1. Age of Animal

 

Puppies and kittens must be 4 months or older for travel to Canada. They must have their own Rabies vaccination (which can be administered at 12 weeks of age).

If younger than 3 months (12 weeks), puppies and kittens may travel under their mother’s Rabies vaccination, provided the mother has a valid Rabies vaccination.

For dogs younger than 8 months, proof of ownership must be presented to confirm that the puppy is not for commercial use.

 

2. Microchip

 

While a microchip is not required for import into Canada, South African regulations mandate that all pets being exported from South Africa must be microchipped.

 

3. Rabies Vaccination

 

A valid Rabies vaccination is required for all international travel. Your pet’s Rabies vaccination must be at least 31 days old but no more than one year old.

 

Please note: Only an official, registered veterinarian can administer these vaccinations for export purposes. Vaccinations given by a veterinary nurse, breeder, or welfare organisation staff will not be accepted.

 

4. Annual Vaccinations

 

Annual vaccinations for dogs and cats are recommended. The vaccinations must be older than 30 days but not older than one year upon arrival. A valid vaccination certificate will be necessary if your pet requires boarding or kenneling before or after travel.

 

For Dogs: Canine Distemper, Infectious Canine Hepatitis, Canine Parvovirus, Canine Parainfluenza, Bordetella Bronchiseptica (Kennel Cough), and Leptospirosis.

 

For Cats: Feline Panleukopenia (Infectious Enteritis/Feline Distemper), Feline Rhinotracheitis, and Feline Calicivirus.

 

Please note: As with Rabies, these vaccinations must be administered by a registered veterinarian.

 

5. Import Permit

 

Required for puppies under 8 months of age (unless you can prove personal ownership, and no ‘commercial’ use). Canada no longer accepts puppies for commercial purposes from high-risk Rabies countries.

 

No Import Permit is required for personal pets.

 

6. Health Certificate

 

Your pet must have a Health Certificate issued by a private veterinarian, confirming compliance with the above requirements. State Vet endorsement is not required. This must be done within 10 days of departure. We provide our clients with a completed and accurate Health Certificate, along with clear guidance on what needs to be done.

 

If you have any further questions or need assistance, please feel free to contact us. We're here to help!