Pet Travel Checklist for Canada2025

Planning a trip in Canada with your four-legged buddy? Whether you’re driving across the Rockies or flying from Toronto to Vancouver, traveling with pets in Canada is more than just packing a leash and a bowl. It’s about safety, comfort, and being prepared for anything—because let’s face it, pets are family.

Let’s break it down, human-to-human (and pet-approved).

📄 Documents You Actually Need When Travelling with Pets in Canada

Before you even zip the travel bag, you’ll need some paperwork in order. Yes, even for pets.

✅ Pet ID Tags & Microchip Info

Make sure your pet wears an updated ID tag with your contact info. Microchipping is strongly recommended (and often required if you’re crossing provincial or international borders).

✅ Vaccination Records

Always carry proof of up-to-date rabies and core vaccinations. Some airlines and hotels ask for it, and it’s a lifesaver in emergencies.

✅ Health Certificate (If Traveling by Air)

Flying with pets? Most airlines (like Air Canada and WestJet) will ask for a recent vet-issued health certificate—usually within 10 days of travel.

✅ Import Permit (If Coming from Outside Canada)

Coming in from abroad? You’ll need to check with the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) for pet import regulations. Different rules apply for dogs, cats, birds, etc.

🚗 Travel Mode: Not All Pets Are Born Frequent Flyers

✈️ Flying with Pets

Most Canadian airlines allow pets either in-cabin (small pets) or as cargo (larger ones). But every airline has its own rules.
👉 Tip: Book early—many airlines limit the number of pets per flight.

Air Canada Example:

• In-cabin: Only for small cats and dogs.
• Cargo: For medium/large breeds.
• Fees: Around $50–$120 per flight.

🚙 Road Trips

If your pet’s more of a road-tripper than a jet-setter, Canada’s scenic highways are perfect. Just plan stops every 2–3 hours for water, stretching, and potty breaks.
👉 Don’t forget to secure your pet using a car-safe harness or crate.

🚆 Trains or Public Transit

• VIA Rail: Allows small pets in carriers on certain routes.
• Public Transit (like TTC, TransLink): Generally allows pets in carriers during off-peak hours. Always check local rules.

🧳 What to Pack: The Ultimate Pet Packing List

Here’s the stuff you don’t want to forget (trust us—you’ll thank yourself later).

🥘 Food & Water

• Enough pet food for the whole trip (sudden brand changes can upset stomachs)
• Portable water bowl & refillable water bottle
• Treats—because good boys and girls deserve rewards

🛏️ Comfort Items

• Bed or blanket that smells like home
• Favorite toys for comfort and entertainment
• Travel crate or carrier (airline-approved if flying)

💊 Health & Medications

• Any regular meds (with instructions)
• Flea/tick protection
• Vet contact info (and a list of clinics near your destination)

💩 Clean-Up Kit: Be a Responsible Pet Parent

Canadians love pets—but not pet mess. Keep it clean, friends.

• Poop bags (lots of them)
• Pet wipes or towels
• Stain/odor remover (especially for hotel stays)
• Brush or comb (for those shedding moments)

❄️ Seasonal Prep: Because Canada = Weather Mood Swings

🧥 Winter

• Dog coat or sweater
• Booties for icy sidewalks
• Paw balm for salt protection

🌞 Summer

• Cooling vest or mat
• Collapsible water bowl
• NEVER leave pets in cars (even for a few minutes)

🏨 Accommodation Tips: Don’t Assume It’s Pet-Friendly

Not every hotel that says “pet-friendly” actually is. Some charge fees, restrict size/breeds, or allow only certain animals.

What to look for:

• Pet fees (flat rate or per night?)
• Rules on leaving pets alone in rooms
• Nearby parks or relief areas
• Emergency vet clinics in the area

👉 Pro Tip: Call ahead—always.

🐶 Pet-Friendly Stops Across Canada (Road Trip Bonus)

If you’re hitting the road, here are some known pet-friendly gems:

• Banff National Park: Leashed pets allowed on many trails
• Whistler, BC: Dog-friendly patios and lodges
• Montreal’s Parc Lafontaine: Great for dog walks
• Toronto’s Cherry Beach Off-Leash Dog Park

📝 Your Quick, Printable Pet Travel Checklist

Here’s a snapshot version (downloadable PDF available if you publish it on your site):

✅ ID tag + microchip
✅ Vaccination record
✅ Travel crate/carrier
✅ Food + water bowls
✅ Leash + harness
✅ Bed/blanket
✅ Toys & treats
✅ Poop bags
✅ Medications
✅ Cleaning supplies
✅ Weather gear
✅ Vet contacts

✨ Final Words (From a Fellow Pet Lover)

Traveling with your pet in Canada doesn’t have to be stressful—if you plan right. Be ready, pack smart, and always have your pet’s comfort and safety in mind. That’s the difference between a trip and a truly unforgettable journey.

Whether it’s a snowy trek to Jasper or a sunny patio brunch in Halifax, your pet deserves to be part of your adventures.