Every April, World Pet Day reminds us of the joy, comfort and companionship animals bring into our lives. For physicians who have made the life-changing move to Nova Scotia, that bond becomes even more meaningful. Between new healthcare systems, communities and climates, their pets have been a steady source of grounding and sometimes a little comic relief.
We spoke with the four-legged companions (through their physician pawrents) about their experience moving to Nova Scotia.
Arlo (Professional Napper), Dr. David Fitzgerald & Isabel – Halifax
Hi, I’m Arlo. I’m a corgi mix, nine years young and an expert in sleeping, snacking and strategic belly exposure.
I moved from Philadelphia to Nova Scotia in what my humans called a “road trip adventure”. Personally, I think I handled it like a pro. Three days, multiple snacks stops and a ferry ride? Not bad. Crossing the border was easy too (they checked my papers, I’m very official).
These days, I spend my time strolling the Halifax Common and scouting out future beach naps. My human, Dr. David Fitzgerald, practises headache medicine at the QEII Pain Management Unit. I make sure to greet him with maximum tail wags. It’s basically medical support.
Advice: Nova Scotia is incredibly dog friendly. From housing to vet care, everything was easy to navigate, so don’t hesitate to bring your pet along.
Professor Oak & Cleo (Chaos & Calm Duo), Dr. Daniel Burke & Alexandrine Martine– Antigonish
Cleo here: Explorer. Adventurer. Occasional escape artist. I once learned how to open zippers, no big deal.
Oak speaking: I prefer a simpler life. Sunbeam, window view, food, repeat.
We were adopted from Ireland and Quebec, and moved to Nova Scotia, and while the humans stressed about vaccinations and timing, we focused on settling in.
Our human practises family medicine in Antigonish and says we made the transition much easier. Obviously.
Advice: Do your research early, especially vaccinations and timelines. It takes planning but bringing your pets is absolutely worth it.
Fen (Gentle Giant Energy), Dr. Arran Seiler & Robyn Mendlow – Halifax
Name is Fen. Irish Wolfhound. Tall and majestic.
Moving to Halifax was a long drive, but I don’t mind, I had my humans. Now? Life is good. I’ve claimed a few favourite spots, including brewery patios and off-leash adventures at Point Pleasant Park.
My human works in Anesthesia, which sounds serious. So, every day when he gets home, I throw a full celebration in his honour. You’re welcome, by the way.
Advice: Expect a walkable pet-friendly city with lots of patios, parks and welcoming spaces. Finding housing with a large dog may take extra effort but it’s absolutely doable.
Oxford & Mohka (The Dynamic Duo), Dr. Rebecca Dixon & Anne Kieryn – Antigonish
Oxford: Small but mighty. Terrier. Influencer.
Mokha: calm, loyal, professional cuddle provider.
We’ve lived all over. But Nova Scotia? This is the place. Beaches, trails, farmers markets… I even did a food review once.
Our human, Dr. Rebecca Dixon, is a pediatrician in Antigonish and says we helped her explore and settle in faster.
Advice: Nova Scotia is one of the most pet-friendly places we’ve lived. If you’re moving here, your pets will love it just as much as you do.
Dougal (Certified Adventure Buddy), Dr. David Smylie and Nicola – Eastern Passage
Dougal here. Fox Red Labrador, outdoor enthusiast, cheese connoisseur.
My journey from New Zealand took 48 hours. Planes, crates, pit stops…but I handled it like a champ. When I arrived, I could tell right away: Nova Scotia = trails, beaches, freedom.
My human practises family medicine in Eastern Passage and I make sure he gets outside every day. Between Shubie Park and dog-friendly beaches, we’re never bored.
Advice: Plan ahead for pet travel and costs, but don’t worry! Nova Scotia has excellent vet care, plenty of pet-friendly housing and a welcoming dog-loving community.
Luma & Krummel (Snow-Loving Explorers), Dr. Colin Marais & Henriette – Antigonish
Luma: Gentle. Majestic. Snow enthusiast.
Krummel: Professional snuggler. Slightly shy. Very lovable.
We came all the way from South Africa and let us tell you! Snow is AMAZING. We’ve been on countless adventures across beaches, forests and trails.
Our human practises obstetrics and gynecology at St. Martha’s Regional Hospital and says we helped make Nova Scotia feel like home much faster.
Advice: Work with a trusted pet transport company and prepare your paperwork. Most importantly, bring your pets. They’ll help you settle in more than anything else.
Fidi (The Emotional Support MVP) & Dr. Punit Sachdev – Halifax
Hi I’m Fidi. Pug. Charmer. Crowd favourite.
I made the move from the U.S. with ease. Honestly, the border guards even played with me. I go hiking, visit parks and most importantly, provide top-tier emotional support.
My human works in hospitalist medicine at the QEII in Halifax and says I’ve been essential to his well-being.
Advice: Don’t stress about bringing your pet, especially from the U.S. The process is straightforward, and you’ll find Canada to be welcoming and pet friendly.
More than pets, they’re home
Across Nova Scotia, one thing is clear: pets are more than companions, their anchors. They help physicians build routines, meet new people, explore new places and feel at home faster.
All pets featured in this story were compensated generously for their interview time in belly rubs, treats and the occasional extra walk.
If you’re considering a move to Nova Scotia with your own four-legged companion, be sure to connect with our recruitment team and learn more about opportunities across the province. You can also review the Government of Canada’s guidelines for bringing pets into the country to help you prepare for a smooth journey.
