Here’s what you need to know to make the journey smooth and safe for both you and your pet.
Travelling with your dog. Before the journey.
You should start this whole process as early as possible, for preparation, paperwork and bookings.
- Check with the airline: Airlines have different rules for pet travel, check their website to understand their requirements and reach out to them about bringing your dog. You will probably have to book way ahead. Some pets can travel in the cabin (under 8kg with carrier), while larger pets may need to go in the cargo hold.
- Visit your vet: Make sure that it is safe for your dog to fly. Ask the best ways to suit your pet. There are potential natural solutions out there to calm your pet, but check with your vet. They will have to give you a letter.
- Health check and paperwork: Ensure your pet is healthy and has all necessary vaccinations, including rabies. Depending on the country you’re flying from, you may need:
- A pet passport or health certificate.
- A "fit to fly" letter signed by a vet. Sometimes you might need this signed by the Department of Agriculture (for some countries like Ireland), check with your vet.
- Rabies vaccine.
- Pet carrier requirements: Your pet’s carrier must meet size and ventilation guidelines, with enough room for them to stand, turn, and lie down. Airlines may have specific size and weight limits, so check the airline’s pet travel guidelines before purchasing. Of course make sure they are comfortable as possible.
- Prepare with the crate: Give them practice by putting them used to their crate well in advance, allow them to have good, cozy experiences in the crate. Get them comfortable in going in the crate before, so it isn’t a brand new experience.
- Pet food restrictions: All pet food brought into Canada must be unopened, commercially packaged, and from the United States. A maximum of 44 pounds of food is allowed.
- Costs: Flying with your pet can cost anywhere from $200 for cabin travel to over $5000 for cargo via a pet export agent. Cargo companies often handle all the paperwork, which can reduce stress but adds to the price.
During the Flight
- Airlines: Air Canada and KLM are popular choices, but check for seasonal restrictions and specific requirements. Make sure the flight is with the same carrier the whole way.
- Pet comfort: Ensure your pet is comfortable in their carrier and familiar with it before the flight. Add a toy, blanket, whatever makes them happy.
Reassurance and Support
I understand you're probably worried about your pet, but thousands of pets immigrate to Canada from other countries every year. Approximately 37,500+ per year! So your dog will be okay. If you need reassurance, you can check out this Facebook group:
Arriving in Canada
- Arrival in Customs in Canada: Most pets only require a rabies vaccine to enter Canada. Customs will typically check that your pet looks healthy and has the correct paperwork. Fees may apply at the agriculture desk, though not always.
- Insurance: Definitely get pet insurance. Vet bills can be expensive in Canada.
- Vancouver isn’t the most dog-friendly city: Public transport doesn’t allow pets, and finding pet-friendly housing can be tough.
- Settling in Vancouver: Dog-friendly off-leash areas aren’t as common as you might hope, and dog-friendly housing is more expensive usually.