July 7, 2024

Hey Friends,

So, you're PCS-ing to Hawaii with a furry friend from Hampton Roads, Virginia? No worries, as a mil-spouse and a former Navy Ombudsman, I’ve got you covered with step-by-step resources to make this journey as smooth as a fresh jar of JIF. Let's dive in!

Step 1: Research and Prepare

Know the Rules: Hawaii is rabies-free, so they have strict pet importation rules. Make sure you understand the requirements well in advance. Check out the Hawaii Department of Agriculture’s Animal Quarantine Information Page for detailed information.

Vet Visits: Schedule an appointment with your veterinarian to discuss travel plans and get up-to-date on vaccinations. Ensure your pet is microchipped.

Step 2: Rabies Vaccinations and Blood Tests

First Rabies Vaccine: Ensure your pet has a current rabies vaccination, administered at least 30 days before travel.

Second Rabies Vaccine: Administer another rabies vaccine if the first one was over 12 months ago.

FAVN Test: Your pet will need a FAVN (Fluorescent Antibody Virus Neutralization) blood test. The result must be sent to an approved lab, showing a sufficient level of rabies antibodies. Learn more about the FAVN test in the Hawaii Department of Agriculture’s brochure.

Step 3: Quarantine Procedures

120-Day Waiting Period: After the FAVN test, there’s a 120-day waiting period before your pet can enter Hawaii. Plan your timeline accordingly.

Direct Release Program: If you follow all steps correctly, your pet might qualify for direct release at the airport, avoiding quarantine. For more details, check out this guide from Starwood Pet Travel.

Step 4: Health Certificate and Documentation

Health Certificate: Obtain a health certificate within 10 days of your departure. This must be endorsed by a USDA-accredited veterinarian.

Documents: Gather all necessary documents, including rabies vaccination certificates, FAVN test results, and the health certificate.

Step 5: Airline Arrangements

Book a Pet-Friendly Flight: Not all airlines allow pets, so choose one that does. Book your flight and inform the airline about your pet in advance.

Pet Carrier: Ensure you have an airline-approved pet carrier. It should be comfortable, well-ventilated, and appropriately sized.

Step 6: Pre-Travel Preparations

Pet Comfort: Acclimate your pet to the carrier. Include familiar items like a favorite toy or blanket.

Feeding Schedule: Adjust feeding times to align with travel. Avoid feeding your pet a large meal right before the flight.

Exercise: Give your pet plenty of exercise before the trip to help them relax.

Step 7: Travel Day

Double-Check Everything: Verify you have all necessary documents and your pet is ready to go.

Airport Arrival: Arrive early at the airport to allow time for pet check-in procedures.

Stay Calm: Your pet can sense your stress. Stay calm to help them feel secure.

Step 8: Arrival in Hawaii

Inspection: Upon arrival, your pet will undergo an inspection. If all paperwork is in order, they may be eligible for direct release.

Quarantine (if necessary): If any requirements were not met, your pet might have to stay in quarantine. Ensure you understand the procedures if this happens.

Reimbursement for Pet-Related PCS Expenses

Pet Reimbursement: The Department of Defense now reimburses pet expenses due to PCS moves. Check out the official announcement and fact sheet for details. Navy personnel can find specific information in the Navy’s reimbursement fact sheet.

Final Thoughts

PCS-ing with a pet to Hawaii can be a bit of a journey, but with careful planning and preparation, you and your furry friend will be enjoying the Aloha spirit in no time. Mahalo!

Your partner in all things real estate,

Ally

PCSing soon? Need help navigating your move? Want to request a personalized PCS plan to help make it as stress-free as can be? Set up a Real Estate Goals Consultation Here: Let's Get In Touch!