Ultimate Guide to Military Pet Shipping for PCS and International Relocation

A practical, step-by-step playbook for service families relocating with dogs and cats. Learn timelines, airline rules, kennel sizing, paperwork, and planning tips to keep your PCS move on track.

Quick Takeaways

• Start early: Some destinations require weeks to months of prep.
• Measure correctly: Choose an IATA-compliant travel kennel sized to your pet.
• Match your PCS window: Plan flights and vet visits backward from report date.
• Expect variables: Embargoes, breed restrictions, and seasonal heat rules can change routing.

1) Timeline & Planning (Work Backward from Report Date)

Every PCS is different, so build your plan around your report date and port call:

• Buffer weeks for vet appointments, certificates, and any import permits.
• If you’re OCONUS, confirm quarantine or reservation requirements early.
• Coordinate pet flights with your family itinerary and household goods pickup.

Pro tip: Keep a single calendar for pet tasks (shots, microchip, health certificate, crate arrival) and human tasks (TMO, housing, school). Seeing both helps avoid date conflicts.

2) Airline & Routing (Comfort, Compliance, and Seasonality)

Airlines vary in pet policies, route availability, and seasonal restrictions:

• Minimize connections and layovers, especially in hot or cold climates.
• Check breed policies and age minimums. Some carriers restrict snub-nosed breeds.
• Watch for heat embargoes and temperature limits during summer months.

If your ideal route isn’t available due to weather or policy, consider shifting dates, changing departure airports, or using alternate hubs that are pet-friendlier.

3) IATA-Compliant Kennels (Measure Before You Buy)

Your pet must be able to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably. To size properly:

1. Measure nose-to-base-of-tail (length) and floor-to-top-of-head or ears (height).
2. Add recommended clearances to select the correct IATA-approved crate size.
3. Choose secure, ventilated models with metal hardware where required.

Introduce the crate early. Short, positive sessions help your pet relax on travel day.

See our guide: Travel Kennels

4) Vet Prep & Documents (Know Your Destination’s Rules)

Documentation depends on where you’re headed. Common items include:

• ISO microchip (implanted before vaccinations where required)
• Core vaccinations up to date (e.g., rabies), and sometimes titers
• Health certificate (USDA-endorsed for certain destinations)
• Import permits or quarantine reservations (country-specific)

Some countries require a waiting period after vaccination or blood tests. Start as soon as you receive orders to protect your timeline.

5) Day-of-Travel Logistics (Calm, Organized, On Time)

• Label the crate with your contact info and destination details.
• Pack a small kit: copies of documents, extra zip ties, pee pads, and a familiar blanket.
• Follow airline check-in guidance. Plan for earlier arrival when traveling with pets.

If meeting on base, confirm access or a designated handoff point that aligns with local security protocols.

6) Costs & Budgeting (What Affects Price)

Several factors influence total cost:

• Route, airline, and season
• Kennel size and weight
• Destination documentation and customs handling

Request a quote for accurate pricing based on your dates, pet size, and destination requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions (Military PCS)

Can you work around my report date and port call?

Yes—plan backward from those dates. We align vet visits and flight bookings to your PCS window.

What size kennel do I need?

Measure carefully and choose an IATA-compliant size so your pet can stand, turn, and lie down. When in doubt, size up for comfort. See: Travel Kennels

Which documents are required for overseas bases?

Requirements vary. Typically: ISO microchip, vaccinations, an endorsed health certificate, and sometimes import permits or quarantine reservations.

Do you offer pickup and delivery on base?

We coordinate base access when possible and set meeting points that respect local security policies.

Need Help with Your PCS?

• Request a Military Quote
• Talk to a Coordinator
• Learn more: Military Pet Shipping

Pets4Jets coordinates airline-compliant kennels, documents, routing, and updates—so you can focus on your move.