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Flying with a dog or cat from Montréal to Punta Cana

The Dominican Republic accepts pets with a microchip, a rabies vaccination certificate and a recent health certificate. Official information is harder to find than for most countries, so confirm the details with the Dominican consulate and your airline before you go.

Plan, then confirm. This guide sums up the official rules as we found them. Rules change, and your airline has its own. Check every step with the sources below and your airline before you book.

Your trip, step by step

  1. Before you go

    • Microchip your pet (ISO standard); pet shippers report that no other form of identification is accepted.
    • Bring the original rabies vaccination certificate showing the microchip number.
    • Get a health certificate from a CFIA-accredited vet, endorsed by the CFIA, within about 10 days of your flight. Confirm the exact window with the Dominican consulate in Montréal.
    • Book pet-friendly accommodation: most Punta Cana resorts don't accept pets.

  2. At Montréal-Trudeau

    • There are relief areas after security near gate 47 (domestic), gate 62 (international) and gate 73 (US), and an outdoor area in the multi-level parking across from Door 25 on the arrivals level.
    • In the terminal, pets must be on a leash or in a carrier. At security, tell the screening officer you have a pet. You'll carry your pet through the walk-through scanner while the empty carrier goes through the X-ray.
    • Full Montréal-Trudeau airport guide

  3. The flight

    • Many winter nonstops (Air Transat, Air Canada, WestJet and others). Small pets can usually fly in the cabin, but pet spaces sell out in peak season, so add your pet when you book.

  4. Arriving in Punta Cana

    • Declare your pet and show your documents at customs. Keep copies of everything, including your passport.

  5. With your pet in Punta Cana

    • Heat and sun are the main risks: early and late walks, shade and lots of water.
    • Check beach rules at your accommodation, and keep your pet away from strays.

  6. Coming home

    • Coming home, use the CFIA's online pet import tool before you leave Canada so you know what you'll need at the border. Keep your pet's rabies vaccination certificate valid for the whole trip; dogs and cats 3 months and older usually need one to come back into Canada.

Questions

Can I bring my dog to Punta Cana?

Yes, with a microchip, a rabies certificate and a recent CFIA-endorsed health certificate. Most resorts don't take pets, so book a pet-friendly stay first.

Sources