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Group Transport Chat
A dedicated group chat is created for all families expecting dogs from the upcoming transport. This is typically set up just a few weeks before the projected arrival date to keep everyone informed and organized.
Paperwork
Our volunteers work tirelessly to prepare all the necessary transport paperwork. With so many details to manage, every document must be completed with precision and care.
Dogs
Preparing the dogs for travel is a team effort. From spay/neuter surgeries to microchipping and vaccines, each pup requires varying levels of vet care. It’s a busy and exciting time for our Texas team as they ensure every dog is ready for their journey to a new beginning!
Our rescue dogs are carefully placed in crates aboard a climate-controlled transport truck. Over 2–3 days, they make their journey across the U.S. to the Canadian border, stopping for walks, feeding, and trailer cleaning to keep them comfortable and cared for.
Stay in the Loop
Updates will be shared in the transport group chat, keeping you informed about the transport’s progress and the estimated arrival time.
How Can You Prepare?
Consider taking the day off work for the anticipated arrival date.
Be flexible and perpared for change! Arrival times and dates can change unexpectedly due to weather, road conditions, traffic, or border delays.
Please note: Pick-up locations are subject to change and will be announced.
U.S. Pick-Ups (Outside Texas)
There may be multiple pick-up locations, and arrival times can vary.
Canadian Pick-Ups
Currently, there are two locations in New Brunswick (no transport options farther into Nova Scotia or beyond).
You’ll be asked to choose your preferred pick-up location via a poll.
1st Stop: St. Stephen/Rothesay
Included in the adoption fee.
Approximately a 1.5-hour drive from the border.
2nd Stop: Moncton/Aulac
$50 CAD fee for fuel and generator use (fosters are exempt).
Fee is non-refundable if you change your pick-up choice.
Payment instructions are provided closer to the transport date.
When you send payment please send with subject line / title: " Transport, Month, Year - Dog Name"
Approximately a 2-hour drive from the 1st stop.
Our goal is to reach the border as early as possible, but we must wait for the broker to finalize paperwork and give the green light for entry.
Overview
Canadian Border Services Inspectors ensure the dogs meet strict health and safety standards to prevent the spread of diseases.
Inspectors also verify that the dogs have been transported humanely and safely.
Paperwork is highly detailed and must be completed with precision.
Important Notes
The time needed to clear customs is highly unpredictable and can take several hours.
Drivers are unable to access their phones while going through customs.
Once there’s updated information, you will be notified through the transport group chat.
We understand everyone is excited and eager to meet their new family member. However, please refrain from contacting border services, politicians, or other officials if there are delays.
What to bring: Leash, Bowl, water, food, pet wipes, blankets, crate & a sign with your dog’s rescue given name.
What you will receive: A packet of papers that includes a photo of your dog, microchip #, & rabies certificate (if applicable) All other medical records are available online to all adopters during the adoption process & anytime after! Do not leave without your dog’s paperwork.
What to do when the truck arrives: The Anna's Angels volunteers will identify themselves to you, follow their instruction. Line up with your sign with the dog's name on it and wait for them to call your name. Pass them your leash and they get your pup. Please stay back from the doors as some dogs may not do well in the crowded environment. Once you have your dog, move away from the truck and any others *not all dogs are dog friendly*
Remember:
Double check your dog to ensure it actually is your dog!
Hold your leashes tight.
Give each dog space and do not let them near each other. Not all dogs are dog friendly!
They will need a bathroom break before heading home.
Your pup may be a little smelly, you will want to put a blanket over your seats and bring pet wipes.
If you are transporting 2 dogs in the same vehicle, at least 1 of the dogs must be in a crate for safety.
The transport company decides where the stops occur. These sites are non-negotiable and pre-determined.
The date given for arrival is an estimate. There is always risk of delayed arrival. Updates will be given in the transport chat.
Occasionally, there have been dogs that can’t cross the border until the next day. If you are coming before they cross the border, be sure to bring everything you would need (medication, etc) if your dog is delayed and you choose to wait.
Families will be notified when the transport has made it to the border. The drivers are not allowed to use their cell phones at the border so we have no idea how the crossing is going until they have cleared customs.
In almost all cases, don’t leave home to pick up the dog until the transport has cleared customs unless you are a considerable distance away. All times are only estimates.
There are dog friendly hotels in the area. If the weather is bad and people need help, volunteers and other adopters step up to help. This is addressed on a case by case basis.
Let the volunteers know in the group chat and your dog will be kept safe until you can arrive.
Dog leash, Sign with your dog’s rescue given name on it, blankets, leash, food, water, pet wipes
Transport to NS/ Halifax is not an option. If there is an issue, you can ask in your dog’s private chat for help.
If the arrival or border crossing takes a very long time, it is very possible it will be very late when it is time for pick up. We apologize for any inconvenience. We want to get the dogs out of their crates ASAP so ask that adopters plan to pick up the dogs at the pick up locations, even if it is late.