By Rabia Khan

Dogs are innocent creatures that make any dull day bright. The high risk of rabies has cautioned the Canadian government. They are taking into account the health and well-being of all humans and animals involved. The recent ban on street dogs from over 100 countries is to reduce the risk of rabies getting into Canada after two dogs from Iran were found to be infected. Some veterinary organizations welcome the ban and say that it is better to be safe than sorry. The Canadian Veterinarian Medical Association also supports the ban. Support is based on the threat to human life and also to the lives of pets if all these devastating canine rabies was allowed to spread. It is regulated to protect all concerned.

Health is the primary concern. Even if a dog has to be adopted there needs to be information about its health. There are a lot of animal rescue organizations that have pets that match your needs. They have unique breeds or sizes or types of animals that may appeal to you. Canada has a lot of unwanted pets needing homes or shelters. Saving a dog may be like saving a life if you have the resources at your behest. Remember that they also need a proper health check by a certified vet.

The requirement for dogs coming into Canada for adoption is that they are vaccinated against rabies. So a rabies vaccination is a must.

Below is further information about pet adoption and bringing dogs into Canada:

When a dog enters Canadian territory, it undergoes an inspection. It costs $40 for the first pet entering Canada and an additional $7.00 for each additional pet. A plane ticket is also mandatory when a dog is flying which costs anywhere from $100 to $200 each way. One passenger per dog is permitted. Once a ticket has been purchased, the dog can be put in a carrier and placed under the seat in front of the owner.

Canada requires that you microchip your pet with a fifteen-digit ISO 11784-compliant pet microchip and register your contact information in case of an emergency or if you lose your pet.

Dogs that come from another country to be transferred to another person for sale or adoption, as well as show, exhibition, or research, will be classified as commercial.

For all dogs entering Canada, proof of age, health certificate, ownership, and also rabies vaccination certificate is mandatory. Not all pet owners seem to have this information about their dogs.

Assistance dogs that act as a guide or any other service are not subject to any restrictions, but only if the dog is accompanied by its owner.