Pet Travel to Canada: the guidelines that people should follow. Whether relocating or traveling with your companion pet, there are some of the rules and regulations that you need to know from Canadian airlines. Understanding the rules and regulations from the Canadian government is crucial. Here is the guide on the proper pet importation and an overview of pet policy for the major Canadian airlines to make sure of the smooth journey. HappyLocate has seen a remarkable 80% growth in pet relocation leads to Canada, reflecting the rising demand for trusted, international pet transport services.

The Pet travel general consideration

Before booking the flight, check the pet size and breed restrictions—airlines often restrict snub-nosed dogs and cats due to their breathing issues at high altitudes

Cabin: If you are importing small pets under eight kg. You must bring a carrier into the cabin, as it’s one of the most important items. As you’ll need to keep it under the seat in front of you. The carrier must meet IATA standards, such as the pets should be able to stand up, turn around, and lie down safely. Carrier size expectation based on the size and flights

Cargo: If the pet is exceeding limits of the cabin or the airline doesn’t allow it, you must transport the pet in cargo. While the owners are afraid of the pets traveling in cargo, there are strict rules and regulations for the well-being of the pets.

Health Documentation

The vet must issue a valid health certificate confirming that the pet is fit to travel, as required by most airlines. While traveling to Canada, to ensure the safety of the animal on board. Veterinary certificate issued within ten days of travel that the pet is healthy and free from contagious diseases and fit to travel. A licensed veterinarian should sign the documents. Your pets must be up-to-date on vaccination, including the rabies vaccine and distemper, parvovirus, and bordetella for the dogs and FVRCP for the cats. A vet highly recommends a microchip for your pet’s safety. Attach an ID to your pet’s collar, including the owner’s name, address, and phone number.

Temperature restriction

Airlines will impose temperature restrictions to ensure pet safety, especially in cargo. Airlines implement measures to protect pets from extreme temperatures in airports and during flights. The extreme heat can lead to heatstroke and breathing difficulties for short-nosed breeds like pugs and bulldogs. Cold weather causes hypothermia or frostbite, especially for the short-haired, small pets. Airlines impose restrictions to protect pets from unsafe conditions while loading and unloading during the flight.

The different policies, according to the different airlines, that are imposed for pet travel

Air Canada: Air Canada allows cats and dogs to travel in the cabin, provided they fit in an airline-approved carrier below the seat. Fees may vary based on the destination but typically range from CAD 50 to CAD 100 per flight segment. The larger pets can travel in the cargo hold, and there are some breed restrictions—they don’t accept snub-nosed dogs.

WestJet: They offer both in-cabin and cargo options for pet travel. You can place the small pets under the seat in the cabin using an approved right carrier with fees ranging from CAD 50 to CAD 118 per flight. WestJet cargo service adjusts various services, so book early as seats fill up quickly.

Flair Airlines: They allow pets in the cabin domestically only; the pet carriers should be soft-sided and should be fitted under the seat. Although the plane does not allow the pets in the cargo.

Porter Airlines: This airline allows pets in the cabin. Small pets traveling in the cabin must fit in an airline-approved carrier. This airline does not usually allow pets in cargo, so large companions are not allowed on this airline.

Air Transat: Air Transat allows the smaller pets in the cabin and larger pets in cargo. This airline also allows pets in cargo, but they have seasonal restrictions, which we must confirm before the booking.

Must-Know Tips for a Happy Trip for pet travel

Airlines have a limited number of pet slots, so book as early as possible.

Choosing the right carrier that should be an IATA-approved carrier.

Let the pets spend the time inside the carrier to avoid the anxiousness while traveling.

Each airline has a restriction policy, so check the carrier before booking the flight.

Choose the right pet relocation service to import the pets because they have the ideas to ship the pets safely. HappyLocate provides the right pet shipping service.