Bringing a dog or cat from the USA to Canada in 2026: rules and timeline

There is no waiting period on this route.

Minimum from scratch: no wait
If already vaccinated: no wait
Quarantine: None for pets that meet the rules
Last checked: 3 November 2026

Steps, in order

Start nowRabies vaccine certificate in English or French with vaccine name and serial number (pets 3 months and older)

Documents

Rabies vaccination recordVet, in the pet passport or vaccination card

Get the dated plan for your trip. Pick your pet and travel date and see every deadline from today.

Plan this trip

Questions about this route

How long does it take to bring a dog or cat from the USA to Canada?

There is no waiting period on this route.

Which documents do I need from the USA to Canada?

Rabies vaccination record (vet, in the pet passport or vaccination card).

Is a rabies blood test needed?

No, the rules for this route have no blood test.

Is a microchip needed?

The rules for this route do not require one, but your airline may.

Will my pet be quarantined?

No, if every document is in order.

Good to know

No microchip, no waiting period and no quarantine for personal pets.

Sources

inspection.canada.caofficial source

Confidence. High: every rule confirmed on an official page.

Last checked 3 November 2026. Your vet, the airline and the border authority have the final word. Rules change: check the official pages again before you fly.