Canada
*The information on this page was last updated on Jun 24, 2025.
1. Find a Dog for Adoption
Search through online listings, shelters, or rescue organizations (we provide a list of some options here). Contact the individual or organization managing the adoption to confirm whether they facilitate international adoptions and to learn about their specific process.
2. Choose the Right Dog
Even if you have prior experience, take the time to read, research, and educate yourself further about dog ownership. Carefully and honestly assess your family situation, current household members, and plans. Look through the listings to identify dogs that might be a good match for you.
Consider the dog’s age, breed, size, and temperament to ensure compatibility with your lifestyle. Don’t hesitate to request additional photos, videos, or detailed information about the dog.
Please also take a look at the Choosing a Dog section on our website.
3. Start the Process
If you haven’t already contacted the individual or organization, this is the stage to discuss whether the dog is eligible for international adoption and how the process works. Be prepared to provide detailed information about yourself, your family, your home, your lifestyle, and any prior experience with pets. This will allow the organization or volunteer to assess whether you and the dog are a good match. Once you receive approval for the adoption, the paperwork process begins.
4. Arrange Accommodation for Your Dog
While waiting for the paperwork to be finalized, your dog will need a place to stay. The volunteer or organization may suggest options such as a paid boarding kennel or a foster home.
Ideally, a foster home provides the dog with a safe and nurturing environment while awaiting travel. Foster parents handle daily needs, including feeding, exercise, and veterinary care. This can be a volunteer, friend, or family member.
If a foster home isn’t available, the dog can stay at a reputable boarding kennel for a fee. While not as personal as a home environment, a professional kennel ensures proper care and a secure space.
5. Prepare Travel Documents
The official procedures can be carried out by the dog’s registered owner or another authorized person. Depending on the dog’s status, the following documents will need to be arranged:
Pet passport, including updated vaccination records
Health certificates issued by a licensed veterinarian
Microchip implantation and registration
International travel permits from Turkish authorities
*Canada does not require the rabies titration certificate requested for European Union countries, which shortens the process compared to EU countries.
Please note: Government authorities occasionally change or update the required documents and procedures. Therefore, working with an experienced veterinarian and verifying the latest requirements through official sources is essential. Be sure to check the website of the Provincial or District Directorate of Agriculture and Forestry (İl/İlçe Tarım ve Orman Müdürlükleri) and also confirm details by phone. Below are the websites of some directorates that provide a detailed list of required documents:
6. Arrange Travel
Select a travel method that complies with regulations in Türkiye and the destination country.
👉 Book a flight for the dog, either accompanied by you, a friend, or a flight volunteer. Check the airline’s pet policies to ensure compliance.
Check the websites of airlines that frequently operate international flights from Türkiye and accept pet transport; THY
Organize an IATA-approved travel crate (ask your veterinarian or the adoption contact for guidance on crate size and model to meet regulations). One widely accepted brand on the market is Scudo, which is commonly used for international pet transport.
Then, prepare all necessary documents and finalize the travel itinerary.
7. Welcome Your Dog!
Once your dog arrives, give them time to adjust to their new home and routine. Seek veterinary follow-up if needed and enjoy building your life together! Click here for more information.
If you have more questions, we recommend checking our FAQ page. Beyond that, while timelines and costs can vary greatly, they can be summarized as follows:
COSTS OF ADOPTING A DOG FROM TÜRKİYE:
Adopting a dog from Türkiye involves several variable costs depending on your country of residence, the dog's breed, age, health, and logistical factors. Typical expenses include:
Vaccinations, rabies test and general health care (e.g., spaying/neutering)
Microchip and passport
Accommodation fees, if the dog stays in a foster home or kennel while awaiting travel, may include costs related to housing, feeding, and basic care during that period
Airline cargo fees, which vary depending on the dog’s size and weight, as well as the destination country and airline policies
Export documentation issued by the District Directorate of Agriculture, required by the customs authorities
HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE?
The timeline for adopting a dog from Türkiye to Canada depends on whether the dog’s travel documentation is already prepared.
For dogs with pre-arranged travel papers, the adoption process, including travel planning and final preparations, can often be completed within a few weeks.
Canada does not require a rabies titration certificate, which is mandatory for adoption in EU countries. This significantly shortens the overall timeline compared to EU adoptions.
In some cases, the wait time may be just a few days, depending on how quickly a flight volunteer is found and a suitable travel date is confirmed. Coordination with the adoption team is essential to ensure a smooth and timely relocation.
