Do you have a pet? Find out all the details about immigrating to Quebec with a pet here!
Immigrating with a pet to Canada requires a series of precautions and requirements that you need to fulfill, but it is perfectly possible to move to Quebec with your pet. Read this post and then watch the interview we did with one of our teachers who lives in Quebec and immigrated here with her pets.
First of all, if you intend to take a pet to live in another country with you, you need to consider this from the very beginning of your planning. That’s because you’ll need to invest time and money to make this dream come true.
There are also bureaucratic obstacles to overcome. But don’t worry! In this post, you’ll find out all the steps you need to take to immigrate to Quebec with your pet. Check it out!
Note: as most people who intend to immigrate with a pet have cats or dogs, this text provides more details about this condition. However, if you want information about other animals, just check the requirements on the websites of the airlines, the Brazilian Ministry of Agriculture and the Canadian government.
Traveling with animals to Quebec
Even on national flights, traveling with pets requires planning. Each airline has specific rules on the subject. Not checking these details in advance can turn your trip into a real nightmare!
There are two ways to do this: on a commercial flight, with you in the cabin or in the hold (depending on the breed and weight of the animal), or by an air transport company specializing in live cargo.
One of the first things to do is to check whether the company limits the number of animals per flight. If so, make sure you make a reservation for your pet – but beware: most companies only accept pet reservations over the phone.
Also, check the conditions of transportation for each category of animal, such as the maximum weight allowed to take your furry friend on board.
Most airlines allow cats and dogs weighing up to 18 lb (8.16 kg) inside the aircraft cabin, provided they are properly housed in a transport box. Larger animals may only travel in the cargo hold.
Another interesting aspect is that, in special circumstances, some companies allow large animals to travel with their owners. This is the case for guide dogs or emotional support pets – both of which will need a medical report proving the condition.
Documentation required to immigrate to Quebec with a pet
The documentation required to immigrate to Quebec with a pet is the point that deserves your attention the most! Canada requires that the animal has had its rabies vaccination up to date, i.e. within the last 12 months.
The rabies vaccination certificate must be in English or French. This document must contain the following information: the commercial name of the vaccine, the batch number, the veterinarian’s signature and the date of application.
In addition, it is required to present the animal’s health certificate and health history issued by the Brazilian veterinary authorities and accepted by Canada.
This document must include your full details (name, address in Brazil, valid document and contact telephone number), your pet’s details (name, species, breed, color, coat type, sex, etc.), the date of the appointment and the veterinarian’s signature with a legible stamp.
This certificate will be presented at a Vigiagro unit so that the International Veterinary Certificate (CVI), also known as the International Animal Health Certificate (CZI), can be issued.
Therefore, the health certificate must be submitted within 10 days of departure. That’s why you need to plan your dates carefully. It’s worth noting that you can apply for the CVI free of charge and there’s no need to take the animal to the Vigiagro office.
Arriving in Canada with your pet
Canada doesn’t require animals to be quarantined, so you don’t need to tell the Canadian airport in advance that you have an animal, as there is always an inspector responsible for pets on hand. A pedigree certificate is also not required.
When you enter the country, your pet must pass an inspection, carried out by the Agence des services frontaliers du Canada (ASFC) . At the inspection, the officer will look at all the animal’s documents and check that the pet has no apparent signs of illness.
When it comes to feeding your pet, health requirements must also be carefully observed. As a security measure, the Canadian government only allows personal imports of dog and cat food from the United States. So if that’s not the case, don’t risk it.
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Now that you know all the precautions you need to take to immigrate to Quebec with a pet. Our extra tip is: let your pet become familiar with the crate before the trip by placing it around your home in places it can access and enter without being forced.
This makes it much less stressful when they have to get into the crate to travel. When you arrive in the province, take the opportunity to take your pet for a walk! Quebecers love parks and dogs are always very welcome, including those without a defined breed.
Did you like these tips? Here on the École Québec blog, you can find more information on how to start a new phase of your life in Canada. Explore!
