Information for Traveling with Pets
Did you know over 60% of snowbirds are traveling with pets, such as a family dog or another animal? These cute, cuddly, slobbering, barking, funny-faced, meowing, feathered, shedding, small and large behemoth’s, find a place in our hearts that can never be removed. I can attest, but from the time of my birth to the end of my day, my two dogs, Emmy and Vinny, make my family’s life better.
Just like my Snowbird friends, when we pack up and head south for the winter, or return to our northern roost, our loving dogs ride safely in the back of our SUV.
Essentials for travelling with dogs:
- Dog Food
- Foldable water bowls
- Rubber mat placed in the back cargo area to help cushion the ride
- Leashes and Collars with tags
- Crates (properly secured)
- Waste bags, extra paper towels.
- Medication, since our dog Emmy gets motion sickness.
- Vaccination records and vet clinic contacts.
- Make sure your pet is microchipped just in case they escape during your travels.
- Plenty of Dog breaks (there are plenty of rest stops which provide dog “poop and scoop” areas)
- Dog Safety Car equipment can be purchased at PetValue and PetSmart.
Pet Health
Bring the dog food, they normally eat. Having a small container in the car is important. Changing the dog food can result in unwanted diarrhea. Veterinarians also agree an important consideration about taking your dog on a long tour is their physical condition. If your pet has any physical disability, talk to the doctor prior to leaving. Decisions and precautions can then be instituted.
Crossing the border into Canada or the USA with a Dog
Needless to say every dog must be up to date with rabies shots and other vaccinations when crossing the border. You should also have a letter from your veterinarian certifying your pet is in good health. Keep a copy of the vaccination records in your glove compartment.
Rules vary between some dog breeds and other pets such as birds, cats, horses, etc:
It is therefore recommended you check the following sites for rules and regulations:
U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) regulations;
The Centre for Disease Control (CDC) importing requirements;
The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) rules related to Canada
As of August 1, 2024, the USA imposed a notification policy upon pet owners. You need to complete a form and submit it to the CDC for each of your pets you intend to enter the USA with you: https://cdc-786687.workflowcloud.com/forms/090dc543-7b2f-4538-b2c7-2919d12ecc73 . Please complete and submit the form prior to attending the border. The CDC will send you a receipt that needs to be presented at the border prior to entry. It is relatively fast and easy and there is no special Vet certification that needs to be attached.
Pet friendly Hotels
One thing we all know is how hard it is to find a good pet friendly hotel. As a consideration, BringFido.com is a pretty good resource to help you find dog friendly accommodations.
We strongly recommend you call a hotel prior to booking. Some “pet friendly hotels” are more friendly and accommodating than others. It is very important to confirm the hotel actually takes pets. In addition they set limits on the size, breed, and # of dogs allowed. Sadly, the actual fee charged for the accommodation of your pet(s) ie., dogs and cats, is rarely provided on any website. With a doodle and a Husky/Pomeranian mix we have been surprised at the tremendous discrepancies and charges from Hotel to Hotel.
Helping Snowbirds Injured Across North America
For over 40 years, we’ve been helping Canadians involved in car accidents and other personal injury incidents while traveling in the United States. Each year, millions of snowbirds-residents from Canada (and the northern U.S.A) – head south to escape the cold. Unfortunately, accidents happen. When they do we are here to help navigate the legal and insurance challenges that arise.
Cross Border Accidents and claims are very complicated!
Call the Free Snowbird Helpline 1-800-587-6992
Or Email – snowbirdaccidents@yahoo.com,
Or https://snowbirdaccidents.com/contact/
