For countless pet parents in the United States and Canada, their furry sidekicks are cherished family members. So, when they take trips, theyâre bringing their precious pets along with them. Yet, when it comes to taking these beloved companions on cross-border trips, a few extra considerations are in order.
The good news is that prepping for trips between the United States and Canada with your four-legged family members doesn’t have to be overwhelming.
When traveling by car across the U.S.-Canada border with your pets, sticking to some basic rules is key. Bringing your dogs and cats across the border can be hassle-free with a little bit of advanced planning.
istock/Anna-av
Essential guidelines for traveling with pets
For dogs and cats preparing to cross the border between the United States and Canada, a valid rabies vaccination is required. Pets without prior rabies immunization must receive their vaccination at least 30 days before arrival. Proof of rabies vaccination is necessary for all pets aged 3 months or older. Rabies documentation must include specifics such as the vaccine’s product name, lot number, and expiration date. Please note that rabies vaccination tags affixed to pet collars do not suffice as proof of immunization.
People are also reading…
Puppies and kittens under three months old, who are too young for vaccination, require a veterinarian’s certificate affirming their good health for smooth border crossing.
Additionally, for all pets, regardless of age, obtaining a health certificate from your veterinarian dated within 30 days of border crossing will ensure that your pet meets the requirements for crossing the border smoothly.
Please be aware that these guidelines are for pet parents traveling for personal reasons with their pets. Traveling with pets across the border for commercial reasons (such as sale, breeding, foster, etc.) may have additional guidelines.
Travelers crossing into Ontario should be aware that sadly, Bully Breeds are prohibited from entry.
Plan ahead for your arrival
One more thing you’ll want to plan ahead of time is securing pet-friendly accommodations – you’ll need to do that well in advance to ensure youâll have a place to stay that will welcome your pet and check all your boxes. Here are some pet-friendly hotel options in three of the busiest United States – Canada border crossing cities:
Peace Bridge/Rainbow Bridge Border Crossings
Find pet-friendly hotels in these border cities:
Peace Arch/Pacific Highway Border Crossings
Find pet-friendly hotels in these border cities:
Ambassador Bridge Border Crossing
Find pet-friendly hotels in these border cities:
With some thoughtful planning, you can ensure a stress-free border crossing for you and your pets. By anticipating and addressing potential challenges, you’ll embark on your journey with confidence, knowing you’ve taken steps to ensure their safety and comfort.
5 essentials to keep your dog warm on winter walks
1. Spark Paws Flex Shell Water-resistant Dog Boots
These flexible water-resistant dog booties from Spark Paws will keep your dogâs feet warm on snowy winter days. They also help protect from road salt, which can irritate your dogâs paws. These boots are durable enough to stand up to sharp terrain, so you can keep your dogâs feet safe on hikes too.
Buy it here: Spark Paws Flex Shell Water-resistant Dog Boots, $45
2. Hurtta Expedition Parka Winter Dog Coat
If youâre looking for a heavy-duty dog coat that will withstand freezing winter temperatures and hold up on hikes, try the Hurtta parka. The coat allows for an extended range of motion so your dog can freely run and play while staying warm. Reflective piping adds extra visibility in the dark.
Buy it here: Hurtta Expedition Parka Winter Dog Coat, $68 to $88
3. Little Beast The Pablo Fleece Onesie
This adorable fleece onesie will keep your dog cozy throughout the winter, whether theyâre curled up by the fire at home or on a morning walk. The cozy fleece comes in four colors: blue, green, brown, and ivory.
Buy it here: Little Beast The Pablo Fleece Onesie, $50
4. FUAMEY Dog Coat with Built-in Harness
Grappling with your dogâs harness under a winter coat is half the struggle of putting one on. This cute and cozy winter coat for dogs has a built-in harness so you can quickly get out the door and on your W-A-L-K. The reflective neckband also gives you more visibility in the dark.
Buy it here: FUAMEY Dog Coat with Built-in Harness, $35
5. AnniePaw Suspender Dog Shoes
If your dog loves to immediately tear off boots and treat them like new toys, these suspender-style dog shoes will help keep your pupâs paws warm all winter. The adjustable and secure strap allows you to fit the boots precisely to your dog so theyâre not too tight or loose.
Buy it here: AnniePaw Suspender Dog Shoes, $25
About TripsWithPets
TripsWithPets is the go-to platform for booking pet-friendly accommodations, offering convenient online reservations across the United States and Canada. Pet parents turn to TripsWithPets.com for comprehensive resources on finding and booking the perfect pet-friendly accommodations, featuring detailed, up-to-date information on hotel pet policies and amenities.
As dedicated animal advocates, TripsWithPets actively supports local and national 501(c)(3) animal welfare organizations through their annual Partners for Animal Welfare Series (PAWS). This initiative raises crucial funds for the rescue, rehabilitation, and placement of animals in loving homes. Every booking made through TripsWithPets contributes directly to the PAWS initiative, making a tangible difference in the well-being of countless furry friends.
