You have multiple options for relocating your pet to Hawaii. You can fly with your pet by following the quarantine regulations as detailed on the Animal Import System (AIS) web-based portal at DAB.Hawaii.gov. Or contact veteran-owned Island Pet Movers (IslandPetMovers.com) to handle transportation and all paperwork involved for same-day release of your pet to you at the airport. Relocating pets to and from Hawaii, and the U.S. Mainland and Neighbor Islands, the company extends a military discount upon request when booking. ANIMAL QUARANTINE If transporting your pet with you, the AIS portal allows pet owners to complete and track import applications online, and includes a FAQ for Hawaii’s Five-Days-Or-Less Program. Upon landing, dogs and cats arriving in Honolulu will be taken from the aircraft by airline personnel and delivered to the Airport Animal Quarantine Holding Facility (AAQHF). Here, pets are removed from their carriers, placed into indoor kennels, and provided with fresh water. Food may be provided at owner’s request. Pets are inspected, including a check for ticks and other parasites. If all paperwork was received on time and is in order and there is no discovery of ticks, parasites or signs of disease, your pet should be eligible for Direct Airport Release. Note that the typical one- to two-hour process has frequently seen delays during the past few years. If eligible for Direct Airport Release, pet(s) can be picked up by owners from AAQHF immediately after inspection is complete. Ensure that you have transportation for your pet–especially large dogs–as your pet must be secured in its container until you leave the airport property. PET BOARDING Since there is typically a waiting list for onbase housing, it could take days or weeks to find an off-base rental allowing pets. Also, few hotels allow pets. So, you may have to kennel yours until your home is ready or even longer if you decide to travel. For resources, click on the Army Services tab and then the Family & MWR Pet Kennels link under Army Services at Hawaii. ArmyMWR.com. Recently relocating its facility from Aiea to Wahiawa across from Wheeler Army Airfield, Paradise Pet Care Center (808-787-1567) offers 52 dog kennels, 10 cat kennels, grassy lawns and large exercise/play areas. If the facility is full or access is inconvenient for you, Google search “Oahu Pet Boarding” for more options. PET FRIENDLY RESTAURANTS Want to dine out with your canine that isn’t certified as a service animal? Websites such as BringFido lists dog-friendly Honolulu restaurants or those known to offer an outdoor area where four-legged friends are allowed. Be aware that Hawaii law imposes fines for passing off a pet dog as a service animal. PET FRIENDLY ACCOMMODATIONS Within a half-mile of HNL on Nimitz Highway, Airport Honolulu Hotel and Best Western The Plaza Hotel provide pet-friendly guest rooms. These TLA-approved hotels offer free parking, Internet access, and shutSummer-Fall 2026 • Hawaii Military Guide 55
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