PCS with Pets

Written By Jessica Cook
 

Military life comes with incredible rewards, but frequent moves (PCS - Permanent Change of Station) can be stressful, especially for our four-legged companions. The financial and emotional burdens of PCSing with pets can feel overwhelming, sometimes leading to the heartbreaking decision of rehoming a beloved pet.

But wait! Before you say goodbye to your furry friend, there's hope! This resource library is your one-stop shop for navigating the challenges of PCSing with pets. We'll guide you through everything you need to know, from budgeting for travel to finding pet-friendly housing, all while keeping your family (including the fur babies!) happy and healthy.

Let's make your next PCS a smooth transition for everyone, with wags and happy meows included!

 

Here's the wag (or meow!) 

The cost of pet travel depends heavily on your new duty station. Are you staying stateside or heading overseas? Commercial airlines, pet taxis, military rotator, and even crate training for cargo travel all have varying price points.


TIPS TO STRETCH YOUR PET TRAVEL BUDGET:

  • Research, research, research! Get quotes from different airlines, pet shippers, and pet taxis. Don't forget to factor in crate purchase, vet checkups, and health certificates (requirements vary by location). If you’re going oversees – AMC (military rotator airplane) is the most affordable option for pet travel– but make sure to book your pets spot ASAP (they have limited spots and book up quickly). 

  • Military Per Diem Bonus! As of January 2024, there's fantastic news! The DoD now reimburses pet travel expenses for PCS moves. Up to $550 is available for CONUS (Continental United States) moves and a whopping $2,000 for OCONUS (Outside Continental US) moves.  Remember, this covers one pet. Additional furry friends will require you to factor in their travel costs as well.

  • Consider limitations on pets in military housing. Most military housing allows a maximum of two pets. If you have more furry friends, explore boarding options near your new base or consider creative solutions with friends or family back home (temporarily).

  • Join the pack! Military families are a resourceful bunch. Facebook groups like  PCS with Pets(https://www.facebook.com/groups/pcswithpets/) and Military PCS with Pets(https://www.facebook.com/groups/pcswithpets/) are gold mines for information, shared experiences, and sometimes even recommendations for pet travel discounts!

 

What is AMC?

AMC Travel refers to the Air Mobility Command Travel program, a service specifically for military members traveling on official business (PCS - Permanent Change of Station) or using Space-Available flights. 

AMC offers pet transport on Patriot Express flights, allowing your precious pups and cuddly cats to travel alongside you. This eliminates the need for expensive commercial pet shipping services and lets your pets experience a smoother transition to their new home.

  • Limited Spots, Early Booking Key: However, space for pets on AMC flights is limited and fills up quickly. To secure your pet's spot, contact your local Transportation Office as early as possible, ideally 90 to 120 days in advance of your desired travel month. Remember, it's first-come, first-served!

  • Weight Limits & Other Considerations: Before booking, ensure your pet and their kennel stay within the weight limit (typically 150 lbs combined). Additionally, some seasonal breed restrictions and general pet travel regulations may apply. Check with your Transportation Office or visit the AMC Pet Travel page https://www.amc.af.mil/AMC-Travel-Site/AMC-Pet-Travel-Page.aspx for the latest information and any breed-specific limitations.

  • Don't wait! By planning ahead and taking advantage of AMC pet travel, you can ensure a cost-effective and stress-free move for your entire family, furry friends included.)

Overseas PCS with Pets: COMING SOON!

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Overseas PCS with Pets: COMING SOON! 〰️

We know navigating a PCS with pets overseas can be especially daunting. Stay tuned! We're creating a series of guides to help you conquer your PCS to specific locations, starting with a comprehensive guide for PCSing with pets to Japan! Find it in our resource library soon.

Jessica Cook
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