BaseReady PCS Guides

PCS With Pets 2026 — Military Move Guide for Dogs, Cats & Exotic Animals

Airline cabin policies, OCONUS import rules by country, vet records checklist, and on-post breed restrictions — everything military pet families need.

OCONUS Pet Import Rules at a Glance
CountryQuarantine RiskLead Time Needed
JapanUp to 180 days if unprepared12–14 months
HawaiiUp to 120 days if unprepared5+ months
Germany (EU)0 days if complete docs60+ days
South Korea0 days if complete docs30–60 days
Italy (EU)0 days if complete docs60+ days
HowTo: PCS With Pets Step by Step
1

Schedule vet appointment 60+ days before PCS

Book with a USDA-accredited vet. Confirm they can issue and sign the official USDA health certificate.

2

Verify and update microchip registration

Confirm ISO 15-digit microchip is registered in a US database and update contact info to your new duty station address.

3

Verify pet policy at gaining installation housing

Call the housing office and ask specifically about breed restrictions, weight limits, and number of pets allowed. Get the policy in writing.

4

Book airline pet reservation immediately

Call the airline the same day your tickets are issued. Cabin pet spots are limited (4–6 per flight) and fill fast.

5

Get USDA-endorsed health certificate within 10 days of travel

The health certificate is valid for only 10 days from the vet's signature. Time your appointment accordingly.

6

Prepare pet comfort kit for travel day

Pack water, food, familiar toys, anxiety aids (vet-approved), and cleanup supplies. Do not sedate your pet without veterinary guidance.

Vet Records Checklist
ISO 15-digit microchip record
Current rabies vaccination certificate
USDA health certificate (10-day window)
USDA APHIS endorsement (OCONUS)
Complete vaccination history
Heartworm test results
Flea/tick treatment records
OIE-FAVN titer test results (Japan/Hawaii)
Frequently Asked Questions
Which airlines allow pets in the cabin for a military PCS?
American, Delta, United, Alaska, and Southwest allow small dogs and cats (under ~20 lbs including carrier) in cabin on CONUS routes. No US commercial airline allows pets as checked baggage internationally. Large dogs traveling internationally fly as air cargo through approved services.
What vet records do I need to PCS with my pet?
CONUS minimum: rabies certificate, microchip record, USDA health certificate within 10 days of travel. OCONUS: Germany needs EU certificate + USDA endorsement. Japan requires OIE-FAVN titer test passed 180+ days before arrival. Hawaii requires OIE-FAVN titer + 90-day wait.
How do I find pet-friendly housing on post?
Contact the housing office at your gaining installation before accepting orders. Breed bans (pit bull types, Rottweilers, Dobermans) vary by installation. Off-post rentals near bases are typically more flexible on breeds and weight limits.
Can I bring exotic animals (reptiles, birds, rabbits) on a military PCS?
Most airlines don't transport birds or reptiles. Many countries ban or restrict exotic animal imports. CITES permits are required for listed species. Contact your gaining base's vet clinic and destination country's embassy 12+ months in advance.
Is pet transportation reimbursed by the military?
Reimbursement is very limited under the Joint Travel Regulations. Most pet transport costs are out-of-pocket. OCONUS quarantine fees are almost never reimbursed. Budget $500–$2,000+ for CONUS moves and $2,000–$10,000+ for OCONUS moves with complex import requirements.

Full Pet PCS Guide on BaseReady

Detailed pet import checklists, OCONUS timelines, and base housing pet policies — free, no sign-up.

Pet PCS Guide