Rules for Bringing Sugar Gliders Across the U.S./Canadian Border

Sugar gliders are small marsupials from Australia, Indonesia and Papua New Guinea that are commonly kept as pets in many countries. When traveling from the U.S. to Canada or vice versa, government and airline guidelines dictate several aspects of your sugar glider's travel accommodations. Being prepared and meeting these accommodations will make your and your sugar glider's trip less stressful.

  1. Auto and Land Travel

    • While few cruise ships allow pets, most ferries accept most domestic pets.

      When traveling with your sugar glider by car, provide a safe, secure travel cage with food and water in the cage or offered often. Canada does not require sugar gliders to have any vaccines, but it does require a health inspection upon entering the country. As of 2010, a pet health inspection is about $30. Although the United States does not charge an inspection fee, it does require a clean bill of health for gliders as well.

    Air Travel

    • Most pet supply stores carry airline-approved pet carriers.

      If traveling by air, your glider's travel accommodations will vary among airlines. Along with a health inspection for entering into Canada, most airlines require a health certificate from a licensed vet stating your pet is free from illness or disease and healthy enough to endure the stress of flying. The letter must be issued within 10 days before the day of departure. Some airlines do not permit pets other than cats and dogs in the cabin; therefore, your sugar glider will have to travel by cargo or as checked baggage.

    Travel to the United States

    • When traveling by air into the United States, you must provide a health certificate from a licensed veterinarian stating your glider has a clean bill of health. If your glider shows signs of illness, shock, aggression or sedation, the airline can refuse to permit travel. Also, all airlines require the sugar glider to be caged in an airline-approved pet carrier. Not all airlines have the same regulations about carrier types and sizes, but each airline can provide that information when you book your flight.

    Considerations

    • Many airlines restrict flying any animal in extreme temperatures.

      When traveling with your pet, keep all documentation within easy reach (preferably attached to your pet's crate) because you will be asked for this information several times during your trip. Along with a health certificate, keep a record of feeding and watering schedule along with food and water in case your glider is traveling cargo or baggage. Having proper identification of ownership such as a certificate or microchip tag is also helpful if your pet has to be quarantined for any reason.