Importation of Foxes, Skunks, Raccoons and Ferrets

An import permit issued by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency is required for the importation of foxes, skunks, raccoons and ferrets from any country, with the exception of ferrets from the United States ⁽¹⁾.

Permits will not be issued for foxes, raccoons and skunks purchased for import to Canada as a personal pet. Permit issuance may be considered for an animal that is in the owner's possession in the country of origin and accompanies the owner to Canada. It is the owner's responsibility to contact the applicable provincial authorities to request permission to keep such animals as pets and to obtain any required documentation.

For laboratory research and scientific purposes, or for display in a recognized zoo, these animals must be imported under permit and are subject to a minimum thirty (30) day quarantine, but do not need to be accompanied.

Foxes, skunks, raccoons, and ferrets may be imported for commercial purposes (breeding stock).

For clarification of the Canadian Food Inspection Agency import policies, please contact a local CFIA Office.

⁽¹⁾ Ferrets from the United States can be imported into Canada without an import permit if they are presented at the port of entry with a vaccination certificate, which has been signed by a licensed veterinarian and which states that the animals have been vaccinated against rabies in the year preceding the date of import. Ferrets less than three months of age are not subject to any import restrictions.

Comments or requests for additional information.