We're taking a trip from the US to the Hamilton/Toronto area, and we're thinking of taking our small, well-behaved dog along. Does anyone have experience with taking a dog across the border? Is it really as easy as taking the signed vet's certificate, or will we experience lengthy delays? Are there good walking areas in/near Hamilton?

I'm not sure about bringing your dog a cross, but from what I understand it is no problem as long as you have the certificate

Yes there are beautiful areas to walk near Hamilton I will let you know more when I get home from work. But to start with, google Bruce Trail

Lots of places with a dog on a leash.

Fewer places with a dog NOT on a leash. But still some.

Several leash free parks in Burlington, more in Oakville, which are both just east of Hamilton.

Hotels have varying policies on being dog-friendly.

About the ease of border-crossing... my friend Rudy the Viszla is being taken care of by his human uncle because his regualr human parents thought it was more trouble than it was worth to take Rudy with them into the USA last week.

Let's see what other responses you get.

And I'll ask some travellingdog owners.

BAK

We take our dog across the border all the time. The only requirement is that they have an up to date rabies shot. I have never once been asked to see the proof nor have I been asked if she is indeed vacinated. I think they are more concerned with dogs being imported/exported for sale. The know a good family pet when they see one!! We never travel without her.

wlrdtrvlr05, that is good to hear. Thanks for confirming how easy it is.

Crispy, here is a web site that will lead you to tons of trails.
http://www.hamiltonnature.org/public...ham/hiking.htm

Dogs must be on a leash in Ontario, except in the dog parks.
I'm sure your little guy will have a good trip!

Thanks for the great responses! Yogi travels with us often, but we were concerned that crossing the border might entail unusual delays. And he's always on a leash when we walk, so that's no problem. We're looking forward to our visit!

We recently travelled to Dearborn Michigan(we are from Toronto) and the border guards on both sides did not ask for anything. We brought our Golden Retriever with us along with her papers and they did not say anything. Did not ask to see them. Honestly we were more concerned about your side as they tend to be very stern, but everything was fine. I would bring the dog and the up to date papers , it should be fine.

Oh do not know if you are coming to Toronto, but we have lots of great dog parks downtown.

http://www.pets.ca/dogparks/ontario.htm