Shipping Pets

Pet ownership is a privilege. In order to live in government housing, all pets must be registered with both Island Palm Community and the installation veterinary clinic. Must have proof of current rabies immunization by a certified veterinarian and proof of immunizations is required to be submitted to Island Palm Communities each year. A complete list of vaccinations, licensing and registration information is available in the Island Palm Communities website under Resident Resources. Non-compliance with the resident guide and required provisions could result in the loss of pet privileges.

The following are answers to a few of the most frequently asked questions:

• There is not a pet deposit, however, a $98 pet de-flea fee when vacating is charged to all residents with registered pets.
• Limit of two pets per household
• Pit bulls, dogs with any pit bull breeding combination, Rottweilers, Doberman pinschers, chows, wolf hybrids and dogs that demonstrate a propensity for dominant or aggressive behavior are prohibited.
• Pet owners must have proof of vaccinations.
• Information regarding Hawaii Quarantine requirements can be found at http://hdoa.hawaii.gov/

Airlines vary with regard to size and weight limitations as well as any special procedures. Be sure to let Transportation know you will traveling with pets when they book your plane tickets. It is your responsibility, however, to make arrangements for your pets. Contact the airline you will be traveling with to get a complete list of their pet travel policies and restrictions.

The following are some typical airline policies, but again, you must verify guidelines with your airline:

• All pets must have a health certificate dated within 10 days of travel
• Temperatures in cargo must be between 20 and 85 degrees
• Snub-nose dogs and cats typically are not allow to travel if the temperatures are above 75 degrees.

Costs

Cost vary by airline from as much as $1,000 for a large dog breed traveling from the East Coast to Oahu. Average costs for a medium- or smaller-sized dog and cats range between $150-$300. You are responsible for payment of these fees.

As of 1 Jan 2024, a Soldier may be authorized allowances associated with the costs of moving with one household pet (cat or dog). Pet Transportation Allowance > Defense Travel Management Office > FAQs | Defense Travel Management Office (dod.mil)

Importation of dogs, cats and other carnivores into Hawaii is governed by Chapter 4-29 of the State of Hawaii, Department of Agriculture Administrative Rules. This law says that dogs and cats meeting specific pre- and post-arrival requirements may qualify for 30 days, five days or even direct release at the airport depending upon which requirements are met prior to and after arrival in Hawaii.

You must contact the Hawaii Department of Agriculture with any questions prior to your preparations as no exemptions or discretionary modifications are permitted by Hawaii State Law. For more information, please visit http://hdoa.hawaii.gov/ai/aqs/aqs-info/

The U.S. Army Garrison Hawaii Morale, Welfare and Recreation Pet Kennel is available for your cats and dogs. This 215 kennel facility will quickly become your cat or dogs favorite home away from home. With exceptional customer service and all the love and care your pet will need you can be confident in leaving your pet at the MWR Kennel.

The kennel is located next to the Halawa State Quarantine site in Halawa Valley. Look for the sign "MWR Pet Kennel." The phone number is 808-368-3456. Limited spaces are available for Active Duty/DOD/Retired/Reservists.

Detailed kennel information can be found at https://hawaii.armymwr.com/programs/family-and-mwr-pet-kennels

Office & Pet Pick-up/Drop-off Hours

• Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
• Closed Wednesday, Sunday and Federal Holidays

There are two Army veterinary clinics that can be used by active duty and reservists (on active orders). One of the clinics is located on Schofield Barracks and the other is located on Fort Shafter. They provide routine checkups, vaccinations, microchip, and non-trauma care. Most emergency pet care is provided by local veterinary clinics. 

If you have questions, please contact the clinics: Schofield Barracks Veterinary Clinic, 936 Duck Road at 808-655-5893 or 808-655-5889; DSN 315-455-5889/315-455-5893. Fort Shafter Veterinary Clinic, 435 Pierce Road at 808-438-5231; DSN 315-438-5231.