Shipping Pets

Military housing occupants are authorized two pets (canine and/or feline). All pets must be registered and licensed with the base veterinarian within 72 hours of moving into base housing. Pet owners should bring pet/vaccination information, as well as address and telephone numbers, to the clinic for inclusion in their system. In addition to cats and dogs, residents may board aquarium fish and birds, provided all pets are properly caged when not being handled. Cages must be cleaned regularly and provide a healthy environment for the pets. Residents may not board exotic animals such as, but not limited to, reptiles, rodents (hamsters, guinea pigs, ferrets, hedgehogs, skunks, and rats), raccoons, squirrels, pot-bellied pigs, monkeys, arachnids, or any farm animal. Non-compliance may result in loss of housing privileges. Please contact the Base Housing office for questions regarding specific pet restrictions 605-385-2568/2570.

• Residents may not board dogs of any breed (including mixed breed) that are deemed aggressive or potentially aggressive.
• Off-base landlords may charge a monthly fee for pets.
• There are currently very few quarters that are pet friendly and available for reservations.
• Kenneling costs vary depending on the type of pet, the weight of the pet and any of the pet's special needs. All kennels require proof of current shots.
• Unusual/exotic pets are not authorized in military family housing.
• No pet quarantine is required.

Travel is always hard on a pet whether it is accustomed to the road or not. Remember animals experience the same excitement and anxiety in a new environment as you. Bring along a few of their favorite items for the trip. If your pet gets sick while traveling, the American Animal Hospital Association provides a toll-free number; 800-252-2242. Information on veterinarians in the area may be available. 

Air Travel

Schedule your pet's flight yourself, whether it's the same flight you will be on or a cargo flight. Many air carriers have Reserved Air Freight shipments, so you can call ahead. RAF arrangements should be made in advance. Never initiate shipment over weekends or holidays when freight offices are likely closed. A health certificate (issued through Veterinary Services) is a must and is good for 10 days from the date of issuance; get the certificate as close to departure as possible. If your pet is subject to motion sickness, it is wise to get some tranquilizers from the veterinarian.

Purchasing a crate is preferable to renting one (for the sake of your pet's health). Purchase crates that meet federal compliance. Attach water pans to prevent spills. On the top outside of the crate, list your name, address and phone number so the Transport Authorities can contact you in case of emergency (canceled flights, etc.). Also, secure a 3x5 card to the top of the crate indicating name, address and phone number of the person to receive the pet at its final destination. Federal regulations require that you attach an envelope to the crate containing the pet's health certificate. It is wise to carry or mail duplicate copies of required information (just in case the envelope is lost or damaged).

If the flight is 12-24 hours, depending on the age of the pet, you must provide food to accompany the crate. A suggestion is to attach a heavy cloth or plastic bag filled with dry (biscuits) or "soft moist" food.

A word to the wise — Don't lock the door of the crate! In case of emergency, you want someone to be able to assist your pet without tearing the door off its hinges and destroying the crate.

If you are traveling with your pet or won't be in the airport when it arrives, arrange to have someone pick up your pet and let you know the pet has arrived safely.

Car Travel

For your convenience, pack a travel kit for your pet. Include the following items: supply of pet's regular food; can opener; food and water bowls; blanket; favorite toy; treats; comb and/or brush; mop up towel or paper towels; flea or tick repellent if you will be in rural areas; plastic bags to clean up after your pet at motel or campground; and sedative prescribed by your veterinarian. For cats pack: kitty litter pan, kitty litter, and scooper.

Travel by Train or Bus

All pets must be confined to a well-ventilated, secure crate that can be opened for watering by crew members; watering is all they'll do. If you want to feed your pet, you'll have to do it yourself. At stopovers, take your pet out for a little exercise.

Remember to ask the commercial carrier exactly what conditions and requirements for shipment must be met to satisfy both carrier and federal regulations.