Shipping Pets

Animals residing in family housing are required to be registered at the McGuire/Dix Veterinary Facility located at 3259 Gettysburg Ave. on Dix, 609-562-6636, within 10 days of arrival. Registration is done on a walk-in basis. This can be accomplished by bringing in your pet's paperwork including the last rabies vaccination certificate. This does not require you to bring the pet.

If you plan to live off base/post, you are required to have a license for your dog from that township or city you reside in. A current rabies certificate is needed for a dog license. License cost varies depending on if the animal is intact or spayed/neutered. Rabies shots are available at the McGuire/Dix Veterinary Clinic for a nominal cost. Check with the local vet, or county licensing and/or animal control office, for current information on pet licensing regulations in New Jersey. There are certain types of pets who require special ownership permits in New Jersey; such as imported or "exotic" animals. For more information please contact the McGuire/Dix Veterinary Clinic at 609-562-6636.

Military member's pets residing in family housing are required to have rabies vaccinations annually. Dogs and cats can be vaccinated against rabies at 12 weeks of age. Lyme vaccine for dogs is encouraged due to high occurrence of disease.

There is no quarantine requirements for cats and dogs. Rabies certificates must be within 1 year and no less than 30 days prior to entry into New Jersey. There are certain types of birds or other imported or exotic animals that may require special ownership permits in the state of New Jersey.

Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst does not have kennels or boarding facilities. However, you may conduct a search of the surrounding areas for pet accomodations. Book advanced reservations for pet boarding as soon as you know your arrival date. Most facilities require proof of current vaccination. Costs can vary and are usually determined by type, breed and size (body weight). Some kennels only allow cats if you are boarding a dog as well. If lodging if fully booked, speak to your leadership regarding a non-availability letter and a list of approved off-base lodging locations that allow pets to stay in their facilities.

- Contact your Military & Family Readiness Center to learn about a PCS Pet Transportation Assistance grant from Air Force Aid Society before you travel to offset the cost of moving your pet.