Most pets importable stateside

People moving stateside this summer may take most types of pets with them if they plan ahead. However, endangered species laws prevent people from taking some turtles, birds and reptiles to the United States.

“Dogs must be free of disease and be vaccinated against rabies at least 30 days before they reach the USA,” said Mike Dean, director of the U.S. European Command’s Customs and Border Clearance Agency. “Puppies younger than 3 months and dogs in rabies-free areas such as the United Kingdom are exempted, however.”

Unvaccinated dogs will be inoculated on arrival and confined for 30 days at the owner’s expense. Cats must show no signs of disease, and a rabies vaccination is required in most U.S. states.

People wanting to ship pet birds should consult the U.S. Department of Agriculture website for the latest information, as procedures can change on short notice. Visit www.aphis.usda.gov/wps/portal/aphis/ourfocus/importexport.

Arrangements to ship pet birds to the U.S. must be made 120 days in advance of the PCS.

Hawaii is the only place in the U.S. that is permanently free of rabies. Personnel moving to the Aloha State should check with the Hawaii Department of Agriculture Web page to find out about their special quarantine requirements for pets. Visit hdoa.hawaii.gov/ai/aqs/animal-quarantine-information-page.

For more information on shipping pets and endangered species legislation from the “Pets, Wildlife” pamphlet, visit a military customs office or consult the CBCA website at www.eur.army.mil/opm/customs/pets.htm.