Shipping Pets

To obtain a dog license in any of the Hampton Roads cities, you must provide a current rabies certificate. If you wish to receive the reduced rate for a dog license, you will also need documentation showing that your animal has been spayed or neutered.

Dog licenses are purchased annually and are valid for one year, from January 1 through December 31. Fees vary by cities.

There is a maximum of two pets (dogs or cats) permitted in government housing. Units without rear fenced yards will not be allowed pets without prior permission from the Housing Authority. Barnyard or exotic pets (reptiles, ducks, rabbits, chickens, ferrets, etc.) are not allowed.

Airlines have different rules for transporting animals. If you plan to travel on a civilian air carrier, be sure to check the airline's requirements well in advance.

For the health and safety of your animals during extreme temperatures, please follow these guidelines. Most warm-blooded animals, including birds, are best transported when temperatures are between 45 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit. Civilian airlines may refuse to transport your animals if the actual or forecasted temperature at any stop along your route exceeds 85 degrees Fahrenheit.

AMC charter flights now transport pets on most of their flights as part of the standard service to DOD passengers. This service is provided to and from Germany, Italy, Spain, Greece, Turkey, Panama, Newfoundland, the Azores, Guantanamo Bay, Japan and Guam. Pet transport is limited to passengers with permanent change of station orders. Pets are defined as dogs and cats with a maximum of two pets per family.

There are limited pet spaces on all flights and reservations are handled on a first-come, first-served basis through the local transportation office. The passenger must provide an International Air Transportation Association approved container for pet shipment, which is available at many exchanges or retail stores. The passenger is also responsible for complying with all required documentation, immunizations and border clearance requirements and should be prepared to pay any associated costs. Pets accompanying service or family members on the flight must be in a hard-sided cage that conforms to specified measurement. Fees associated with shipping pets are based on the weight of the animals and cage combined. Costs are subject to frequent change. Contact your carrier to find exact pricing.

For information on booking flights with your pets, contact the Navy Personnel Transport Office. For general information on traveling with pets, contact the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals or your nearest military veterinary clinic. Service members can now download the MilPetEd APP for more information.

Looking for a hotel that will allow your pets? Check with the Hampton Roads Chamber of Commerce or Pets Welcome website for options. If you're moving with pets, arranging before you arrive can help reduce stress for both you and your animals. Keep in mind that military installations in the Hampton Roads area do not have boarding facilities.

Boarding costs are generally based on the weight of your pet:

• 50 pounds or less - approximately $17 per night
• Over 50 pounds - approximately $18 to $40 per night

Costs may vary between facilities, so it's best to call ahead.

Below is a list of nearby kennels:

• Pet Lodge at Yorktown - 757-223-1277
• Femmes & Fidos - 757-873-3436
• Grafton Animal Hospital - 757-898-8433
• Mercury Animal Hospital Inc. - 757-826-4951

The Veterinary Treatment Facility is professionally staffed and operated by the Army Veterinary Corps. Services are available to active-duty personnel, retired active-duty personnel, their family members and reservists serving on active duty. Except for over-the-counter purchases, all services are provided by appointment only. Service members can now download the MilPetEd APP for information and instructions.

Small Animals Services Offered:

• Immunizations
• Parasite control
• Health certificates
• Treatment of zoonotic diseases

Important Safety Information:

• Due to the small waiting area and the presence of multiple animal types, children 12 years of age and under are not permitted in the facility during vaccination and sick call clinics to reduce the risk of injury.
• Dogs must be on a leash at all times. Cats and other small animals must be in a cage or carrier while in the facility.

Additional Notes:

• Remember to pick up your pet's records to take to your next duty station.
• If you no longer own the pet, notify the VTF so your pet's records can be properly disposed of.

Local area VTFs:

• Naval Station Norfolk - 757-953-0350
• Joint Base Langley-Eustis - 757-878-5824
• Langley Air Force Base - 757-764-5678