Flying with Your Dog on Plane to Canada: Here's What You Must Know

Traveling with a four-legged friend can be an exciting experience because then you don't have to live far away from them.

When moving to a new country, like Canada, far from your home and city, having your furry friend by your side can bring a comforting, homely feeling even in an unfamiliar place.

But the point is, how can you take your pet along with you? Since a lot of information is available on the internet, we will provide you with some essential tips that can guide you on how to travel with a dog on a plane.

Let's get started!

What to Know When Moving with Your Pet to Canada?

Taking your furry friend on a flight can feel like an overwhelming experience. You might not know how to deal with paperwork, do preparation, or find the best pet relocation services.

So here's everything you need to know about dog flights that can make your and your pet's journey smooth and stress-free. 

I. Check the Airline Policies:

Since every airline is different, their policies are also different. Certain airlines permit small dogs to travel in the cabin, but they typically have specific regulations concerning the dog's size, weight, and the crate's dimensions. In contrast, larger dogs must be transported in the cargo section.

You must also note that dogs under 20 pounds can fly in the cabin. At the same time, larger dogs must fly in a climate-controlled cargo hold. 

II. Prepare Your Documentation:

The next thing you need to do is ensure that you have the following documents:

• Rabies Vaccination Certificate: In Canada, all dogs older than three months must receive a rabies vaccination. Verify that the immunization certificate is current and includes your dog's breed, age, and description.
• Health Certificate: Obtaining a health certificate from your veterinarian is a brilliant idea, even though it's optional for Canada. This document attests to your dog's good health and suitability for flight.
• Identity Tag and Microchip: While not required, it is strongly recommended that dogs wear collars with identity tags and, preferably, microchips.

III. Choose a Crate:

After preparing all the documents, you can now select a temporary home for your pet. When taking your dog in the cabin, verify the airline's size requirements for carry-on crates, ensuring they fit under the seat. For cargo hold travel, select a hard-sided crate that meets airline regulations and provides sufficient space for your dog to stand, turn around, and lie comfortably.

IV. Hire the Pet Relocation Services:

An expert pet moving service organizes everything concerning the travel of your pet. Most pet relocation companies specialize in pet travel, undertaking all the works entailed-from choosing crates to completing paperwork and consulting with airlines. This service can be particularly helpful during complicated moves or if you are looking for reassurance.

V. Plan for Your Dog’s Comfort:

Dogs can get nervous as soon as they board the plane, so you must try to keep them as calm as possible. You can take your pet for a walk before boarding the flight, which can help them relax during the travel. You must also take care of their meals by avoiding a large meal before travel and keeping them as hydrated as possible. 

VI. Arrive Early for the Dog’s Security Screening:

When traveling with a dog, arriving at the airport well in advance is essential. Airlines typically ask for pets to be checked several hours before departure. Your dog will also likely need to go through security, which involves removing it from the crate to pass through the scanner while it is examined. Throughout this process, remain calm and patient, as it may be new and somewhat stressful for your pet.

VII. Understand Canada’s Rules and Regulations:

Canada mainly welcomes pets, but you must familiarize yourself with the local pet laws and customs to move there permanently. For instance, some provinces restrict certain breeds, such as pit bulls. Knowing these rules will help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for your dog in Canada.

Final Thoughts

We hope that after reading this blog post, you will not think that traveling with your pet can be an overwhelming experience. With the right tips and planning, everything can become easy, even taking your dog on the plane!

So, what's stopping you from boarding the flight with your pet?