How to PCS with Pets

When you are preparing for a move with the military, having a pet could add another level of stress, especially if you are moving overseas. By preparing in advance, you can ease some of the stress involved with relocating both your family and your pets. 

Pet Moving Tips:

·      Before moving, take your pet to the vet. Ensure that your pet is healthy and up to date on shots and immunizations.

·      Get an identification tag for your pet. The tag should display your pet’s name, your cellphone number, and even emergency contact number.

·      Ensure that you have photos of your pet in case he/she gets lost during the move. 

·      Consider having your vet insert an identification microchip under the skin. If lost, a vet can scan the microchip and get your contact information. 

Traveling in Your Car:

·      Prior to the move, spend time with your pet in the vehicle. Introducing it to your car beforehand can show your pet that traveling can be fun.

·      Offer your pet a reward whenever it gets into your vehicle. 

·      Take your dog on a short drive to destinations such as the park so he or she can associate car travel with a fun destination. 

·      If you chose to travel with your pet’s crate inside the vehicle, put the crate inside your home or your backyard. Leave the door open and put a treat inside the crate. This shows your pet that the crate is safe and rewarding. 

·      Teach your dog commands such as “go potty” or “go outside” so they can relive themselves whenever you stop during your trip. 

    Moving State to State:

·      Check to see if your new duty station has a limited number of pets allowed on the installation. 

·      Have a friend or family member watch your pet on packing day so you can focus on your household goods. 

·      Seek out pet-friendly hotels along your trip. 

·      Don’t forget your pet’s health certificate and proof of current vaccines. 

·      Put your pet’s food and water bowls, leash, toys, bedding, potty bags and medicine in one bag. This allows you to be organized and have everything readily available for your pet. 

·      When stopping at rest areas, give your pet some fresh water and a chance to run around and use the restroom. Give your cat access to a litter box. 

Moving Overseas:

·      Prepare in advance for your trip overseas. This can save you and your bet a lot of hassle and/or heartache. Different countries have different rules and quarantine requirements for cats, dogs, and other types of pets. 

·      Contact a resource in the country in which you were assigned to learn about the rules for bringing in pets. 

·      Many overseas assignments require that pets have a microchip with a number that matches their health certificate. Check to see if your country requires a chip.

·      Check the travel requirements for pet crate before buying a crate. 

·      Write your name, the pet’s name, and your destination address on the crate. If your pet is unfriendly, put a warning on the outside of the crate. 

·      Ask the airline if you need to reserve a space on the flight for your pet. 

Knowing what to expect before you move can ease the stress of relocating your pet. You will want to be prepared to deal with various transportation rules and health regulations prior to your move.