It is disheartening when you discover at the port of entry that you are not allowed to bring your beloved pet into Canada because it could not pass the import requirement.
Canada has strict rules for bringing a pet into the country, and sadly there is no short cut around it, you must comply with the regulations if you wish for your pet to accompany you to the Home of Lakes. You should be aware there are certain requirements and restrictions but most domestic pets can be allowed to enter Canada if they comply with import laws.
Read on to know what is required before your beloved pet can be allowed entry.
Importing Pets
Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) is the Canadian agency responsible for the regulations of importation of animals into Canada. The CFIA has inspectors stationed at every Canadian Port of entry, who are tasked to inspect and regulate the import of animals.
Applicants should know that the restrictions and requirements of animals coming into Canada varies, depending on the species, health status, country of origin and most important purpose of import. The requirements are published on the Canadian Food Inspection Agency’s website.
Plan Ahead
Before embarking on that memorable trip with your pet, ensure your pet is in good health and shape to embark on the journey. You may be required to present health documents certifying your pet’s health status.
Airlines have different guidelines for bringing pet on-board. Contact your airline to learn about their rules about the pet.
Vaccinations
You will need to present a certificate from a licensed veterinarian to prove your pet is rabies-free. The certificate must prove that the past six months rabies has not existed in the originating country and that your pet in the past six months has been living in the country.
These countries and territories are officially recognized as rabies-free by the Canadian government.
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, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Sweden, Turks and Caicos, United Kingdom (England, Northern Ireland, Scotland), and Uruguay.
Microchip Implant
Though not usually required, it is recommended for your pet to be tagged with a pet microchip for easy location should your pet get lost or separated.
Pets Under Three Months
Pets younger than three months are relieved from import requirements, but the owner must be able to prove the age of the pet.
Adequate Food And Water
On long flights, pet owners must ensure adequate food and water is provided for the pet.
Pet Food
A maximum of 44 pounds of food is allowed for entry into Canada.
Appropriate Animal Carriers
Pet container must have adequate ventilation, and enough room for the pet to lie, stand, and even turn around.
Import Permit Fees
You are required to pay a fee when you apply for an import permit, inspection of animals, and a quarantine facility. The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) import office will advise appropriately on the required fees.