxed policies regarding pet travel. Unlike many other nations, your pet won’t face quarantine upon arrival in Canada, provided they are healthy and possess the required documentation. In this blog, we will guide you through the essential steps for moving to Canada with your pet, including the necessary documents and a breakdown of potential costs.
Moving to Canada With Your Pet – What You Need to Know
Which Animals Need Import Permits?
Unfortunately, only cats and dogs are classified as pets that can enter Canada without an import permit, but this is only applicable if they are traveling as domestic imports (accompanied by their owners) and not for commercial purposes, such as adoption, exhibition, or scientific research.
If your pet is a non-traditional animal, such as a bird or a spider, or if they fall under a commercial category, you will need to apply for an import permit through the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA).
Other Important Things to Know Before Moving to Canada With Your Pet:
- Commercial dogs and cats older than 8 months do not require import permits, but proof of age must be presented upon entry.
- Certain breeds, including the American Staffordshire Terrier, Pit Bull Terrier, American Pit Bull Terrier, and Staffordshire Bull Terrier, along with their crosses, are prohibited from entering or transiting through Ontario, Toronto, and Winnipeg.
- Domestic dogs and cats traveling with their owners are not required to be microchipped for identification.
- You can bring pet food (up to 20kg) into Canada, provided it is commercially packaged and sourced from the USA. Your pet must accompany you during entry.
Does My Cat or Dog Need a Rabies Certificate?
If you are traveling from a country that Canada does not recognize as rabies-free, your pet will need a rabies vaccination certificate. If you are coming from a rabies-free country, only a veterinary certificate indicating the origin of your animal is necessary. This requirement applies to cats and dogs over 3 months old, and proof of age for puppies and kittens may be requested.
Countries Recognized as Rabies-Free
- Anguilla
- Antigua
- Australia
- Bahamas
- Barbados
- Bermuda
- Cayman Islands
- Fiji
- Finland
- Iceland
- Ireland (Republic of)
- Jamaica
- Japan
- New Zealand
- Norway
- Saint Kitts and Nevis
- Saint Lucia
- Saint Martin (Netherlands Antilles)
- Saint Pierre et Miquelon
- Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
- Sweden
- Turks and Caicos Islands
- United Kingdom (England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland)
- Uruguay
Airport: Health & Comfort Checks
Most airlines have specific requirements for transporting pets, so it’s advisable to contact your airline ahead of time to understand the necessary procedures. Depending on your pet’s weight and the duration of your flight, they may be allowed as hand baggage instead of checked baggage or cargo.
Pets traveling as checked baggage must be housed in airline-approved kennels or cages that are waterproof and well-ventilated. The cage should be spacious enough for your pet to sit, stand, and turn around comfortably. Companies like PETport offer rental options for cages.
Your airline may also require a health certificate from a licensed veterinarian, confirming that your pet is healthy for travel and has received all necessary vaccinations.
What Fees Do I Need to Pay?
Bringing your pet to Canada comes with certain costs. The fees will vary based on your airline and your pet’s size and weight. However, for animal lovers, these expenses are a small price to pay for moving to Canada with your pet.
- Inspection Fees: There is a $30 inspection fee, plus $5 for each additional animal upon arrival in Canada. This fee is payable at the time of inspection.
- Animal Excess Baggage Fees: These fees vary by airline and depend on your pet’s weight class. For instance, a pet with a cage weighing up to 23kg and measuring 59 inches may cost around $500 with Emirates Airlines.
- Rabies Vaccination: The cost of rabies vaccines ranges from $7 to $20. The first booster shot is required after one year, with subsequent boosters typically needed every three years.
- Import Fees: The CFIA will provide information on the applicable fees for your specific pet and situation.
By following these guidelines, you can ensure a smooth transition for both you and your furry companion when moving to Canada with your pet.