Bringing a dog to Canada on plane

[Aniabella]

Hello,

Just thought if someone here would have experience with this. I'm flying with my Canadian husband to Canada in August and we're going to bring our dog with us overseas. However, I'm quite concerned (and probably a bit paranoid) about the whole thing as we never flew with a dog before and especially to another country. I don't have my PR yet, and most likely won't by the time we're flying.

Firstly, should the dog be under my husband's name or does it matter? Or would the customs think that I'm staying to live and won't let me in the country as I won't have my PR yet? I'll be bringing only two suitcases with me besides the dog.

Secondly, I read that all the dog needs is a proof of rabies vaccination (we have a EU pet passport) and also some kind of certificate from the authorities here stating the dog has stayed in the country for last 6 months and that my country is rabies free. Is that it and how strictly do they look at the papers? Any experience?

Thirdly, more general kind of issue... My dog is quite emotional and can cry a lot. She'll be traveling in the cargo hold since she's not small enough. Could they refuse taking her on the plane because of this? Any hints on how to calm/prepare a sensitive dog for a flight? Do they let the dogs to their owners between lay-over?

This dog issue is almost what stresses us most about moving to Canada, so any experience you can share is very appreciated!

 

[zardoz]

Talk to your vet. This is the best option. They will probably need to be involved in the paperwork anyway and they can provide medication for the dog for the flight. My vet was even prepared to try a test run on my dog with the medication to confirm that it was suitable. My dog passed away before we had an opportunity to do this however, so this is something that we never tried.
Be aware that not all dogs do well on long flights. Your vet will advise you based on your individual dog.

 

[Avadava]

I've traveled with pets on airplanes all my life and I also am planning to bring my two pets to Canada, so I can give you some info based on experience and research.

1. Make sure when you book your flight to call the airline company and ask to bring the dog with you. They charge extra for that, and if you don't pay it at the time of booking you won't be allowed to bring your dog with you. Look up on the company page what their policy is for pets. Some airline companies either don't allow them at all or they have strict requirements (the transport box must have certain dimensions - the pet must be able to stand up inside it without touching the roof; the box/cage must be waterproof, etc.)

2. You can bring a dog into Canada under these conditions: http://inspection.gc.ca/animals/terrestrial-animals/imports/policies/live-animals/pets/dogs/eng/1331876172009/1331876307796

Keep in mind that even if you don't have the necessary papers, they will still allow your pet to enter. It will be assessed (health inspection) by a border officer and you will have to pay a $30 fee for this. Also, you will be asked to get the rabies shot within a certain amount of time after landing (in Canada, within 2 weeks I think).

"If a dog does not meet the Canadian rabies import requirements, owners will be required, at their own expense, to:

have the animal vaccinated against rabies within a specified period of time; and
provide the vaccination record to a Canadian Food Inspection Agency office."

3. It is important that the dog is accompanied by the owner in your situation. The customs won't think you are there to stay, because you are allowed to bring your pet with you when visiting. I've traveled with my pets to many countries and I was never suspected of not being a genuine visitor because of it. Lots of people prefer to bring their pets with them on vacation (including me) rather than have them stay at a "pet hotel".

4. Tell your vet that you will be taking your pet to Canada. He/she will be able to tell you where you need to go for the proper certification (keep in mind that a European Union pet passport is enough to meet the requirements - since the rabies vaccine is documented in those passports). Pets entering Canada are not required to have a microchip. Also, if you are planning to drug your dog for the flight, don't. Airline companies could refuse your dog based on this. They usually specify that the animal must be able to respond when it's called. They won't accept pets that are drugged. Because when a pet is drugged, their heart rate slows down really bad and because of the altitude, small animals can die (and the airline companies don't want to get into law suits).

I have a cat who is very scared in general. But she traveled with no problems. I once took her on a road trip to Italy (15 hours drive) and she was fine. Those kind of animals are usually scared in the first hour or so, but then they calm down (no need for drugs). Make sure you bring a blanket from home (so they have a familiar scent). My dog has been in an airplane when she was 5 months old the first time. She was scared and drooling excessively for the first 15-20 mins, then she fell asleep.

 

[Hasan9999]

I've traveled with pets on airplanes all my life and I also am planning to bring my two pets to Canada, so I can give you some info based on experience and research.

1. Make sure when you book your flight to call the airline company and ask to bring the dog with you. They charge extra for that, and if you don't pay it at the time of booking you won't be allowed to bring your dog with you. Look up on the company page what their policy is for pets. Some airline companies either don't allow them at all or they have strict requirements (the transport box must have certain dimensions - the pet must be able to stand up inside it without touching the roof; the box/cage must be waterproof, etc.)

2. You can bring a dog into Canada under these conditions: http://inspection.gc.ca/animals/terrestrial-animals/imports/policies/live-animals/pets/dogs/eng/1331876172009/1331876307796

Keep in mind that even if you don't have the necessary papers, they will still allow your pet to enter. It will be assessed (health inspection) by a border officer and you will have to pay a $30 fee for this. Also, you will be asked to get the rabies shot within a certain amount of time after landing (in Canada, within 2 weeks I think).

"If a dog does not meet the Canadian rabies import requirements, owners will be required, at their own expense, to:

have the animal vaccinated against rabies within a specified period of time; and
provide the vaccination record to a Canadian Food Inspection Agency office."

3. It is important that the dog is accompanied by the owner in your situation. The customs won't think you are there to stay, because you are allowed to bring your pet with you when visiting. I've traveled with my pets to many countries and I was never suspected of not being a genuine visitor because of it. Lot's of people prefer to bring their pets with them on vacation (including me) rather than have them stay at a "pet hotel".

4. Tell your vet that you will be taking your pet to Canada. He/she will be able to tell you where you need to go for the proper certification (keep in mind that a European Union pet passport is enough to meet the requirements - since the rabies vaccine is documented in those passports). Pets entering Canada are not required to have a microchip. Also, if you are planning to drug your dog for the flight, don't. Airline companies could refuse your dog based on this. They usually specify that the animal must be able to respond when it's called. They won't accept pets that are drugged. Because when a pet is drugged, their hearth rate slows down really bad and because of the altitude, small animals can die (and the airline companies don't want to get into law suits).

I have a cat who is very scared in general. But she traveled with no problems. I once took her on a road trip to Italy (15 hours drive) and she was fine. Those kind of animals are usually scared in the first hour or so, but then they calm down (no need for drugs). Make sure you bring a blanket from home (so they have a familiar smell). My dog has been in an airplane when she was 5 months old the first time. She was scared and drooling excessively for the first 15-20 mins, then she fell asleep.

VERY INTERESTING AND INFORMATIVE. IT'S FROM THE HORSE'S MOUTH! THANK YOU.

 

[bartjones]

My wife and I were in the same situation last year. We brought our dog from South Korea to Canada on the plane before she had PR. As an earlier poster said, all you need is the rabies certificate in English and signed by your vet.

When we arrived we were directed to the secondary inspection area by CBSA. The CBSA officer examined the dog generally to make sure it wasn't sick and took a copy of the rabies certificate. That was it. It was easy.

I would avoid giving the dog any kind of sedative if you can. It's just not good for the animal. Throw something in the kennel that belongs to you and your husband like an old t-shirt. I've read many times that if the dog can smell you while it's in flight it calms the animal down.

We had an 11.5 hour flight and our pooch was small enough to be allowed under our seat in the cabin. We were also very worried about how she'd handle the flight. She slept the whole way and never made a sound. It was pretty surprising. So, don't worry about it too much, you'll be fine.

 

[Aniabella]

Thnx a lot zardoz, bartjones and Avadava!

You really made good points there and good to hear someone's experience about this, really puts me at ease. We have EU pet passport and our dog's rabies vaccination is valid until 2016.

I did a lot of research on airlines and decided to go on Lufthansa, since they seem to not have problems to take pets on plane and well, there's not so many choices leaving from Finland! I'm a bit worried about the lay-over, but apparently it shouldn't be difficult to pass through Germany since we have the EU pet passport. I guess it should be better to book it through their phone ticket service to ensure space for the dog, I'm just worried if it costs more. Such a juggle to do both flights with just one airline company, which is ok with pets and no specific restrictions.

 

[taffy7]

Just a few things to add.When having a lay over make sure when you book the connecting flight they will take pets as cargo.Some airports for example Amsterdam has a facility for animals .the dogs their gets to get out of their grate and gets to have a walk,water and able to rest before getting on the next flight. Research the airport you are going from and it will give you all the information if you can visit your pet in between flight.

 

[Avadava]

Thnx a lot zardoz, bartjones and Avadava!

You really made good points there and good to hear someone's experience about this, really puts me at ease. We have EU pet passport and our dog's rabies vaccination is valid until 2016.

I did a lot of research on airlines and decided to go on Lufthansa, since they seem to not have problems to take pets on plane and well, there's not so many choices leaving from Finland! I'm a bit worried about the lay-over, but apparently it shouldn't be difficult to pass through Germany since we have the EU pet passport. I guess it should be better to book it through their phone ticket service to ensure space for the dog, I'm just worried if it costs more. Such a juggle to do both flights with just one airline company, which is ok with pets and no specific restrictions.

If you have a EU passport, then you don't need anything else. On the website they say:

Dogs may enter Canada if they are accompanied by rabies certification, which means they must have:

a rabies vaccination certificate OR a veterinary certificate.

The European Union pet passport is an acceptable alternative to the rabies vaccination certificate as long as all the required elements outlined below are included.

As far as the costs go, I think you will have to pay around €150 extra for the dog. You must book your ticket by telephone (they will tell you to book the flight first and then call them back to add the pet to your ticket - will charge you later for that).

I don't know much about layovers. I've always tried to book a direct flight when traveling with pets. But I'm sure the airline company can give you more info on that.


Take a look here at Lufthansa policy on pets: http://www.lufthansa.com/de/en/Animals
Click on "Larger animals in the cargo hold", it will open a PDF with very useful info. (http://www.lufthansa.com/mediapool/pdf/05/media_786805305.pdf)


Here is what I found on layovers with pets: "Unless you absolutely have no choice, take only direct flights. If you must change airlines, be sure you can collect and then re-check your dog at the layover airport as airlines do not interline live cargo. Try to give yourself a long enough layover to take him out for a walk or checkout the airport dog relief area."

Read more tips here: http://www.pettravel.com/0001216.cfm

I understand your worry. Every time I travel with my pets, I'm more worried about them than anything else. Be strong, keep calm and make sure you have everything under control. I wish you and your furry baby a safe and uneventful trip!

 

[Aniabella]

Well thnx tafft7 and Avadava again!

We would have liked to have a direct flight, but unfortunately from here it's impossible. We booked our flight on Lufthansa and having layover in Frankfurt, where they apparently have an Animal Lounge! Just fingers crossed that they have space for our dog! I really feel much better now about taking our baby girl with us with all this help.

 

[boomlet]

I have a cat who is very scared in general. But she traveled with no problems. I once took her on a road trip to Italy (15 hours drive) and she was fine. Those kind of animals are usually scared in the first hour or so, but then they calm down (no need for drugs). Make sure you bring a blanket from home (so they have a familiar scent). My dog has been in an airplane when she was 5 months old the first time. She was scared and drooling excessively for the first 15-20 mins, then she fell asleep.

Avadava,

Can you tell me about your experience bringing your cat through airport security? I'll be flying with my cat from Boston to Seattle (no direct flights to Vancouver, thought this would be easier), and I'm expecting a full-blown furry freakout as he's semi-feral and not a good traveler.

I've read that you can request that the cat be taken out of the carrier in a secure room while they send it through the x-ray - do you know if this is true? I know that if I try to take him out in the x-ray area there is a good chance that someone will end up getting clawed during his frantic escape attempt.

Any advice/tips you have would be fantastic

 

[pumbaa_g]

Hi All, Thanks for your amazing inputs regarding the whole process. I would request you to share more about your experience and any issues that you face while bringing your pets to Canada or your stay here to help other animal lovers in this forum.
I have a 4 year old female lab that me and my wife want to bring along with us once we get the green light. However, I understand that finding accommodation which allows pets is a bit difficult in Canada. Our first choice for immigration was Canada as its much more pet friendly compared to other countries.

 

[Avadava]

Avadava,

Can you tell me about your experience bringing your cat through airport security? I'll be flying with my cat from Boston to Seattle (no direct flights to Vancouver, thought this would be easier), and I'm expecting a full-blown furry freakout as he's semi-feral and not a good traveler.

I've read that you can request that the cat be taken out of the carrier in a secure room while they send it through the x-ray - do you know if this is true? I know that if I try to take him out in the x-ray area there is a good chance that someone will end up getting clawed during his frantic escape attempt.

Any advice/tips you have would be fantastic

My first experience with my cat at the airport security was a bad one. I got clawed all over my arms and chest and then she jumped out of my hands. Luckily, the security officers and some people from the airport helped me catch her. It was a good lesson for me indeed.

I don't know about any secure room, but my vet told me to buy a cat leash (there are special ones for cats - something like this http://www.petco.com/product/106257/PetSafe-Gentle-Leader-Come-with-Me-Kitty-Harness-And-Bungee-Leash.aspx). Basically what I do is this: I put the harness on her at home before putting her in the transport box and I keep the leash in my purse. When it's time to take her out of the box for x-ray, I attach the leash to the harness and take the cat out. I have her stay on the floor while we go through security, this way she can't scratch anyone nor run away from me. I hope this helps.

Both my dog and my cat wear harnesses when travelling. It's very easy to take them out of the box by just attaching the leash right away to the harness. Animals get scared easily when in crowded and unknown places. Just make sure the harness is not too tight but not too loose either. You can check that by trying to put your index finger under the harness, if you finger slides through without too much effort but at the same time it creates light pressure on the finger, then the harness should be secured properly.

 

[boomlet]

My first experience with my cat at the airport security was a bad one. I got clawed all over my arms and chest and then she jumped out of my hands. Luckily, the security officers and some people from the airport helped me catch her. It was a good lesson for me indeed.

I don't know about any secure room, but my vet told me to buy a cat leash (there are special ones for cats - something like this http://www.petco.com/product/106257/PetSafe-Gentle-Leader-Come-with-Me-Kitty-Harness-And-Bungee-Leash.aspx). Basically what I do is this: I put the harness on her at home before putting her in the transport box and I keep the leash in my purse. When it's time to take her out of the box for x-ray, I attach the leash to the harness and take the cat out. I have her stay on the floor while we go through security, this way she can't scratch anyone nor run away from me. I hope this helps.

Both my dog and my cat wear harnesses when travelling. It's very easy to take them out of the box by just attaching the leash right away to the harness. Animals get scared easily when in crowded and unknown places. Just make sure the harness is not too tight but not too loose either. You can check that by trying to put your index finger under the harness, if you finger slides through without too much effort but at the same time it creates light pressure on the finger, then the harness should be secured properly.

Thanks so much for the detailed response -- though your first experience is my worst nightmare haha. I've looked into getting a harness for my cat... I"m not sure how he would react (probably not well!), but it might be the best option.

 

[taffy7]

Well thnx tafft7 and Avadava again!

We would have liked to have a direct flight, but unfortunately from here it's impossible. We booked our flight on Lufthansa and having layover in Frankfurt, where they apparently have an Animal Lounge! Just fingers crossed that they have space for our dog! I really feel much better now about taking our baby girl with us with all this help.

Is your layover in Schipol ?

 

[Avadava]

Is your layover in Schipol ?

She mentioned her layover is in Frankfurt (Germany), Schiphol if I'm not mistaken is in Amsterdam (the Netherlands).

Fraport (the Frankfurt airport) has a pet lounge: http://www.frankfurt-airport.com/content/frankfurt_airport/en/business_location/cargo_hub/animal_lounge.html