Using the term ‘importing’ for pets may seem insensitive, but bringing animals into a country can be called that, speaking strictly with regards to rules. There could be many reasons why you may want to bring a pet/dog into Canada. From traveling between countries, to acquiring a new breed from another country, importing is often necessary. Ideally, it is best to get in touch with a customs broker, such as Clearit Canada importing, who can explain all the processes involved. Here are the basics at a glance.
Knowing the process
The pet, a dog in this case, will be first examined visually in both the countries. Entry can be refused if the dog seems infected, diseased, and in some cases, an additional inspection may be demanded, for which the costs has been incurred by the owner. If the dog is not kept well, looks like he has been abused, neglected, the animal can be kept at the border. Do not travel with your pet if you don’t think that the animal is in a good shape and physical health.
Importing dogs to Canada
The first step is to understand if the dog will be brought into Canada for personal or commercial reasons. Pets are considered to be personal imports and need not have an import permit. Dogs are required to be vaccinated, and the vaccination certificate will be asked for at the border. If your dog is a small puppy of less than three months, you don’t need to have the vaccination certificate but a proof of age is essential. Service dogs don’t need vaccination certificates either, as long as the person traveling with the dog or vice versa is around, and all the necessary documents are sufficed. If you want to travel with your dog and don’t have the vaccination certificate, do that within two weeks before traveling. Paperwork for importing your dog must be best prepared in advance.
Commercial dog imports
If you are getting a dog into Canada with the intention of adoption, resale or breeding, you will have to treat it as a commercial import. Besides the vaccination certificates, a certificate of health is required, and the dog must be chipped. Import permit is also required, which must be obtained 30 days before coming to the Canadian border. The permit is not required for pups below 8 months, subject to a few rules and regulations.
Animal ownership laws can vary in certain states, so ask in advance.