New Puppy from Canada to Us ?s

Question
I'm considering getting a golden retriever puppy from a breeder in Toronto, Canada. The puppy will be available late February or early March 2011 after they are born in a few days. I live in the Philadelphia area. What is required to bring puppy in to US? Also, can you carry a puppy with you on a plane or is it better for the puppy to drive home? Thank you!

Answer
Hi, Donna,

How fun, a new puppy!
Here is some basic info:
Border Crossing
Traveling with Dogs and Cats

Unlike for birds and other types of household pets, owners are not required to carry government certification in order to transport the animals between the two countries for purposes of a limited stay.

Pets returning to the country of origin (such as after a vacation) undergo the same scrutiny as imported pets. In general, border personnel will want to ensure that the animal is clean, free of disease and that vaccinations are kept up to date.

Both countries require the following at the time of crossing:

  1. The animal must appear to be healthy.
  2. Written certification from a veterinarian must be on hand verifying that the animal is free of diseases communicable to humans and has been vaccinated for rabies. The rabies vaccination certificate must have an expiration date of than 36 months or less; otherwise, the certificate must show that the animal was vaccinated within the preceding 12 months. Kittens and puppies younger than 3 months of age are not required to be vaccinated.

Puppies less than 3 months of age must be confined to a location of the owner's choosing until vaccinated and must remain in confinement for one month following vaccination.

More Information

U.S. Customs & Border Protection (CBP) telephone numbers for customer service:

   * Toll-free (from US): 1-877-227-5511.

Also see telephone numbers listed under "Ports of Entry". For additional information, please visit either of the following web sites:

Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA): http://cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/menu-eng.html

U.S. Customs & Border Protection (CBP) (well, I went to this site - it was singularly unhelpful with your question, but here is the link):http://www.cbp.gov/

It is always better to travel by car with your pet.  There are numerous reasons, but for your new puppy, the first reason will be handling.  You will be able to handle her during the trip - reassure her, touch her, let her smell you/cuddle you, which you could not do while on a plane, nor in an airport.

Have fun with your puppy.  Hope this helps.