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Air Canada Pet Policies

Like many airlines, Air Canada allows you to bring small dogs and cats with you on your flight. Before booking your flight, you should be aware of the different requirements for your animals and their equipment, as well as the associated fees. Your animal’s size and species will determine where and how it flies. When your pet flies with you in the cabin, it counts as one item toward your carry-on allowance, and only one animal is allowed in the cabin per passenger. Per Air Canada pet policies, all animals must be registered with the airline between 30 and 7 days from departure.

• Flying with Pets in the Cabin : Small dogs and cats, who are at least 12 weeks old and fully weaned, may travel in the passenger cabin. Soft-sided and hard-sided carriers are permitted, but soft-sided carriers are preferred. Your pet must be small enough to stand up and turn around in their carriers, and ride comfortably beneath the seat in front of you. Certain fees are associated with traveling with animals, and need to be taken into account when flying with pets.
• Flying with Pets in Checked Baggage : Dogs and cats that are too big to fit in the cabin can ride safely and comfortably in the pressurized cargo hold of your flight. You pet must have a hard-sided, leak proof crate or container, and stronger breeds require reinforced carriers. Certain restrictions apply for snub-nose animals, so be sure to verify your breed qualifies to fly as checked baggage.
• Flying Pets as Cargo : Should you need to transport an unaccompanied animal, Air Canada offers the option of flying an animal as air freight. This makes it possible to transport a variety of animals safety. Air Canada has designated holding facilities where your pet will stay between connecting flight, as well as comfort stops and overnight stays with Air Canada Cargo partner kennels.
• Service Animal Policies : Traveling with a certified service animal that assists passengers is free of charge on Air Canada. The dog must be registered, and it is strongly suggested that it remains harnessed and leashed at all times, but service animals are not subject to the same size restrictions as other animals riding in the cabin. If traveling internationally, be sure to check the requirements of that country.

Find additional details on Air Canada pet policies on the airline webpage , or by contacting Air Canada for making your pet travel reservations.

Traveling with Animals to and from the USA

When you arrive at the airport for your flight, it is recommended that you show up at least one hour earlier. Your animal and all of its accessories, including carrier, will have to go through security. The necessary travel documents and the way in which you prepare your pet for international travel can depend on your personal itinerary and which airline carriers you will be using. It is especially important to have the proper documentation for the final leg of your journey.

Animal Import and Export Regulations

When traveling internationally, there are several animal import and export regulations you need to be aware of. Whether it’s a short-term visit with a common household pet or a longer-term relocation with a more exotic breed, we recommend consulting the following EU and US agencies about what the specific requirements for your animal and on your travel dates.

• The USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service offers specific information about traveling to and from Germany with an animal.
• The European Commission has its own guidelines and regulations about the movement of pets within its borders.
• The Center for Disease Control is another potential source of information with regulatory authority over animal importation into the United States.

Still not sure which airline carrier is right for your pet travel needs? Check out our full list of domestic and international pet-friendly airlines .

• Air Canada >

Air Canada: Pet Policy

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What methods of transport does Air Canada provide for my pet?

• Travel in the passenger cabin (cats and small dogs only).
• Checked as baggage in pressurized and temperature controlled area of your aircraft.
• Shipped as cargo in pressurized and temperature controlled area.

Does my pet qualify for travel in the passenger cabin?

• The service is only available for flights operated by Air Canada and Jazz. Please note that some tickets not purchased on aircanada.com or with Air Canada Reservations may not be eligible for this service. Please also view important information if you're traveling on a codeshare flight.
• Your pet must be at least 12 weeks old and fully weaned.
• A customer may not travel with more than one pet in the cabin.
• You must pre-register your pet in advance with Air Canada Reservations . It's recommended that you do so within 24 hours of completing your booking.
• You must provide the dimensions of the carrier and the weight and breed of your pet at the time of your call to Air Canada Reservations.
• Maximum allowable carrier size (Hard-sided): 23 cm x 40 cm x 55 cm (9 in x 15.5 in x 21.5 in); Maximum allowable carrier size (Soft-sided): 27 cm x 40 cm x 55 cm (10.5 in x 15.5 in x 21.5 in)
• Air Canada asks that you arrive at the airport at least 30 minutes prior to the recommended check-in time for your flight.
• Your pet must remain at all times in a pet carrier stowed under your seat.
• Pets are not allowed in the cabin on flights to and from Australia, Columbia (no cats; only small dogs allowed), Hawaii, Hong Kong, Jamaica, New Zealand, Peru, and the United Kingdom.

Does my pet qualify for travel as checked baggage?

Pets that meet the following qualifications can travel as checked baggage:

• Your pet can comfortably remain in its kennel for the entire flight.
• The kennel meets all requirements (see below for more information) and the combined weight of the animal and kennel does not exceed 70 lb/32 kg.
• Your pet has all necessary health documents required by your destination (see below for more information).
• There are heat and winter restrictions based on the season. Click here for more information.

Does my pet qualify to be shipped as cargo?

If your pet does not meet the requirements for travel in the cabin or as checked baggage, or you would like your pet to travel unaccompanied, contact Air Canada Cargo for more information.

What are the fees associated with pet transport?

For pets in the cabin, prices are $50 or $100 per direction, based on itinerary. For pets in the baggage compartment, it is $105 per direction.

What are the kennel requirements?

In addition to the size and weight maximums, the USDA and Air Canada require that kennels meet the following requirements:

• Be leak-proof and escape-proof.
• Be properly ventilated, but not allow any part of the animal from protruding outside of the container.
• Provide enough room for the animal to stand and turn around.
• Be made of metal, wood, or a hard plastic/composite.
• Contain absorbent material or litter.
• Have functional handles on the kennel's exterior to prevent tilting and any direct contact with the animals.
• Be closed securely, but not locked.
• Have labels with the words "Live Animal" in letters at least 1-inch tall on the crate's top and on at least one side.
• Have upright arrow labels indicating kennel's correct position.

What health documentation is required?

While Air Canada does not require a health certificate for your animal, some States and Countries do require health documents. As it is the passenger's responsibility to be aware of all regulations, you should consult your veterinarian and the Department of Agriculture to ensure that your animal will comply with all requirements.

Are there any other restrictions?

Air Canada can refuse to transport an animal due to illness, aggressive behavior, poor kenneling, or extreme temperatures at origin, transfer, or destination airports.

Please contact the airline directly for information about traveling with a service animal.

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Airline Forms Air Canada

Air Canada Pet Policies

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Air Canada Pet Policy

Air Canada requires that your pet be accompanied by a certificate of good health, and that your pet is transported in an approved pet carrier or cargo crate .

NOTE: If your pet is flying as unaccompanied air (manifest) cargo, you should contact the cargo department of Air Canada prior to ordering to confirm that an agent is not required to handle your pet's transport.

Your veterinarian will be certifying that your pet is healthy enough to travel and is free of diseases communicable to humans. Air Canada also requires that you provide copies of the veterinary certificates and other documents required by the country to which you are traveling.

Your airline pet passport package includes:

• Instructions, in cabin and cargo regulations, and other information for transporting your pet on Air Canada
• Acclimation Certificate and instructions for its use**
• Airline Veterinary Certificate and instructions
• Pet Passport Folder - included with First Class Mail Delivery Options above
• Unlimited Email Support

**During periods of very cold weather, an acclimation certificate may also be required for pets traveling in cargo. On most airlines, pets are not accepted for transport in the cargo section of the airline when the ground temperature is below 45 degrees Fahrenheit (8 degrees Celsius) at any location on the itinerary UNLESS the pet has a veterinarian's statement of low temperature acclimation (Acclimation Certificate). 

All instructions and Air Canada policies are verified at the time of order. Requirements to fly your dog or cat with Air Canada are included. Enforcement may not be consistent at every airport and having proper documentation will better ensure that no problems will arise during your travels.

Additional forms can be self-printed from the Email Attachment option.

There are no refunds on forms unless there is a problem with the information or forms provided.

Have a crate for your pet already? Get only what you need to Update Your Pet Crate .

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Home > Pet Passports > Canada Pet Passport & Import Regulations

Canada Pet Passport Regulations

All dogs imported commercially from countries at high-risk for dog rabies will not currently be permitted entry into canada. commercial transport will include, but are not limited to dogs for change of ownership, resale, adoption, fostering, breeding, show or exhibition, research, and other purposes. this includes dogs that have resided in or have visited high-rabies countries within the past 6 months. cats are not included in this ban..

There will be no quarantine imposed on your pet when entering Canada as long as the following requirements are met. Unless otherwise stated, the regulations below apply to domestic dogs, cats and ferrets including service and emotional support dogs and cats. Owners of other pets should refer to item 9.

Pet Microchip

Canada does not require that your pet be identified with a pet microchip unless the import is commercial (see below), but it is strongly recommended that your pet be identified with a 15 digit ISO 11784 compliant pet microchip .

The microchip should be implanted by your veterinarian, veterinary hospital or trained nurse. You should receive documentation as to the manufacturer of the microchip and instructions on how to register your pet's information in the manufacturer database.

 Vaccinations

Dogs over 8 months of age and cats over 3 months of age entering canada from countries canada considers as rabies free*.

Your dog or cat will need either proof of current rabies vaccination (EU Pet Passport is accepted) OR a health certificate in English or French and completed by a licensed veterinarian in the origination country.

The certificate must clearly identify your pet and a governmental veterinarian must state that rabies has not existed in the originating country for the six (6) month period immediately preceding the shipment of your pet; and, your pet has been in that country for the six (6) month period or since birth. A licensed veterinarian in your country can also do this as long as the certificate is endorsed by a governmental authority responsible for the import and export of live animals.

The same requirements apply to dogs or cats that originated from Canada and are being returned directly from a country designated by the Minister as having been free from rabies and living there for not less than six (6) months.

*Countries Canada classifies as rabies-free

Australia, Fiji, Finland, Iceland, Ireland, Japan, New Zealand, Sweden and the United Kingdom (England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.

Dogs over 8 months of age and cats over 3 months of age entering Canada from all other countries

If your dog or cat is entering Canada from a country not included on the list above, then you will need the following:

• A valid rabies vaccination certificate issued, in either English or French, by a licensed veterinarian from the country of origin. (EU Pet Passport is accepted.) There is no waiting period after the vaccination is administered. Canada does recognize the three year rabies vaccination. Please note that if a validity date does not appear on the certificate, then it will be considered a one year vaccine.
• Your airline may require a veterinary certificate of health.

Unaccompanied dogs under 8 months of age entering Canada from any country

Due to the problems with puppy mills and the movement of puppies, Canada is very sensitive to dogs entering the country under eight (8) months of age and will assume that, if you, as the owner of your dog, are not traveling with your dog and its papers are not in your name, it may be considered a commercial* shipment by customs and be subject to a microchip , health certificate issued within 48 hours of entry, and an import permit.

Puppies entering Canada without their owners or commercially* will need to be vaccinated for distemper, hepatitis, parvo virus, and parainfluenza, no earlier than six weeks of age. Arrangements should be made with veterinary officials at the port of entry for inspection outside of normal working hours.

Commercial transport

See Note above for restrictions on commercial transport of dogs from countries classified as high-rabies.

Dogs imported for purposes of being given or transferred to another person, resale, adoption, fostering, breeding, show or exhibition and research will be classified as commercial.

An exception to this requirement involves puppies traveling from the United States entering Canada for competitions.

** If proof can be provided that your dog is entering Canada temporarily and is registered in a competition, show or a trial organized by a recognized association and meets all other requirements, an import permit is not required.

If this proof is unavailable, then the owner must apply for an import permit at least 30 days in advance.

All dogs entering Canada under 8 months for commercial purposes must enter Canada as air cargo, if flying.

Entering Canada with puppies under three (3) months of age

Dogs and cats under three (3) months of age are exempt from import requirements if entering Canada with their owner. Proof of age and ownership should be available.

Medically Certified Guide Dogs

Assistance dogs that are endorsed as a guide, hearing or other service dog are not subject to any restrictions for importation when the person importing the dog is the user of the dog and accompanies the dog to Canada.

Rabies Titer Test

A rabies titer test is not required to enter Canada from any country.

Pet Health Certificate

See rabies vaccination requirements above. If a pet health certificate is required, it must be in English or French and completed by a licensed veterinarian. It should identify the animal, the dates of vaccination, the manufacturer and the expiration date of the rabies vaccine. The Canada does accept 3 year rabies vaccinations. Import permits will be required for puppies entering Canada unaccompanied.

Entering Canada by Air

Pets can enter Canada at international airports in many cities including but not limited to Vancouver, Calgary, Ontario, Quebec and Montreal.

Dogs and cats entering Canada from all countries except the United States will be subject to inspection. There is a $30.00USD fee for this service for the first animal and $5.00USD for each additional animal. Proof of rabies vaccination will be required.

All domestic dogs and cats must be free of evidence of disease communicable to humans when examined at the port of entry. If your pet is not in apparent good health, further examination by a licensed veterinarian may be required at the owner's expense.

Puppies and Kittens

Puppies and kittens under the age of 3 months and not vaccinated for rabies entering Canada are exempt from import requirements. See above for information regarding puppies and kittens between the age of 3 and 8 months.

• Traveling with a puppy

Banned Breeds

The American Staffordshire Terrier, Pit Bull Terrier, American Pit Bull Terrier, and Staffordshire Bull Terrier and their crosses are banned from entering or transiting the province of Ontario. The City of Toronto also bans the breeds. Transiting Toronto is not permitted on WestJet. When transiting Toronto, advance notice must be provided and an agent must transit your dog.

The following dogs or their mixes are banned in Winnipeg: American Pit Bull Terrier, Staffordshire Bull Terrier or American Staffordshire Terrier.

Exporting Pets Living in Canada

Other animals.

Rabbits entering Canada from the United States do not require documentation although they may be inspected by border officials. Rabbits imported from any country other than the United States will need an import permit and will be subject to quarantine. Your rabbit must be accompanied by you, the owner, and must be accompanied with a statement that they have always been in your possession as a pet. You should contact the local CFIA office in the province into which your rabbit will be imported.

Rodents (guinea pigs, gerbils, mice, rats, chinchillas and hamsters) do not need a permit or health certificate to enter Canada.

Ferrets entering Canada over the age of 3 months from the United States must be accompanied by proof of current rabies vaccination. If entering Canada from any other country with a ferret, an import permit issued by the local CFIA office in the destionation province is required.

Birds: Owners must accompany their domesticated birds into Canada from the United States. The owner must sign a declaration stating that the birds have been in his/her possession for the 90 day period preceding the date of importation and have not been in contact with any other birds during that time. The owner must sign a declaration that their bird is not intended for resale. The bird must be found healthy during inspection. The bird must not have entered Canada for 90 days preceeding their current visit.

Birds entering Canada from other countries will require an import permit from the local CFIA office in the destination province. Canada bans the import of birds from certain countries and has additional requirements from others. More information can be obtained at the local CFIA office.

If your pet is not a dog, cat or ferret, and especially if it is a turtle or parrot, you should verify that it is not protected under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES).  You will need to apply for additional permits if this is the case. Over 180 countries participate and enforce CITES regulations.

• Search CITES database .
• Read More about CITES

Need More Assistance?

To the best of our ability, we ensure that recommendations given on PetTravel.com reflect the current regulations. We cannot predict how a given country may enforce these regulations. Noncompliance may result in the need to make arrangements to put your pet into quarantine at your expense, return your pet to the country of origin, or euthanize your pet. We suggest that you minimize the disruptions that may occur by following the rules of the country you are visiting.

Further detail on import permits, costs, tests and procedures are available at minimal cost at PetTravelStore.com under Pet Passports. We also stock all the equipment and accessories you will need for traveling with your pet. Same day shipping Monday through Friday until 2:00 PM EST.

HAVE QUESTIONS OR COMMENTS???

Due to the high demand, we are unable to respond to your  question quickly if posted below. If you need a fast response, you can post them directly to our Facebook page , blog , or forum . We will respond as soon as we can.

Please note that the accuracy of comments made from Facebook users other than Pet Travel have not been verified. We do not endorse any person or company that may offer transport services through posts to this webpage.

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Travel documents

Know which documents you need and where to get them to make your travel quick and easy.

Identification documents

Canadian passports.

A passport is the only reliable and universally accepted travel identification document and it proves that you have a right to return to Canada 

Canadian Travel Number

Avoid delays at the airport because your name is the same as, or similar to, that of someone on the No Fly List ( Secure Air Travel Act list)

NEXUS                                                  

If you travel between Canada and the United States often, a NEXUS card will save you time at the border

Permanent resident card

Permanent residents of Canada need a permanent resident card to re-enter Canada

Pre-boarding identification requirements

Information on the identification documents you need to bring to the airport

Travel documents for non-Canadians

Travel documents for convention refugees, protected persons or stateless persons living in Canada

Permits and certificates

Find out whether you need a visa for your destination and get it well in advance of your trip

Certificate of Canadian citizenship

A Canadian citizenship certificate is not a valid travel document

CITES permits

Information on permits to transport, import or export a listed wildlife species or items made from listed wildlife species

International Driving Permit

Your Canadian driver's licence may not be valid in your destination country

Travelling outside Canada with your vehicle

You may need a Carnet de Passages en Douane (CPD) to travel outside Canada with your vehicle.

International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis

Some countries may require you to show proof of vaccination  

Your pets need travel documents to enter another country

CANPASS - Private aircraft

CANPASS cards allow private aircraft to clear customs and immigration quickly and securely

More information

Consent letter for children travelling abroad.

A consent letter helps children travelling without both parents to enter foreign countries and re-enter Canada

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Information on the legal issues involved in getting married abroad 

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Information about getting notarial services while you are outside Canada

Travelling as a dual citizen

Information for Canadian dual citizens who are travelling to another country where they have citizenship

Travel insurance

Buy travel insurance before you travel outside Canada. Bring your insurance information with you. You may need to prove you have travel insurance to enter some countries

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Network maintenance

Due to system maintenance, some sections of the site will be unavailable from 3 am to 7 am (EST) on Sunday, December 18, 2022 .

Due to system maintenance, the CFIA website will be unavailable from 7 am to 7 pm (EST) on Saturday, October 16, 2021 . We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause.

Pets (dogs, cats and ferrets): Export certificates

This page is part of the guidance document repository (gdr)..

Looking for related documents? Search for related documents in the Guidance Document Repository

Most pets travelling from Canada to another country will need an export certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian and endorsed by an official Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) veterinarian.

It is mandatory to obtain CFIA endorsement of an export certificate before the animal(s) leave Canada as the CFIA cannot endorse or issue a certificate if the animal(s) is/are no longer in Canada.

The requirements for pets travelling to another country are very specific and different for each country. As a pet owner, you must plan ahead to ensure you have enough time to meet any testing, vaccination or treatment requirements and obtain the necessary certifications. Some countries may also require owners to obtain an import permit in addition to an export certificate. All official documents must be completed accurately.

Information on pets travelling to certain countries, including export certificates , is outlined below. In some cases, the certificates will be in English and/or another language without a corresponding French version. This is determined by the requirements of other countries and is outside of the control of the CFIA.

In order to avoid delays or mistakes with certification, which could result in the animal being ineligible to travel, it is important to review the requirements and export certificate well in advance and plan out any required tests, vaccinations or treatments with your veterinarian.

It is important to note that countries may change their requirements without prior notification to the CFIA. It is strongly recommended that prior to starting the export process you obtain a current copy of the import requirements from the appropriate veterinary authorities or embassy of the destination country and review them against the export certificate to ensure that all requirements are addressed. If you have any concerns, please contact the CFIA animal health office in your area for assistance.

Countries without a certificate

If you are travelling to a country for which there is currently no negotiated export certificate and the country does not provide one, you must contact the appropriate veterinary authorities or embassy of the destination country to obtain a copy of the current import requirements. If the destination country does not have a prescribed format for the export certificate and their import requirements can be met, the Canadian International Health Certificate can be used. Otherwise, the requirements will need to be submitted to the CFIA animal health office in your area for review to determine if a certificate can be negotiated. It is important to note that the process to negotiate an export certificate with another country can take several months. If you are unsure whether the Canadian International Health Certificate can be used, contact the CFIA animal health office in your area for assistance before starting the export process.

Transiting other countries

As of January 15, 2022, the European Union (EU) requires all dogs, cats and ferrets transiting through the EU to meet specific conditions and be certified. See Export of dogs, cats, and ferrets to the European Union and Northern Ireland: In-transit and commercial movements for more information.

If the animal will be transiting 1 or more countries before reaching the destination country, additional requirements from both the transit and destination country may apply. As the owner, you must contact the veterinary authority or embassy of both the destination country and transit countries to request the import requirements for your specific travel situation to determine whether additional certification is required.

If you have difficulty obtaining any of these certificates please contact the CFIA animal health office in your area.

Export certificates

Canadian international health certificate.

• Dogs and cats
• Dogs, cats, rabbits and fur-bearing animals
• Export of dogs and cats to Barbados
• Dogs and cats HA2348 – PDF (469 kb)
• Ferrets HA3174 – PDF (202 kb)

Brunei Darussalam

Cayman islands.

• Cats and dogs
• Cats and dogs – PDF (98 kb)

Eurasian Economic Union

European union.

• Dogs, cats, and ferrets to the European Union and Northern Ireland: In-transit and commercial movements
• Dogs, cats, and ferrets to the European Union and Northern Ireland: Non-commercial movements

French Polynesia

Great britain (england, scotland and wales), the channel islands and the isle of man.

• Dogs, cats, and ferrets to Great Britain, the Channel Islands and the Isle of Man – Non-commercial movements of 5 or less animals
• Dogs, cats, and ferrets to Great Britain, the Channel Islands and the Isle of Man – Commercial movements and non-commercial movements of more than 5 animals
• Dogs and cats – PDF (144 kb)

Korea (Republic of)

Kyrgyz republic (kyrgyzstan).

• Dogs and cats – PDF (675 kb)

New Zealand

Northern ireland.

• Dogs, cats and ferrets – Non-commercial movement of 5 or less – PDF (130 kb)
• Ferrets – PDF (138 kb)

Philippines

• Dogs and cats – PDF (51.3 kb)

Russian Federation

Saint-pierre and miquelon, sint maarten.

• Dogs,cats, and ferrets (HA2912)

South Africa

• Cats – PDF (140 kb)

St. Vincent and the Grenadines

• Cats – PDF (464 kb)
• Dogs – PDF (463 kb)

Switzerland

• Dogs, cats and ferrets – Non-commercial movement of 5 or less – PDF (209 kb)

Trinidad and Tobago

• Dogs and cats – PDF (465 kb)
• Dogs, cats and ferrets

Turks and Caicos Islands

United arab emirates, united states of america.

Air Canada Pet Policy for Emotional Support Animals and Service Dogs

The bottom line:.

• Does Air Canada Still Accept ESA Letters? Air Canada's service dog policy no longer permits emotional support animals inside its aircraft cabins. However, your psychiatric service dog can accompany you during your flight. 
• What Is a PSD Letter? A PSD letter verifies that you have a disability and are legally allowed to travel with a psychiatric service dog. 
• How Do You Get a PSD Letter? Obtaining a PSD letter through Pettable is simple. Start with our short quiz to be matched with a Pettable mental health partner. If you qualify, you can receive your letter as soon as 24 hours. 
• How Do You Qualify for a PSD Letter? A licensed mental health professional evaluates you to determine your eligibility. You must have a relevant mental or emotional health disability such as depression, ADHD, autism, or an anxiety disorder. 
• How To Get Started? Complete our quick online assessment to see if you're eligible. 

The U.S. Department of Transportation announced major rule changes impacting air travel with emotional support animals. Many airlines, including Air Canada, have shifted their policies regarding ESAs and service animals.

Like other travelers on upcoming Air Canada flights, you may have lots of questions. What is the new Air Canada ESA policy? Does the Air Canada pet policy apply to psychiatric service dogs? What documentation do you need to travel with your service dog? In our comprehensive guide, we answer these and other important questions. You'll also learn what forms to fill out, plus how to obtain a psychiatric service dog letter from Pettable .

What is Air Canada’s Pet Policy?

For animal lovers flying to or from the Great White North, you’ll be happy to know that the Air Canada pet policy gives you multiple options for traveling with your pet. If you have a small cat or dog that is small enough to fit under the seat in front of you, it can join you in the airplane’s cabin with you. Your pet must travel in a closed carrier that gives the animal enough room to stand up, turn around, and lie down safely and comfortably, and it must remain closed through the flight. One bonus: your dog or cat doesn’t need to be a support animal to accompany you.

To travel with your pet on Air Canada, you’ll need to pay a $50 fee for the United States and Canada or $100 for international flights. If it’s traveling in the cabin, your animal and crate will count as your one standard carry-on item. If your pet is too big to fly with you in the cabin, it can still travel in the pressurized cargo compartment of most Air Canada planes. This option can cost you up to $120.75 for flights within the U.S. (including Hawaii) and Canada, or upwards of $300 for international travel.

Recent Changes to Air Canada’s ESA Policy

Air Canada stopped permitting emotional support animals in its aircraft cabins as of March 1, 2021. As a result, the old Air Canada ESA policy is no longer in effect. Under its new accessibility rules , only service dogs fit its definition of a service animal. Cats are considered pets, so they may travel in pet carriers inside airplane cabins. Large pet dogs can travel in either an aircraft's baggage compartment or through the Air Canada Cargo service .

Due to these recent changes, Pettable no longer offers ESA air travel letters. However, your emotional support animal may fit the definition of a psychiatric service dog. You must comply with Air Canada service dog policy and submit a completed U.S. DOT Service Animal Air Transportation Form . Get ready for your flight on Air Canada with your DOT form plus a legitimate PSD letter from Pettable.

How to Fly on Air Canada with a Pet or Emotional Support Animal

Before you can embark, you’ll need to let the Air Canada team know that you’ll be traveling with your pet, either in the cabin or baggage compartment. After you’ve booked your flight, contact Air Canada Reservations to register your pet. During this call, you’ll need to provide the dimensions of the carrier, as well as the breed and size/weight of your pet to ensure they qualify for in-cabin travel. The airline strongly recommends registering your pet within 24 hours of your reservation and that you arrive to the airport an extra 30 minutes before your flight (since you’ll need to see an agent at check-in).

How To Fly With Your Psychiatric Service Dog on Air Canada

Because the old Air Canada ESA policy no longer applies, you will need to follow the new Air Canada service dog rules. You should obtain proper documentation in advance of your flight. While the U.S. DOT Service Animal Air Transportation Form is the most important requirement, a Pettable psychiatric service dog letter verifies that you need your service animal on your flight. Keep in mind other useful advice for flying with your psychiatric service dog:

• Prepare your documentation well in advance.
• Have clearly written descriptions of the assistive tasks performed by your service dog.
• Confirm any quarantines, restrictions or embargos before your flight.
• Give your dog exercise before leaving for the airport.
• Avoid overfeeding and overwatering your dog before your flight.
• Inform airport security officers that you have a service dog.
• Cooperate with airport staff and keep your dog under control at all times.

Do I Qualify For A Psychiatric Service Animal Quiz

1 in 5 Americans experiences mental health illnesses, disorders, or illnesses. A Psychiatric Service Animal can be instrumental in helping people manage such mental health challenges.

How to Get a Legitimate Psychiatric Service Dog - Pettable’s Process

To bring a psychiatric service dog into your life, Pettable is your one-stop shop. Just take our quick and easy assessment to determine your eligibility and get diagnosed by one of our licensed mental health professionals. If you want, we’ll issue you a PSD letter, but for the best results, you’ll want to consider signing up for Pettable’s PSD training course.

Take Our Assessment

To get started, take the Pettable PSD evaluation assessment. By answering a few questions, we can determine your eligibility for a service dog, and we will match you with one of our professionals to guide you through the rest.

Meet with a Licensed Mental Health Professional

Next, you’ll meet with one of our licensed mental health professionals, who will evaluate your mental and emotional health. They will diagnose your condition and discuss how a PSD can help your daily life and well-being, as well as help you determine the best type of dog for your needs.

Receive a PSD Letter

Optionally, your LMHP can issue you an official PSD letter, which demonstrates your need for the support animal. While it isn’t necessary for your daily life with the PSD, it’s useful to have on hand when applying for housing or bringing them along in public accommodations and spaces.

Train Your Psychiatric Service Dog

The most important step to making your canine companion a PSD is with proper training, such as the program we offer at Pettable. To serve as your PSD, your dog must be trained to perform specific tasks related to your mental health condition. These can include:

• Fetching medication
• Performing deep pressure therapy (DPT)
• Assisting during an epileptic seizure
• Contacting emergency services in an emergency

Whether you’re adopting a new dog or training your current canine, our online PSD training course can prepare you for the job — from the comfort of your home. The 15-part video series, led by a professional dog trainer, lets you teach your dog at a pace that fits you both, guaranteeing a successful future of support. 

What Is the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA)?

Before the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, the United States government took measures to help make air travel more accessible. The Air Carrier Access Act of 1986 was one such move. The ACAA prohibits discrimination based on passengers' disabilities and mandates airlines to offer accessible features and facilities. Such accommodations include ramps and mechanical lifts, removable armrests, accessible restrooms, and allowance for mobility aids and service animals.

Emotional Support Animals Under the ACAA

The ACAA originally defined service animals as being trained to assist people with disabilities, but a 2003 DOT policy update allowed ESAs inside airplane cabins. This change allowed each eligible passenger to bring an emotional support dog, cat or other animal for airline travel.

While ESAs do not have to be trained to perform tasks, their presence alone offers support to people dealing with anxiety, depression, PTSD, OCD, schizophrenia, ADHD, bipolar disorders and other developmental/mental health conditions. The 2003 DOT policy change did not significantly limit the kinds of species that could serve as ESAs. Air carriers faced unique challenges as passengers brought animals claimed to be ESAs but with no legitimate documentation.

Most airlines, including Air Canada, no longer allow any type of emotional support animal. They do permit psychiatric service dogs, which can serve the same functions as ESAs for people with mental and emotional support needs. Along with your completed U.S. DOT Service Animal Air Transportation Form, a Pettable PSD letter can provide the vital documentation needed for your to travel with your psychiatric service dog.

What Is the Difference Between an Emotional Support Animal and Psychiatric Service Dog?

ESAs and psychiatric service dogs help their human guardians in similar ways. Both can help alleviate stress in challenging situations, particularly acute stress experienced by people with disabilities. While the qualifying processes for an ESA and a PSD are similar, service dog training focuses on specific assistive tasks. Depending on your unique needs, your PSD may perform a few important jobs:

• Detecting early signs of an anxiety attack
• Applying calming physical pressure on the body
• Fetching medication as needed
• Signaling to others that you need space
• Seek outside assistance if you're in danger
• Besides meeting the appropriate training guidelines, your PSD will have to be well-behaved in public settings.

Air Canada's Service Dog Policies

Are you traveling with your emotional support animal on Air Canada? If your ESA is also a psychiatric service dog and you have the proper documentation, you're golden. Make sure you follow the new Air Canada service dog policy, not its former policy on emotional support animals. Keep in mind that the policies and procedures detailed here apply to Air Canada Rouge and Air Canada Express flights operated by Jazz Aviation.

Air Canada's Required Documentations

With the old Air Canada emotional support animal policy no longer applicable, you must now have a completed U.S. DOT Service Animal Air Transportation Form . You need to include important information on this form: vaccination details plus the names of the dog's handler and trainer. You must also certify that your PSD is trained in specific assistive functions, will not relieve itself on the airplane, can behave appropriately in public and will be leashed at all times. Finally, the form requires you to accept responsibility for any damages the animal may cause.

If your flight will last eight hours or longer, you must also complete the U.S. DOT's Service Animal Relief Attestation Form . You certify that your service dog will either not urinate or defecate on the plane or it can do so in a hygienic manner.

Advance Notice

You should contact the Air Canada Medical Assistance Desk about your psychiatric service dog at least 48 hours before your flight departs. You must notify the desk that you have a service dog and request additional floor space for the dog if needed. You can call the Medical Assistance Desk at 800-667-4732.

Air Canada PSD Letter Policies

Air Canada doesn't explicitly require a PSD letter to fly with your psychiatric service dog. However, having a Pettable PSD letter along with your required DOT forms can ensure smooth check-in and inspection at the airport.

Other Air Canada Pet Policies To Know

It's helpful to know how Air Canada pet policy addresses flying with pets in cabin and baggage compartment areas. Except for fees, pet travel policies are the same for domestic, U.S. inbound and international flights.

Air Canada's Pet Fees

Pet fees on Air Canada differ between domestic and international flights. Expect to pay between $50 and $59 USD on flights within the United States and Canada, excluding Hawaii. International pet fees range between $100 and $118. Air Canada flights to Hawaii do not permit pets in the cabin: They must travel in the baggage compartment via the Air Canada Cargo service.

Air Canada's Breed Restrictions

Air Canada does not specify breed restrictions for service dogs or pets in the cabin. However, snub-nosed breeds cannot travel as checked baggage or through the Air Canada Cargo service. Brachycephalic cats and dogs have flatter and wider skulls, which reduce their breathing efficiency in extreme heat. This feature makes them prone to dangerous overheating, which can lead to severe illness or death. Prohibited breeds include Burmese, British Shorthair and Persian cats along with Boxer, Pekinese and Pug dog breeds. You can find the full list on its website.

Air Canada's Pet Carrier Size Requirements

Air Canada has set size guidelines for small pet carriers. Because the airline mandates that pet carriers be placed underneath the seats, these requirements vary by the type of aircraft. Your pet carrier cannot exceed certain dimensions:

• Boeing 789: 20H x 40W x 43L centimeters
• Boeing 788: 20H x 40W x 35L centimeters
• Boeing 777-300ER and 777-200LR: 21H x 38W x 43L centimeters

Air Canada's Travel Requirements

Pet carriers count toward the airline's carry-on baggage allowance. You cannot take pets in the cabin if you are traveling in Premium Economy class, have a bulkhead or exit row seat, are an unaccompanied minor or are flying in Business class of a Boeing 737 Max 8 airplane.

You may bring only one cat or small dog on your flight. Your pet must be at least 12 weeks old and fully weaned and stay inside its pet carrier at all times. Because you'll need to see an agent at check-in time, you should arrive at least 30 minutes early. You cannot check in at airport self-service kiosks when traveling with your pet in the cabin.

Pettable’s Tips on How to Fly with Your ESA and Psychiatric Service Dogs

Make sure your dog can handle air travel.

Don't just assume your service dog can handle airline travel. Check with your dog's veterinarian and trainer to discuss travel suitability and options.

Understand Airline Service Dog Policies

Remember that U.S. DOT and airline service animal rules can change at any time. Check ahead for any updates before booking your ticket.

Have Ready Access to Your Documents

Keep your completed U.S. DOT forms and Pettable PSD letter in an easy-to-reach place. You'll save time and hassles during the check-in process.

Do service dogs fly for free on Air Canada?

Service dogs may accompany Air Canada passengers for free. On flights to and from the United States, each passenger may have up to two service dogs. Within Canada and to other destinations, each passenger may take only one service dog.

Does Air Canada allow ESA dogs?

Air Canada only permits service animals, including psychiatric service dogs. Small pets may travel inside aircraft cabins while inside their pet carriers.

Can Air Canada deny my ESA?

Because Air Canada service dog policy no longer permits ESAs, you cannot board an Air Canada flight with one unless it is a psychiatric service dog and you have proper documentation.

Which airlines are still allowing ESA dogs?

Most airlines in the United States no longer allow emotional support animals. However, a few air carriers allow ESAs . These include North American-based carriers such as Latam, Volaris and WestJet plus several international airlines:

• China Airlines
• Singapore Air

Check with each carrier for its specific policies. Some may only permit ESA dogs, while others have weight and breed restrictions.

Can my dog sit on my lap during an Air Canada flight?

No, service dogs must be leashed, harnessed or tethered during your flight. Small pets must travel in their appropriately sized carriers, which should fit under passenger seats inside the aircraft cabin.

© 2023 Pettable, Inc. All rights reserved.

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Flying With Dogs or Cats? These Are Airlines’ Pet Policies

American recently relaxed its rules for pets traveling inside the cabin with their owners. Here’s what the major U.S. airlines require to travel with a pet.

By Jesus Jiménez

Flying with a pet can be expensive and confusing, with fees, weight limits, carrier size rules and the need to make sure there’s no loud barking (or meowing) on board.

Recently, American Airlines relaxed its pet policy to allow passengers to bring a carry-on bag in addition to a pet in a carrier, and more private flight options have been emerging in recent years for pet owners who can afford them.

Still, flying with large or medium-size dogs can be tricky, and many travelers are wary of leaving a pet in the plane’s cargo hold.

For those traveling on the major carriers with their pets as carry-ons, here’s what to know about each major domestic airline’s policy.

Southwest Airlines

On Southwest, a Dallas-based carrier, two checked bags can fly at no cost, but not pets. Southwest charges $125 per pet carrier on its flights.

Dogs or cats are allowed to travel below a seat in an approved carrier — up to 18.5 inches long by 8.5 inches high and 13.5 inches wide — according to the airline .

Southwest has a few caveats for those traveling with pets: The pet must stay in its carrier during the flight, and the carrier is considered a personal item or carry-on bag.

Up to six pets are allowed on Southwest flights. Once six pets are booked onto a flight, no further customers may add a pet companion to their booking.

United Airlines

United Airlines has no weight or breed restrictions for cats and dogs as long as they are in an approved hard or soft-sided carrier, measuring 17.5 inches long by 9 inches tall and 12 inches wide for a hard carrier, or 18 inches long by 11 inches tall and 11 inches wide for a soft carrier.

United charges $125 each way for travel with pets. There is no fee for service animals on United flights, but some forms are required before the flight.

The carrier must fit under a seat, and where a passenger is allowed to sit can vary according to the type of aircraft. For example, people traveling with pets cannot sit in emergency rows. If you’re traveling with two pets (the maximum allotted), you are required to book two seats.

Delta Air Lines

Small dogs and cats can travel on Delta Air Lines flights as long as they can fit inside a carrier stored below the seat. The size of the carrier depends on the aircraft, but in general the airline recommends a soft-sided carrier no larger than 18 inches long by 11 inches tall and 11 inches wide.

Your pet must be at least 8 weeks old and small enough to have some room to move around in the carrier, which must have ventilation openings on three sides.

Delta charges $95 for pets traveling as carry-on companions, and the passenger can bring only one personal item along with the pet. Certain seats cannot be booked for travel with an animal, such as those in an emergency exit row.

American Airlines

American Airlines allows cats and dogs to travel in a carry-on container, which must remain under the seat in front of the pet owner throughout the flight. The airline recommends a soft-sided carrier that measures 18 inches long by 11 inches tall and 11 inches wide.

The fee for a carry-on pet on a domestic American Airlines flight is $150.

Flights are limited to seven carry-on pets, not including service animals, and American Eagle flights are limited to five carry-on pets, with one in first class. There is no charge for service animals flying on American flight, but the airline requires forms to be filled out in advance.

The airline said in a statement that it had recently changed its cabin pet policy to allow customers with a pet to also bring either a personal item or carry-on bag stowed in the overhead bin (but not both).

“We made the change to provide a more convenient and comfortable experience to customers whose pets fly American,” the airline said.

Spirit, JetBlue, Frontier and Alaska

Spirit allows dogs and cats on its flights in a carrier no larger than 18 inches long by 14 inches wide and 9 inches tall for a fee of $125. The weight of the pet and the carrier cannot exceed 40 pounds, according to the airline .

Small dogs and cats can fly on JetBlue for fee of $125 each way , in an approved carrier. Up to six pets are allowed on JetBlue flights.

Frontier allows pets on board for a $99 fee each way, as long the pet fits in a carrier. Passengers can have only a personal item or carry-on in addition to their pet carrier.

Pets can travel in a carrier on Alaska Airlines flights for a fee of $100 each way. A passenger can travel with a pet carrier and a personal item, or a carrier and a carry-on bag.

Private or charter flights

Those who take their pets on private or charter flights, which can cost many thousands of dollars, have much more leeway. Dogs that weigh less than 150 pounds can sit on seats.

BarkAir, a charter operator tailored specifically for those flying with dogs, charges about $6,000 for a dog and its owner to travel, with flights between New York and Los Angeles and New York and London. Carriers are not required, and dogs can sit on laps, seats or beds.

Jesus Jiménez covers breaking news, online trends and other subjects. He is based in New York City. More about Jesus Jiménez

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