Military Pet Moves (PCS)

Understanding Military Pet Relocations

Permanent Change of Station (PCS) moves present unique challenges for military families with pets. Unlike civilian relocations, military families often have limited control over timing, destination, and logistics. This guide covers special considerations, resources, and strategies to help make your pet's military relocation as smooth as possible.

Timeline Challenges and Solutions

Short Notice Orders

Military families sometimes receive PCS orders with minimal advance notice. While most relocations allow 3-6 months of preparation time, some may have only weeks or months to arrange pet transportation.

Emergency Preparation Strategies:

• Maintain current vaccinations: Keep rabies and core vaccines up to date always
• Annual health certificates: Consider getting yearly certificates even without travel plans
• Research potential duty stations: Familiarize yourself with requirements for likely destinations
• Build a pet relocation fund: Set aside emergency funds for unexpected relocation costs

Overlap Challenges

When report dates and household goods shipments don't align with pet travel requirements, military families may need creative solutions.

Financial Support and Allowances

Personally Procured Moves (PPM)

Military families can often include pet transportation costs in PPM calculations. This includes:

• Professional pet transportation services
• Airline pet fees
• Required health certificates and vaccinations
• Travel crates and accessories

What's NOT Covered

Generally, the military doesn't directly reimburse:

• Pet boarding during temporary lodging
• Extended quarantine costs
• Specialized veterinary treatments for travel
• Pet insurance

Unit and Base Resources

Many military installations offer support:

• Family Readiness Groups: Peer support and shared experiences
• Chaplain services: Emergency financial assistance in some cases
• Base veterinary clinics: Some services available for active duty families
• Relocation assistance: Information and referrals through family support centers

Destination-Specific Considerations

OCONUS (Outside Continental US) Assignments

🇩🇪 Germany

• EU Pet Passport required
• No quarantine with proper documentation
• Rabies titer test required from non-EU countries
• Preparation time: 4-6 months minimum

🇯🇵 Japan

• Rabies titer test required
• 180-day waiting period after satisfactory titer results
• No quarantine if requirements met exactly
• Preparation time: 7-8 months minimum

🇰🇷 South Korea

• Rabies titer test required
• 30-day waiting period after titer results
• Quarantine possible if documentation incomplete
• Preparation time: 3-4 months minimum

🏝️ Hawaii

• Extensive requirements for 5-day quarantine program
• 120-day quarantine if requirements not met
• High costs for quarantine ($1,000+)
• Preparation time: 4-5 months for 5-day program

Base Housing and Pet Policies

On-Base Housing

Military housing typically has specific pet policies:

• Registration required: Pets must be registered with housing office
• Breed restrictions: Some bases prohibit certain breeds
• Size/weight limits: Often 50-80 lb maximum
• Number limits: Usually 2 pets maximum per household
• Vaccination requirements: Must provide current vaccination records

Off-Base Housing

Consider these factors when choosing off-base housing:

• Local pet policies and restrictions
• Pet deposits and monthly fees
• Access to veterinary care
• Pet-friendly amenities (parks, grooming, etc.)

Special Military Resources

Operation Military Pets

Non-profit organization providing support for military families with pets during deployments and relocations.

Dogs on Deployment

Connects military families with volunteers who can foster pets during deployments or temporary assignments.

Military Family Life Counselors (MFLC)

Can provide support and resources for families dealing with pet-related stress during relocations.

Base Veterinary Services

Many bases offer limited veterinary services. Check with your base for:

• Vaccination clinics
• Basic health certificates
• Emergency care
• Referrals to off-base specialists

Deployment Considerations

Pet Care During Deployments

Options for pet care during deployments include:

• Family networks: Extended family or spouse's family
• Military families: Reciprocal arrangements with other military families
• Professional boarding: Long-term boarding facilities
• Foster networks: Organizations like Dogs on Deployment

Preparation for Reunification

Plan for pet transportation from foster care back to your family:

• Document all veterinary care during separation
• Maintain vaccination schedules
• Consider behavioral training if needed
• Budget for transportation costs

Emergency Situations

Last-Minute Orders

If you receive orders with insufficient time for proper pet preparation:

• Contact your chain of command: Explain the situation and request timing flexibility
• Explore temporary arrangements: Family, friends, or foster care until pet can follow
• Consider professional help: Pet relocation companies can expedite some processes
• Document everything: Keep records of attempts and challenges for future reference

Medical Emergencies

If your pet has health issues affecting travel:

• Get immediate veterinary assessment
• Obtain documentation of any travel restrictions
• Explore alternative transportation methods
• Consider temporary care arrangements

Cost Management Strategies

Budget Planning

Typical military pet relocation costs:

• Health certificates: $50-$200
• Vaccinations/titers: $100-$300
• USDA endorsement: $125-$200
• Airline transportation: $200-$1,000+ depending on size/destination
• Professional services: $500-$3,000+ for full-service relocation

Money-Saving Tips

• Start early to avoid rush fees
• Compare airline pet policies and fees
• Use base veterinary services when available
• Connect with other military families for shared resources
• Consider driving instead of flying when feasible