PCS Guide to Moving With Pets in the Military

Your PCS orders just arrived, which means the clock is ticking on your relocation. And while you might be ready for your next adventure, one family member can’t help with packing—your pet. 

In the military, moving with pets comes with some unique challenges. Overseas quarantine requirements, breed restrictions and international regulations can all complicate your PCS plans. The good news is that thousands of military families successfully move with their pets every year. With early planning and the right approach, your next PCS can include your beloved companion—with minimal stress for everyone involved.

The basics of military pet relocation

When you get PCS orders, your pet’s move isn’t handled like items you own. Moving with pets during a PCS requires careful planning and coordination—and understanding a few key factors can help you plan better.

Where you move makes a big difference

Making military moves within the continental United States (CONUS) is usually straightforward. You can drive with your pet or fly them commercially without too many restrictions. Moving overseas (OCONUS) is more complex. Different countries have strict rules about which animals can enter, what shots they need and how long they must stay in quarantine.

Each military branch offers support

All branches provide basic guidance through Military OneSource, but specific programs vary. The Department of Defense (DOD) also recently approved a new policy to cover pet travel expenses incurred by Servicemembers. 

Some bases also have veterinary services that can help with required paperwork. Others offer discounts with pet relocation companies.

Challenges with timing and costs

Pet preparations often take months—much longer than your typical PCS timeline. Health certificates expire quickly, so timing is critical. Costs can add up fast, especially for overseas moves where you might pay for quarantine, special flights and professional pet transport services.

The key to a successful military pet relocation? Starting early with a clear plan. A little preparation goes a long way in reducing stress for both you and your pet(s).

Phase I: Pre-move preparation (3-6 months ahead)

PCS orders can come at any time. The earlier you start preparing for your pet’s move, the smoother everything will go. Here’s your timeline for getting everything ready when those orders finally arrive—whether you’re moving within the US or overseas.

• Get up to date on vaccinations: Most destinations require current rabies, DHPP (for dogs) and FVRCP (for cats) vaccines. Some countries also require additional shots like rabies titers—blood tests that prove your pet’s rabies immunity levels. These tests can take 4-6 weeks to process.
• Schedule a health exam: Your vet needs to issue a health certificate, which is like a passport for your pet. This document confirms your pet is healthy enough to travel. Health certificates are only valid for 10-30 days, so timing matters. For international moves, your health certificates usually need USDA endorsement. This adds another 1-2 weeks to the process.
• Consider microchipping: Many countries require pets to have microchips for identification. If your pet doesn’t have one, get it done early. The microchip needs to be implanted before the rabies vaccine to meet some international requirements.
• Research import requirements: Every country and even some states have different rules. The USDA APHIS website has country-specific guides that list exactly what you need. Many countries require you to apply for permission to bring your pet before you travel. These permits can take weeks or months to approve.
• Check quarantine requirements: Some countries require pets to stay in government facilities for days or weeks after arrival. Others allow "home quarantine," where your pet stays with you but can’t leave your house. Plan arrival timing around these requirements.

Phase II: Travel logistics and transportation (1-2 months ahead)

Once your paperwork is ready and you know your destination’s requirements, it’s time to figure out how your pet will get to your new duty station. You have several options, and the right choice depends on your destination and your pet’s temperament:

• Flying: Small pets (usually under 20 pounds) can travel in the cabin with you in an airline-approved carrier. Larger pets must travel as checked baggage or cargo. Cargo sounds scary, but it’s temperature-controlled and monitored—many pets travel this way safely every day.
• Driving: If you’re staying within the continental US, a road trip might be your best option. You can control the environment, make stops when needed and keep your pet with you the whole time. Just plan for extra travel days and pet-friendly hotels.
• Military pet relocation services: Military relocation specialists have knowledge and experience moving pets. They can help manage the process from pickup to delivery to make sure your pet arrives safely. These specialists are expensive but worth considering for complex international moves or if you’re dealing with multiple pets.

Phase III: Book and prep for travel (1-2 months ahead)

Moving can be very stressful for pets. The more you can do to prepare for your PCS move or deployment, the calmer everyone will be. These steps can help keep stress low for both you and your pet:

• Start booking early: Airlines only allow a certain number of pets per flight, and popular military routes fill up fast. Book as soon as you know your travel dates, especially during peak PCS season (summer months).
• Know the airline’s pet policy: Each airline has different rules about crate sizes, breed restrictions and temperature limits. Some airlines won’t fly pets when temperatures are too hot or cold. Get familiar with these restrictions before you book.
• Get your pet used to their travel crate: Start crate training weeks before your move. Feed your pet in the crate and let them sleep in it so it becomes a safe space. For flight travel, the crate must be large enough for your pet to stand, turn around and lie down comfortably.
• Prepare for travel day logistics: You’ll need to arrive at the airport extra early for pet check-in. Bring all required documentation and don’t feed your pet for several hours before flying to prevent motion sickness.
• Pack a travel kit: Include your pet’s regular food (enough for several days), any medications, favorite toys and a familiar blanket. The familiar smells can help reduce stress during travel. Put your contact information on the crate, food containers and any bags. Include both your current and destination addresses and phone numbers.
• Keep documents handy: Scan all pet documents and store them in multiple places. You’ll need copies during travel and at your new duty station. Print paper documents and keep them in your PCS binder, so you have them readily available.

Phase IV: Settling into your new home

Once you get to your new duty station, focus on helping your pet adjust. They’ll likely feel stressed after the move, so creating stability is your top priority. Here’s how to help them get comfortable and feel safe:

• Start with housing logistics right away: On-base housing typically requires immediate pet registration and proof of vaccinations. Off-base rentals often require pet deposits ranging from a few hundred to over a thousand dollars. Some properties have weight limits or breed restrictions not mentioned in online listings, so make sure to have backup options.
• Pet proof your new home: Secure electrical cords and windows (make sure screens are in place) and remove dangerous objects to prevent accidents or escapes. This can help keep your pet safe as they get used to their new location. 
• Help your pet adjust by keeping routines consistent: Keep the same feeding times, walks and bedtime schedule they knew before the move. Familiar routines provide comfort when everything else feels new.
• Find a local veterinarian, even if your pet is healthy: Many vets require a "new patient" appointment before they’ll see your pet for emergencies. It’s better to set up care early than scramble during a crisis.

Consider any special circumstances

Not every military pet move fits the standard playbook. Some situations require creative solutions and extra patience. These scenarios need special attention from the start:

• Deployments: If you’re deploying and can’t take your pet, you’ll need long-term care arrangements. Some families arrange for extended stays with relatives while others use professional pet boarding services. Military relief organizations can sometimes help with emergency pet care.
• Multiple pets: Moving with several pets means multiple health certificates, higher transportation fees and more complicated logistics. Some airlines limit the number of pets per flight, so you might need to book different flights or use different transport methods. You’ll also need to plan financially—relocation allowances only cover expenses for one pet per PCS.
• Exotic pets: Birds, reptiles and other non-traditional pets often have more complex import requirements. Some countries prohibit certain species entirely. Research requirements early, as exotic pet regulations can be more restrictive and take longer to navigate than standard dog and cat requirements.

Military resources for PCSing with pets

Beginning in 2024, the US military now offers a pet transportation allowance for Servicemembers during PCS moves. Reimbursement is capped at $550 for moves within the US and $2,000 for overseas moves. The allowance is for one pet per PCS, and expenses must be documented with itemized receipts.

Servicemembers can use Military OneSource to access comprehensive pet relocation guides, country-specific checklists and import details for destinations worldwide. It also maintains a database of approved pet transportation companies and can help you understand regulations for international moves.

Navy Federal makes moving easier for you and your pets

PCSing involves more than just changing duty stations. It’s about moving your entire life, including your four-legged family members. Navy Federal is here to help military members make the transition as smooth as possible for everyone. 

Our loans can help cover unexpected relocation expenses, including pet transportation costs that aren’t covered by military allowances. Our financial counselors can also help you budget for all aspects of your move—and establish a budget after moving. 

Explore our financial education resources for more military transition tips, PCS checklists and budgeting tools designed specifically for Servicemembers and their families—including the four-legged ones.