International pet travel requires advance planning, accurate documentation, and strict timelines. Requirements vary by destination and can change without notice. While we are happy to assist with documentation and guidance, ultimate responsibility for meeting entry requirements rests with the pet owner. This page is intended to help you understand the basic steps involved and when to contact our clinic to get started.
International Travel with your Pet
Do you offer assistance with international travel paperwork?
Yes. We offer a Pet Travel Documentation Service, which includes:
- Our guidance and expertise with international pet travel requirements
- Review of vaccination and microchip records
- Completion of required veterinary certificates
- Assistance with appointment timing for both our clinic and the CFIA
We recommend contacting our clinic as early as possible, ideally months before travel, to avoid last-minute delays.
Please note: A documentation fee applies, and a separate exam fee is required.
What documents are typically required for international pet travel?
While requirements vary by country, most international travel (including the European Union) requires:
- A ISO-compatible microchip
- A valid rabies vaccination meeting destination timing rules
- An official Veterinary Certificate completed by an accredited veterinarian
- Endorsement of documents by the CFIA (Canadian Food Inspection Agency)
- Tapeworm deworming (Echinococcus multilocularis) for dogs, when required
Please note: Additional testing or treatments may be required depending on the destination.
Does my pet need a microchip?
Yes. A microchip is mandatory for most international travel, including entry into the European Union. Important microchip rules:
- The microchip must be implanted before the rabies vaccination
- The microchip number must appear on the rabies certificate
- If your pet is re-microchipped for any reason, the new chip becomes the official ID, and a new primary rabies vaccination (with a 21-day waiting period) is required
What are the rabies vaccination requirements for international travel?
Rabies rules are strict and timing is critical. We strongly recommend confirming rabies validity well in advance of booking travel.
For EU travel:
- Your pet must be microchipped before receiving the rabies vaccine
- A primary rabies vaccination requires a 21-day waiting period before travel
- Rabies boosters are valid immediately only if given before the previous vaccine expires
Will my dog need tapeworm treatment?
Many countries require dogs to receive Echinococcus multilocularis (tapeworm) treatment. Requirements vary by country, so timing is critical.
- Must be administered by a veterinarian (not at home)
- Must be given using praziquantel (or equivalent)
- Typically administered 1–5 days (24–120 hours) before entry
- Must be documented in the Veterinary Certificate
What is the Veterinary Certificate and who completes it?
The Veterinary Certificate is an official government form required for international travel.
- Forms must be printed from the CFIA website
{INSERT BUTTON: “CFIA Pet Export Forms”}
https://inspection.canada.ca/en/animal-health/terrestrial-animals/exports/pets/eu-non-commercial
- The certificate must be completed by our clinic – please do not fill out the forms yourself
- Certificates are usually valid for 5–10 days before entry, depending on the destination
- Forms should be printed on legal-size paper (8.5” x 14”) whenever possible
- Forms must be dropped off to the clinic at least 7 days prior to your CFIA appointment
What is a CFIA endorsement appointment?
After we complete your pet’s veterinary certificate, it must be endorsed by the CFIA.
- The appointment must be within 10 days of travel (some destinations require less)
- Appointments should be booked in advance
Please bring:
- Original rabies certificate
- Completed Veterinary Certificate
- Microchip information (if available)
- Proof of travel (if available)
Are there additional country-specific requirements?
Yes. Some countries have additional rules, such as:
- Rabies antibody titre testing – can take 6–8 weeks, so early planning is essential.
- Extended waiting periods
Please note: Pet owners are responsible for confirming import requirements with the consulate or embassy of their destination country, as rules can change without notice.
Do airlines have their own pet travel requirements?
Yes. Always confirm airline requirements directly before booking travel. Each airline sets its own rules regarding:
- In-cabin vs cargo travel
- Carrier size and materials
- Temperature or seasonal restrictions
How far in advance should I contact the clinic?
As early as possible. Some travel requirements take months to complete. Early contact allows us to:
- Avoid last-minute delays
- Ensure vaccinations are valid
- Schedule appointments appropriately
Useful Links to Guide Your Research:
https://inspection.canada.ca/en/animal-health/terrestrial-animals/exports/pets/eu-non-commercial
CFIA – Exporting Pets to the EU
https://travel.gc.ca/travelling/health-safety/pets
Government of Canada – Traveling with Animals
https://www.aircanada.com/ca/en/aco/home/plan/special-assistance/pets.html#/
Air Canada – Traveling with Your Pet
