Plan Your Pet’s Journey

• Research flights to Halifax Stanfield International Airport. While direct flights may not be available, connecting options through major cities are common.
• Confirm each airline’s pet travel policies, including crate requirements and transit procedures.

Microchip Your Pet

• It is mandatory to have your pets microchipped or equivalent for travel – Cats & Dogs require an ISO-compliant microchip for identification.
• If your pet isn’t already microchipped, arrange this with your vet well in advance of the flight.

Rabies Vaccination

• A rabies vaccination is recommended but not compulsory for entry into Canada.
• If your pet is vaccinated, obtain a Fit to Fly certificate from a vet within 10 days of travel.
• If your pet is unvaccinated, a DEFRA export certificate must be completed within 72 hours of departure.

Health Certificate

• Book a veterinary appointment to issue a health certificate within 10 days of the flight (or 72 hours if unvaccinated for rabies).
• Ensure the certificate complies with Canadian regulations, including vaccination and microchip details.

Select an IATA-Compliant Travel Crate

• Purchase a travel crate that meets IATA standards, allowing your pet to stand, turn, and lie down comfortably.
• Help your pet acclimatise to the crate in the weeks leading up to travel to reduce stress.
• PetAir UK provides bespoke travel crates with pheromone spray, deep bedding, and water bowls for added comfort.

Prepare for Travel Day

• Arrive at the airport early to complete pet check-in procedures, especially if you are connecting through another city.
• Label the crate clearly with your contact details and the final destination address in Halifax.
• Ensure your pet is well-hydrated before the journey.

Customs Clearance in Halifax

Upon arrival, your pet will go through customs clearance, which includes:

• Presenting all necessary documents, such as the health certificate and vaccination records.
• Paying any applicable import fees as required by Canadian authorities.
• Undergoing an inspection if required.

Ensure your contact details are clearly displayed on your pet’s crate for easy identification.

Settling Your Pet in Halifax

• Introduce your pet to their new surroundings gradually to help them adjust.
• Explore Halifax’s pet-friendly amenities, including parks, trails, and pet services, to ensure your pet feels at home.
• Establish a consistent feeding and exercise routine to ease the transition.

Returning to the UK

• If planning to return, ensure your pet receives a rabies booster at least 21 days before departure.
• Verify all UK import paperwork is complete and accurate to avoid quarantine upon arrival.

Consult Pet Travel Experts

• Work with professionals like PetAir UK to manage the logistics and compliance requirements, ensuring a smooth and worry-free relocation process.

By following these steps, you can safely and efficiently relocate your pet to Victoria. With its breathtaking scenery and pet-friendly community, Victoria is a perfect place for you and your furry companion to begin a new chapter.