Shipping Pets

Moving with Pets: Licensing, Vaccination, and Registration Guide

Relocating with pets requires careful preparation to ensure a smooth transition for both your family and your animals. Whether you are moving into on-base family housing or living in the surrounding local community, review the registration, licensing and vaccination requirements outlined below.

1. On-Base Housing Pet Registration

All domestic animals residing in military family housing must be officially registered with the veterinary treatment facility within seven days of arrival.

• Registration Method: Walk-in basis (no appointment required).
• Physical Presence: You do not need to bring your pet to the clinic for registration.
• Required Documentation:
  • Proof of ownership/adoption records
  • Most recent rabies vaccination certificate showing current validity
  • Complete veterinary medical and immunization history

2. Off-Base Living & Community Licensing

If you reside in off-base civilian housing, your pet falls under local New Jersey municipal and county ordinances:

• Dog Licensing: All dogs living off-base must be licensed through the specific township, borough, or municipality where you reside.
• Requirements: A valid rabies vaccination certificate is required to obtain a municipal dog license.
• Fee Structure: Licensing fees vary by municipality; rates are generally discounted for spayed or neutered animals compared to intact animals.
• Exotic and Imported Animals: New Jersey state law mandates specialized permits for exotic, non-traditional or imported pets. Contact the veterinary clinic or local animal control office before bringing these animals into the state.
• Local Contacts: Verify specific regulations by contacting your township municipal clerk or local county animal control office.

3. Vaccination and Preventive Care Standards

Maintaining up-to-date immunizations protects community health and fulfills military housing lease agreements.

• Mandatory Rabies Vaccination
  • Annual Mandate: Military members' pets residing in family housing must receive rabies vaccinations annually.
  • Eligibility Age: Puppies and kittens may receive their initial rabies vaccine starting at 12 weeks of age.
  • Affordable Access: Routine rabies vaccinations are available at the installation veterinary clinic for a nominal fee.
• Recommended Preventive Health
  • Lyme Disease Prevention: Because New Jersey has a high prevalence of tick-borne illnesses, Lyme disease vaccination and year-round tick preventatives are strongly encouraged for all dogs.
  • Parasite Prevention: Speak with a veterinarian regarding heartworm, flea and intestinal parasite control protocols suited to the local climate.

4. Veterinary Treatment Facility Details

• Facility Name: McGuire/Dix Veterinary Facility
• Location: 3259 Gettysburg Ave., Dix
• Telephone: 609-562-6636
• Services Offered: Registration, core vaccinations (rabies, Lyme), routine wellness, and health certificates
• Registration Hours: Walk-in service available during regular clinic operating hours