Air Canada: Requirements & Policies

Carrier Requirements & Policies: Air Canada

Acceptance

ESA (Emotional Support Animals): Accepted with Conditions
PSA (Psychiatric Support Animals): Accepted
Service Animals: Accepted

Quick Checklist (Bring to the Airport)

Required Documentation & Gear (must bring)

Physical ID Card (animal & handler identification).
Recognition Gear: Service Animal vest, bandana, or harness.
Air Canada Special Assistance Approval (required for Service Dogs & PSAs).
U.S. DOT Service Animal Air Transportation Form for flights to/from the United States.
Veterinary Health Certificate depending on destination requirements.
Microchip (ISO-compliant) for international travel.
Rabies Vaccination Certificate according to destination-country rules.
Pet-in-Cabin Requirements for ESA-style travel: carrier size limits & paid pet fee.

Preferred Documentation (greatly facilitates acceptance and pre-clearance)

Registration Certificate (our approved registry is accepted by all airlines).
Prescription Letter confirming PSA or Service Dog status from a licensed professional.
Behavior Certificate confirming calm temperament and public-safe behavior.

Steps to Take (in Order)

Apply for Air Canada Special Assistance approval immediately after booking.
Submit DOT forms when flying to or from the United States.
Ensure pet-in-cabin ESA travel meets carrier size, weight, and fee requirements.
Arrive early and bring both printed and digital copies of all documents.

Route Limitations (Assistance Animals)

Service Dogs and psychiatric service dogs are accepted on all Air Canada routes.
ESAs may travel as pets in cabin for a fee, following carrier dimensions and weight limits.
International routes (EU, UK, U.S., Asia) may require additional veterinary certificates.
Space restrictions may apply on regional aircraft.
Some destinations may prohibit animal entry without advance authorization.

Forms & Official Policy (Links)

Source: Air Canada assistance-animal policy and international travel requirements.