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For many military families, pets are part of the family, and they PCS too. Moving a dog or cat across the country (or overseas) takes planning, especially when it comes to finding pet-friendly housing at your new duty station.
Know the Base Housing Pet Policy
Most privatized on-base housing communities welcome pets, but almost all have rules. Common policies include:
- A limit on the number of pets per household, often two
- Restrictions on certain dog breeds and on exotic animals
- Required vaccinations and pet registration with the installation veterinary clinic
- Microchipping requirements on many installations
- Leash and waste-cleanup rules in common areas
Policies differ by service, installation, and housing company, so contact the housing office at your gaining base before you move. If your pet is not allowed on base, you will need to look for off-base military housing rentals that accept pets.
Prepare Your Pet’s Paperwork
- Up-to-date vaccination records, including rabies
- A health certificate from a veterinarian, if required by your airline or destination
- Microchip number and registration details
- Recent photos of your pet in case they get lost
For overseas moves, requirements can take months. Start early and check the destination country’s rules, the USDA APHIS pet travel guidance, and your installation veterinary treatment facility.
Gear That Makes Pet Travel Easier
- An airline-compliant pet carrier or a hard-sided travel crate sized so your pet can stand and turn around
- A collapsible travel water bowl for road trips
- A dog car seat cover to protect your vehicle
- A GPS pet tracker in case your pet slips away in an unfamiliar place
- An ID tag with your cell phone number
Get your pet used to the crate weeks before the move by feeding meals in it and taking short drives.
On Moving Day
Packing and loading days are stressful for animals: strangers, noise, and open doors. Board your pet, leave them with a friend, or keep them in a closed room with a sign on the door. Pack a bag with food, medication, leash, waste bags, and a favorite toy or blanket that rides with you.
Settling In at Your New Home
- Pet-proof the house before letting your pet explore. Check fences and gates for gaps.
- Register your pet with the installation veterinary clinic if required.
- Update your pet’s microchip with your new address and phone number.
- Keep routines consistent: same feeding times and walks help your pet adjust faster.
Protect Your Deposit
Pet damage is one of the most common move-out charges. Use washable furniture covers, keep nails trimmed, and clean accidents quickly with an enzyme pet stain cleaner. See our inspection tips for more ways to protect your deposit.
Plan Ahead
With a little preparation, your pets can PCS as smoothly as the rest of the family. Use our PCS moving checklist to keep the whole move on track, and browse military housing rentals near your new duty station.
