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Canada is one of the most straightforward destinations for UK pet owners. The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) classifies the UK as a rabies-free country for import purposes, which simplifies documentation considerably. There is no quarantine on arrival. Toronto Pearson (YYZ) is the largest pet-cargo airport in eastern Canada; Calgary (YYC) handles arrivals into Alberta and western Canada.
Air Canada is the most commonly used carrier and operates many direct cargo routes from the UK — not only to Toronto and Calgary but to other Canadian gateways too. Air Transat also offers a direct route to Toronto (YYZ). British Airways and WestJet serve the routes as well, and Air Canada has dedicated AC Cargo Live pet handling staff.
Clearance typically takes 1–3 hours at either gateway. After clearance, register your pet according to your province/municipality rules (Toronto and Calgary both require licensing within 30 days).
Yes — even with self-clearance there are still landing fees and handling charges payable to the airline and ground handler, typically around £200 (US dollar equivalent depending on the airport). Self-clearance saves you the broker’s fee but does not avoid the airport’s standard charges for receiving and processing a live-animal shipment.
Customs clearance for pets entering the USA usually takes around 2 to 3 hours, depending on the port of entry, the time of day, and the volume of cargo being processed. Major hubs like JFK, LAX, and Chicago O’Hare are typically quickest. Clearance can take considerably longer if you choose to clear your pet yourself without prior experience of the process, which is why we recommend using a customs broker.
It depends on the port of entry. US airports are designated either as “formal” or “informal” ports of entry, and most airlines specify that at formal ports owners cannot self-clear and must use a registered broker. At informal ports, owner self-clearance is permitted, but Airpets strongly recommends using a broker regardless — customs procedures vary significantly between airports, and a missed step can lead to lengthy delays. Self-clearance is only sensible if you’re already familiar with both the process and the specific airport.
Moving to or visiting New York with your pets? This guide covers the city's most dog-friendly neighbourhoods, pet-welcoming hotels, public transport rules, and standout activities like Prospect Park's Dog Beach — plus how to get your pet there safely with Airpets.
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