Travel Documents for Pets

St. Francis Animal Clinic Travel Documents for Pets

If you have an upcoming appointment, please take a moment to review the following important information:

Step 1: Contact the CFIA
The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) is the government branch responsible for approving pet export documents. Requirements vary depending on your destination, so it’s important to begin by reviewing their guidelines:

CFIA Pet Export Website:
https://inspection.canada.ca/en/animal-health/terrestrial-animals/exports/pets

Local CFIA Office (serving Kitchener, Waterloo, Cambridge, and Guelph):
259 Woodlawn Rd W, Suite A
Guelph, ON N1H 8J1
226-217-1200

Please obtain TWO copies of the necessary export documents.

Step 2: Prepare for Your Appointment
Once you have the correct CFIA paperwork:

1. Schedule an appointment at St. Francis Animal Clinic for your pet’s physical exam and to complete the documents.
2. Drop off the CFIA paperwork and any vaccine records not performed at our clinic at least 2 business days before your appointment.
3. Confirm your information:

• Let us know the name of the person traveling with the pet.
• Ensure the traveler’s address is up to date in your pet’s medical record — this will be listed on the forms.
• If the destination country requires a local address, please provide that when submitting paperwork.

Important Travel Considerations

• Layovers: If you are stopping in other countries on your way to your destination, notify the CFIA — additional documents may be required.
• Vaccines & Microchips: Many countries require pets to be microchipped before receiving a rabies vaccine. If re-vaccination is needed, some countries will not allow entry until 21 days after the new vaccine.
• Microchip Records: If your pet’s microchip was not placed at our clinic, please bring documentation showing the date it was inserted.
• CFIA Endorsement: Many countries require CFIA to endorse the completed travel documents. This will require a separate appointment with CFIA.
• Timing: Most travel certificates are valid for 10 days after being signed by our veterinarian. Please confirm the validity window with CFIA for your destination.