Moving pets overseas

Moving pets to Canada

Moving to Canada with your pet is less problematic than transporting your animal to many other countries. Pet dogs and cats of any age, from any other country can visit Canada for any length of time without the need for a quarantine period. Whilst this policy may seem lenient, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) does reserve the right to refuse entry to any animal at any time.

Some of Canada’s quarantine laws are similar to those of the United States, including those regarding Rabies vaccination. If you are moving from the United Kingdom to Canada there is no legal requirement for a vaccination as the UK remains free from the disease. However, in order to protect your cat or dog from a risk of the disease on arrival in the country. If you have your pet vaccinated it is immediately protected from the threat of Rabies once you reach Canada.

To move a pet to Canada there is a need for a health certificate, known as a “Fit to Fly” certificate. This can be issued by your vet in your home country. There is some cost involved with acquiring this certificate. However, the need for this paperwork is alleviated when your dog or cat has had a Rabies vaccination and is identified using a microchip.

PETS passports are not a necessity in order to move an animal to Canada, although it is advisable to acquire one just in case you decide to visit the UK again or indeed relocate there permanently.

Although Canadian quarantine laws are, relatively, hassle-free, there is still a need to clear your pet through customs and then manage the transportation of your animal to your new home. Atlantic International Movers can deal with this process.

For information on moving pets other than cats and dogs to Canada it is best to visit the CFIA website for information, as different import regulations apply to the wider range of domestic animals.