Moving Pets to Canada

Bringing dogs and cats along when moving to Canada

A move to a new place just isn’t the same without your canine and feline family members. Most state-to-state moves with pets are straightforward, but crossing into another country can involve additional steps.

Let’s review the process for moving from the U.S. to Canada with pets, so you can have everything in order before the journey.

Regulations for importing animals into Canada

Unlike some places, Canada doesn’t require a quarantine period for healthy imported domestic animals. However, you must follow Canadian guidelines for safely transporting pets and have the required documentation in order.

Required documents for crossing the Canadian border with a dog or cat

You will need for each pet these documents written in English or French:

• A valid rabies vaccination certificate
• Proof of ownership (veterinarian or adoption records containing the animal’s breed, color and weight) 

If the animal is too young for a rabies vaccine, a veterinarian's record is required, documenting the age of the dog or cat. Vaccines must be obtained when the animal reaches the proper age.

Check your destination for banned dog breeds

Although there is no nationwide ban in Canada, certain dog breeds are prohibited in specific locations. 

Dogs banned from entering Ontario and Winnipeg:

• American Pit Bull Terrier
• American Staffordshire Terrier
• Pit Bull Terrier (only banned in Ontario)
• Staffordshire Bull Terrier 

FAQs about moving pets to Canada

How much does it cost to move my pets to Canada?

There are no fees for most pets arriving from the U.S. by car; however, fees may apply for airport inspections or if veterinary assistance is required. 

Animals arriving from other countries typically incur an inspection fee of approximately CAD $36, plus an additional fee of CAD $6 for each subsequent animal.

Note: Fees are subject to change. Contact the CFIA or consult their inspection fee schedule online for current information. 

Is a microchip required for my pets?

The CFIA does not require pets to be microchipped. However, it is highly recommended that you implant your pet with a 15-digit ISO-compliant microchip in the event your pet gets lost or separated during travel. 

What do I need to bring my pets to Canada by plane?

You’ll need the same documentation required to cross the border by car, plus meet any airline regulations for animal travel.

Is it okay to bring food for my pets?

Yes, with these CFIA regulations:

• It weighs less than 20 kilograms (or 44 pounds)
• It’s manufactured in the U.S. and commercially packaged
• It’s in your possession at the point of entry (POE)
• The pet who will eat the food is with you at the POE

Are there different requirements for service animals?

A service dog must be accompanied by its designated handler (the person to whom the dog is assigned), and you’ll need documentation to support that the canine is trained and certified as an assistance animal by an organization accredited by Assistance Dogs International or the International Guide Dog Federation.

Can I bring exotic pets to Canada?

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency sets the standards for importing animals into the country. You can learn more about the requirements for specific pets on the CFIA website. 

Importing pets into the United States

If you’re moving from Canada to the continental U.S. with your pets, you must meet many of the same regulations to move in the other direction. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) specifies these requirements for importing pets into the United States:  

Dogs

All dogs (including puppies and service animals) must be healthy and have a valid rabies vaccination certificate dated at least 30 days before entry. Because puppies can’t receive the immunization before 3 months of age, they must be at least 4 months old before they can cross the border. If your dog is older than 15 months and their shot has expired, they only need to receive the booster vaccination and do not have to wait 30 days to enter.

When you reach the border, make sure you have a current rabies vaccination certificate that includes: 

• Your name and address
• The dog’s breed, sex, color, unique markings, etc.
• The date the vaccination was given, and its expiration
• The vaccine’s product information
• The name, license number, address and signature of the vet who administered the shot

There are additional requirements for importing dogs intended for sale or adoption.

Cats 

The CDC does not require proof of rabies vaccinations for cats entering the country. However, some airlines and states do, so it’s a good idea to check with them before traveling. Keep in mind that a border patrol officer may inspect your cat at the POE. They have the power to deny it entry if it has evidence of an infectious disease. 

Restrictions

Not all animals are eligible to enter the United States, including reptiles of African origin or species that may have lived in areas with a history of foot-and-mouth disease. Contact the CDC with questions.

The U.S. does not prohibit specific dog breeds from entering the country; however, some states or towns may have restrictions. Be sure to research your area thoroughly before relocating with your dog.

Learn more about importing dogs, cats and other animals into the U.S. from the CDC. 

Special requirements for Hawaii 

If you’re moving from Canada to Hawaii with your dog or cat, there are a few extra steps and requirements you’ll need to follow. Read more about relocating to Hawaii with your pets.  

Ready to move to Canada with your pets?

U-Pack can help with your long-distance move to or from Canada. Let U-Pack transport your things so you can focus on traveling and keeping your pets comfortable during the journey. 

Request your free quote online or call 844-362-5303844-594-3077 to speak to a moving consultant. If you have any questions about relocating your pets to Canada or would like to learn more about how U-Pack works, please don't hesitate to let us know.