Whether relocating or taking a road trip, crossing the US-Canada border with your pet requires careful preparation. To ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience, it's important to familiarize yourself with the requirements for pet travel across the border. Let's explore the key steps to successfully driving across the US-Canada border with your beloved pet.
Here's what you need to have and to know to cross the Canadian border with a pet:
Rabies Vaccine Certificate: Bring an original Rabies vaccine certificate for your pet. This document must include vaccine details, the pet's microchip number, and the administering veterinarian's signature.
International Health Certificate: Obtain an International Health Certificate within 10 days of departure. This certificate verifies your pet's health status and must be issued by a licensed veterinarian.
USDA Endorsement: Depending on the location, you may need to contact your local USDA office to have the health certificate endorsed. Different USDA offices may have varying preferences, so confirming this requirement is essential.
Be Well-Prepared: Border experiences can vary, with some agents being stricter than others. Ensure you have all necessary documents and anticipate potential questions about your pet's travel.
Safe Transportation: Follow best practices for transporting pets by car. Keep your pet securely buckled, pack extra supplies, and provide plenty of water for hydration.
As you embark on your journey with your pet, remember that careful planning is key to a successful border crossing. Have all documents ready and be prepared for any inquiries from border agents. You and your pet can enjoy a seamless and memorable adventure across the US-Canada border with the right approach.
Contact PetRelocation with any more questions about driving pets to Canada. We're happy to help!
Editor's Note: This post was originally published in May 2012 and has been updated with new information. Photo by meddygarnet via Flickr