Making sense of pet travel requirements from Chile to Canada

Name: Shawn A.
Number of Pets: 1
Pet Type: Dog
Pet Breed: Mixed
From: Chile
To: Toronto, Canada

Hi. I'm trying to adopt a street dog that I met in Chile three weeks ago and bring him back to Toronto, Canada on Air Canada with me. I'm getting conflicting information about what is required. I've contacted Canada's Border Patrol and Food and Drug Administration... It specifies that there is no waiting period between the rabies vaccination and the time the animal can enter Canada. The airline requires a health certificate stating that the dog is healthy and well enough to fly. The Canadian embassy in Chile has advised me that the vaccination must be given at least 30 days prior to leaving Chile and that SAG export forms are required as well. What is the correct information? Thanks, -Shawn

Hi Shawn,

Thanks for your question and congratulations on the new dog! Take a look at our site for a rundown of the Canada Import Requirements. In short, the rabies vaccination should be administered at least 30 days before departure and you'll need to obtain a health certificate as well as a few other documents.

Good luck with your trip, and please contact us if you'd like some help orchestrating your move to Canada!