DOGS WITHOUT BORDERS
We knew that driving from Utah to Alaska would cross country borders, obviously, but what we didn’t realize was that we would do it a total of 12 times before our trip was through. Each time was a bit different, but we hope that this post will help you feel confident in traveling to and through Canada with your pooch.
BRING PROPER PAPERWORK*: Your vet will happily help with this, but the required paperwork is a certification of current rabies vaccinations. Ours simply emailed us a copy of their records that states when their next shot was due, we printed them and highlighted that specific part, and had them with us at each border crossing.
TRAVEL WITH A HEALTHY DOG: You should not travel with a sick pet regardless, but dogs with ailments will not be permitted across country lines.
MICROCHIPS ARE NOT REQUIRED: But they are absolutely worth having in case your pup runs away, and on that note, make sure that if you do have a microchip, all of your information is up to date.
COMMERCIALLY SEALED PET FOOD: Treats and food can cross the border, but it needs to have been packaged in the US. Also, if you plan on traveling for an extended period it’s a good idea to check where your particular brand is carried in Canada. Dogs with sensitive stomachs will appreciate the consistency.
Once you cross the border you will want to be prepared for life in the Great White North, here are some of our tips:
CARRY BEAR SPRAY: this is just good practice, always, to protect you and your pup. It’s not just for bears; moose have been known to be incredibly aggressive during their rut season. I’ll take this tip one step further and say that you should know how to use the spray.
PACK LAYERS: think about what you’re packing for your own attire and consider the same for your dog. Booties? Blankets? A down jacket? Dogs get cold too, and hot. Their comfort should be a priority to you.
LEASH LAWS: one of the most exciting things about hiking in Canada with your dog is that you can finally bring them into National Parks! 6-foot leads are required, no matter how trail-savvy your dog is. Please, please, pack out any dog waste as well. Visiting NPs is such a luxury and fellow dog owners don’t want it to be taken away because of a few that don’t follow the rules.
WATER IS FAST AND COLD: Many of the rivers are glacier-fed, meaning they are cold as heck. If your pup loves to swim please take note of the current and temperature so they don’t ‘get in over their head.’
GAS STATIONS: usually the perfect opportunity to let fido stretch his legs, but in Canada every gas station we went to had signs saying dogs were not allowed on the premises. Most had areas around the corner where you were able to let them out, but keep that in mind when you’re thinking about where and when to stop for potty breaks.
The trip was fantastic, and everyone we met along the way was so helpful and welcoming. We hope to make the drive many, many more times, with our canine companions in tow of course!