Canada's rules for pet dogs and cats arriving from the United States are simpler than many other countries' rules, but the details matter. The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) sets the requirements and the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) checks them at the border. Always confirm current rules on the CFIA's pet import page before travel.
Dogs and cats three months and older
The core requirement is a valid rabies vaccination certificate. It should be in English or French, issued by a licensed veterinarian, and identify the animal (breed, colour, weight, etc.). It should also state the vaccine's name, serial or lot number, the date given and how long it's valid.
Keep the original certificate with the pet, not packed in a moving box.
Kittens and puppies under three months
Very young animals aren't required to have a rabies vaccine, but the owner may need to be ready to show the animal's age on request.
Dogs under eight months travelling without the owner
This is where many moves get complicated. Young dogs imported for commercial purposes (resale, breeding, adoption through a rescue) face stricter requirements, including import permits and microchips. Personal pets under eight months that arrive without their owner may also need extra documents, such as a veterinary health certificate. Check the CFIA's requirements for your specific situation before booking.
Assistance dogs
Certified assistance dogs have their own rules. Carry the relevant documents.
Inspection at the border
Border officers may inspect your pet. The animal should look healthy. Pets showing signs of illness can be referred for further examination at the owner's expense.
Don't forget the U.S. side
If your dog is leaving the U.S. and might come back, remember that the U.S. now requires a CDC Dog Import Form receipt, a microchip and a minimum age of six months for dogs entering the country. We explain those rules in our article on the CDC Dog Import Form.
Other pets
Birds, rabbits, rodents and reptiles have their own Canadian import conditions, and some change with disease outbreaks. Check the CFIA's Automated Import Reference System (AIRS) for your species.
How we help
For every cross-border trip, 4Paws Movers reviews your pet's rabies certificate and other documents before we leave, and carries copies for the crossing. The Border Crossing fee on your quote covers this paperwork work plus the time at the port of entry. See Fees Explained and our cross-border page, or get a quote.
Planning a move with your pet?
4Paws Movers offers dedicated, climate-controlled ground transport across Ontario and cross-border into the U.S., plus airport cargo drop-off. Every fee is published.