Pet Transport from the Netherlands to Canada
Moving a dog or cat from Netherlands to Canada is very doable with the right preparation. Expect about 2-4 weeks, with a short and predictable checklist. There is no routine quarantine, provided the paperwork is in order. This route does not call for a rabies …
The Netherlands to Canada import process
Every step must be completed in sequence. A single missed deadline can add months to your timeline. We own the entire process.
Responsible: Licensed veterinarian in the Netherlands
Responsible: Owner or vet
Responsible: Owner or agent
Responsible: Owner
Responsible: Owner
What your pet needs to enter Canada
Every item must be verified before your pet can board. We track each one against current standards.
What this route typically costs
Critical points
Rabies vaccination certificate must be in English or French. Dutch-only certificates are not acceptable at the Canadian border.
KLM direct Amsterdam-Toronto and Amsterdam-Montreal services are among the most convenient options for this route. Book cargo space early as KLM pet cargo fills quickly on summer transatlantic routes.
Brachycephalic breeds face cargo restrictions on most airlines including KLM. Verify before booking.
Approved carriers for this route
Not all airlines accept live animals. We book only with carriers that handle live animal cargo correctly.
What Canada requires
Avoiding the common mistakes
Keep every original document together and take copies. Border officials want originals, and a missing signature or date can hold up clearance.
Work backwards from your travel date and add a buffer. Fixed waiting periods mean a single slipped appointment can push the whole move back by weeks.
Check the airline’s crate size and labelling rules early. An undersized or wrongly labelled crate is a frequent reason pets are refused at check-in.
Ask about temperature embargoes for your travel window. Summer and winter cargo restrictions can rule out certain routes and dates entirely.