Flying Pets To North America
North America, including the USA and Canada, is one of the most popular destinations for pet travel. With direct flights from South Africa to many major North American cities, the journey is straightforward, and pets typically handle it well—although you might need to adjust to their “jetlag” when they arrive!
SkyPets specializes in guiding pet owners through the entire process of relocating their beloved companions to North America. With decades of experience, we ensure your pets travel safely, comfortably, and in full compliance with all entry requirements.
Flying Pets to Canada
Canada is a top choice for South African emigrants, and it’s simple to bring your pets along. Cats and dogs need:
- A microchip for identification,
- A rabies vaccination (or alternative paperwork confirming South Africa’s rabies status), and
- A health certificate issued within five days of the flight.
Canada does not require quarantine for pets arriving from South Africa, and young pets under 8 months old can also travel, though they must meet slightly different regulations. SkyPets can help navigate these specific requirements and select the best direct flights with trusted airlines for your pet’s journey.
Flying Pets to the USA
The USA is one of the most common destinations for flying pets from South Africa. With excellent airline connections to cities across the country, your furry friends can travel comfortably, even on long-haul flights like those to Los Angeles.
To ensure entry into the USA, pets need a health check to confirm they are fit to fly. While a rabies vaccination is highly recommended and sometimes required depending on the state (e.g., Florida enforces this rule strictly), it is not mandatory in all cases. Without a rabies vaccination, owners may need to sign a confinement agreement to keep their pet isolated from other animals for at least 30 days after vaccination.
Kittens and puppies should be at least 4 months old to meet vaccination timing guidelines. Pets for resale or commercial purposes may require additional permits and documentation. SkyPets can guide you through these regulations and manage all veterinary preparations to ensure smooth entry into the USA.