Fort Buchanan  Moving

There are no license requirements for house pets. However, the Fort Buchanan Veterinary Detachment requires licensing if living on post. Vaccinations must be up-to-date (within six months of arrival). For questions about moving with your pet(s), contact the Fort Buchanan Veterinary Treatment Facility at 787-707-2038/2881.

All animals coming into Puerto Rico must have a health certificate, completed by a veterinarian, which certifies that the animal is free from infectious and contagious diseases. An active microchip that was implanted on the day of or prior to rabies vaccination. A current rabies vaccination and certificate is required. Both the rabies certificate and the health certificate must be signed in blue ink by your veterinarian.

The Puerto Rican Commonwealth has established animal importation rules that are similar to those of the U.S. In general, these rules are designed to prevent the accidental introduction of animal diseases that have been eradicated from CONUS. Pets moving to Puerto Rico must comply with regulations from both the USDA as well as those of the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico. You can further information on the USDA APHIS website: https://www.aphis.usda.gov/aphis/ourfocus/animalhealth/animal-and-animal-product-import-information/sa_entry_requirements/sa_state_require/ct_puerto_rico_entry_req<

If your pet is traveling from outside of the United States, a PRDA import permit is required, proof that the animal did not originate from a rabies quarantined area, a health certificate, and an up to date rabies vaccination and certificate are required. Additional information can be found on the USDA APHIS website.

In order to prevent the spread of avian diseases to birds in Puerto Rico, exotic bird regulations are more strict that that of dogs and cats. All birds brought to Puerto Rico must have an import permit issued by the PRDA SAHO, an official health certificate stating that the bird is free of symptoms associated with psittacosis, Avian Influenza, Newcastle disease, and did not originate from an area under quarantine from these diseases, and requires testing (Avian influenza, Chlamyida psittaci and Newcastle disease).

Birds that were not originally obtained in the U.S. are required to undergo a 30 day quarantine at a U.S. Department of Agriculture animal import facility. The nearest facility to Puerto Rico is located in Miami, Florida. Pet birds accompanied by proof of U.S. origination (includes health certificate and leg band) can enter Puerto Rico without quarantine.

Other animals such as reptiles, rabbits, and small rodents will need a current health certificate and import permits to enter Puerto Rico from outside of the United States.

Any animal traveling from outside of the United States that enters Puerto Rico that is found to be diseased will be returned to the point of origin or euthanized.

Early planning is very important to ensure a space for your pets at a local kennel. Reservations should be made at least one month in advance. Deposits will be required to hold reservation. All kennels listed below meet standards. The U.S. Army Veterinary Services cannot take responsibility for animals while boarded.

• Amazing Pet Village       
• Wildane Kennels
• Caribe Kennel Club
• De Varona, Inc.
• PetSmart PetsHotel and Doggie Day Camp

The Fort Buchanan Guest House has two deluxe pet-friendly rooms with $75 deposit (not refundable) and $5 daily charge per pet.

A recent law passed in Puerto Rico in 2018 that now allows the possession of pit bulls, American Staffordshire terriers and all crosses. So far there is no ordinance against them on post. According to the Puerto Rico Department of Natural Resources all exotic pets such as snakes, birds, reptiles, etc., must have pre-approval before coming into the island. Contact the Relocation office 787-707-3682 for further details or call the Information and Referral office at 787-707-3804.

You may pick up your pets at the traveling airline cargo area.