What’s moving to paradise if you don’t get to bring your best friend with you!? If you’re anything like me, my pets are my family. If I’m going somewhere, they’re going to be sitting right next to me. Unlike moving to a new home on the mainland, bringing your pets to Hawaii can be a bit more complicated. Before making the move, make sure you brush up on all the policies regarding the transport of animals to the Islands.
It’s a Big Deal
The Islands of Hawaii have a very unique ecosystem that’s much different from the mainland, or really any other place on Earth. Because of that, it’s important not to let in any animals that could potentially harm the delicate environment. The first step of transporting your furry (or not) buddies to your new tropical home is checking the list of conditionally approved and prohibited animals allowed in Hawaii. In general:
· All dog breeds are permitted if they’re not mixed with wild animals like wolves or coyotes.
· All cat breeds are permitted if they’re not mixed with wild animals like lynx, puma or bobcat.
· Fish are permitted subject to some restrictions.
· Birds are permitted subject to restrictions.
· Snakes are not allowed in Hawaii.
The Checklist
Hawaii is also the only state in the U.S. that’s completely rabies free! To keep it that way, all pets have to go through an extensive process that involves vaccination, testing and a quarantine waiting period. Follow this checklist to make sure you complete every step of the process properly.
1. Get your pet vaccinated against rabies (they should be already).
2. Get your pets tested for rabies.
3. After a negative rabies test, your pet must go through a waiting period before coming to Hawaii.
a. Current mandatory waiting time is 30 days, but it can change depending on demand.
4. Documents must be filled out and sent to the Animal Quarantine Station no less than 10 days before arrival, along with associated fees.
a. $185 per pet. $244 if documents aren’t submitted in time.
5. Your pet will be checked out by the Animal Quarantine Station in Hawaii upon arrival and released into your care after checkout is complete.
If you get confused about any steps of the process, you can call Alii Veterinary Hospital at 808.329.8999 or Keauhou Veterinary Hospital at 808.322.2988 for questions regarding transport of pets to the Kailua-Kona area.
It’s also important to note that the Animal Quarantine Area of the airport sometimes closes at 5pm. If your flight arrives after closing time, your pets might be kept overnight. Don’t leave your fur-babies all alone; schedule your flight to land before mid-afternoon to ensure that everything can be processed in a timely manner. You and your little buddies will be enjoying the warm sunny beaches in no time!
Me and my buddy Gus enjoying a Hawaiian sunset.
Time to Make the Move
If you’re ready to make the jump to Hawaii but feel like your pets are holding you back, don’t worry! It’s not that bad. My pets and I made the journey all the way from the East Coast, and now my little puppers are living the Island life. Let’s make your dreams a reality and find a home for you and your furry friends in Hawaii. Give me a call at 808.209.6244, or email me at RandyRipley808@gmail.com to start looking today!
Aloha, and welcome to Hawaii.