Canada Pet Import Details

Information and requirements for the importation of cats and dogs into Canada.

There is no official quarantine for cats and dogs entering Canada from the United Kingdom.

Requirements:

1. An Official Export Health certificate obtainable from DEFRA (please contact us for your nearest office) is only required if the animal has not been vaccinated against rabies within the last 2 years.

If the animal has been vaccinated against rabies within the last 2 years, the Airline requires that you obtain a general health certificate (Fitness to Fly) from any vet within 7 days of the date of travel.

 
2. A letter declaring that the animal(s) is/are domestic pet(s) owned by you and will be collected by yourself at the airport of destination. The letter should also state all the relevant flight details.

It is advisable that dogs and cats are identified by either microchip or by permanent tattoo.

Animals must be shipped in containers built to IATA specifications which are the correct size for them i.e. they must be large enough for the animal to stand up without touching the top of the box, lie down comfortably and be able to turn round within the box. There must also be a fixed water container inside the container with a means of filling it from the outside (funnel).

With information on the measurements of the animal(s) we can build Kennels (wood frame, plywood sides, wire mesh front) to fit. This can be either picked up from us or delivered to any U.K. Airport to coincide with your check in time or be delivered to your home.

You may be able to take cats and dogs as excess baggage, which would mean booking direct with the airline. This is generally (but not always) the cheaper option (please note that some airlines cannot take livestock and that there may be restrictions such as standby status depending on the airline and the route). However should the animal(s) be a particularly large shipment (in Airline terms) or coping with the animal(s) at the same time as the move be particularly difficult then we can offer the cargo option along with other services including collection, kenneling and fitness to fly certification.

However should the animal(s) be a particularly large shipment (in Airline terms) or coping with the animal(s) at the same time as the move be particularly difficult then we can offer the cargo option along with other services including collection, kenneling and Health certification.

Canada are now members of the Pet Passport Travel Scheme, so if you feel you may be returning to the U.K. with your pet, speak to DEFRA pets helpline on +44 (0)870 241 1710 or visit their web site by clicking on our link.