Shipping Pets

There are limited Temporary Lodging Facility (TLF) units on Peterson SFB that allow for pets. When making lodging arrangements, ask for availability.

There are no kennels available on base. However, there are over 20 kennels in Colorado Springs. Pets will need to meet vaccination requirements of the boarding facility. Please make reservations before arrival.

If owners choose to stay in an off-base establishment to avoid kenneling their pets, they will not receive TLF reimbursement unless they have obtained a non-availability statement from TLF.

Renting and Pets

Pet policies for those who plan to rent: Many apartment communities do not allow pets. Those communities that allow pets may have restrictions as to the size, weight and breed of the pet and may charge pet rent in addition to a pet deposit. The pet deposit may be non-refundable. Rental homes that accept pets may have size and quantity restrictions, and will probably charge an additional pet deposit.

Licensing and Registration

The cost of a pet license in the Colorado Springs jurisdiction is approximately $35.00 per year for unaltered dogs and $20.00 if the dog has been spayed or neutered. If you are assigned quarters on-base, please note that the Humane Society of the Pikes Peak Region will not register your pet.  Schriever Space Force Base does not fall under their jurisdiction.

Quarantines

There are no local pet quarantines.

Pet Travel

Plan for your pet's trip in the same way you plan your own, well in advance. A clean bill of health is an important first step in assuring your pet's ability to adjust safely to unfamiliar surroundings. In addition, most states and countries require recent health certificates and disease inoculation documentation before you will be allowed to cross borders, making a trip to the veterinarian mandatory.

Make sure your pet has a special identification tag with your pet's name, your name, and a destination address or that of a friend or relative. Or you may want to have a microchip implanted in your pet. For some overseas locations this may be required before your pet will be allowed in that country. If your pet already has a microchip be sure to update your contact information every time you relocate. Traveling by car is sometimes the most humane way to go since you can plan regular stops for exercise and feeding. Take along your pet's food and water bowls, blanket or bedding, and favorite toy. And don't forget their leash and collar!

If your pet travels with you, keep your pet on a leash when outside your car or hotel. If you plan to stay in a hotel or motel, call in advance to check if pets are allowed and to make reservations. If you plan to board your pet at your destination point, reservations are also necessary, especially during heavy travel periods such as holidays and summers. Never leave your pet alone in a parked car. In summer, it takes only minutes for the heat to climb to more than 120 degrees, even in the shade. In winter, closed cars become refrigerators, and the cold can be as dangerous as summer heat.

Traveling by air is another option for transporting animals. The pet kennel/carrier in which your pet will be spending most of its trip is of the utmost importance. Your pet must have room to turn freely while in a standing position and be able to use normal movements in order to stand erect or lie down in a natural position. A container for water should be secured to the inside of the carrier positioned so that it can be filled without opening the cage. A drip bottle is recommended. Also, include a familiar blanket or favorite toy in the carrier. Be aware, if you are PCSing during summer/winter months that airlines will not fly pets when temperatures rise above or fall below a certain level. Check with your airline for specifics.

According to federal regulations, an airline cannot accept an animal from its owner unless the animal is 1) at least 8 weeks old; 2) certified as healthy within 10 days prior to departure; 3) secured in a carrier which meets the required standards; and 4) adequately identified. Pet owners often prefer to have their pet in the cabin section with them. This is possible, but reservations must be made as early as possible. Generally, only one animal per flight is allowed in the cabin, and permission is granted on a first come, first served basis. Another requirement is that the pet carrier must fit under the seat, so this restricts the carry-on option to very small animals.

If your pet travels in the cargo section, extra care must be taken prior to boarding and after landing which will minimize the difficulties your pet may face while out of your stewardship. Purchasing the proper carrier, arranging for non-stop, direct flights and making sure that someone is in the baggage area when your pet arrives are safeguards that you can take to ensure your pet's safe transportation.

For smaller pets, such as birds, hamsters, gerbils, and tropical fish, consider sending them by air express. Airline freight departments or pet stores can supply shipping containers. Tropical fish should be packed by a local pet shop specializing in tropical fish.