PCSing with Pets: Your Definitive Guide to Stress-Free Travel
- permanentchangeofa
- Nov 28, 2025
- 4 min read
Updated: Dec 13, 2025
PCSing is inherently stressful, and managing a "fur baby" (or two!) adds another layer of complexity. Having successfully moved my dog and cat five times into and out of the U.S.A., I've learned a few crucial lessons.
Here is the quick guide to getting your pets ready for international travel.
Critical Disclaimer: Start Your Research Now
Regulations and rules vary widely by airline and country. Always do your own thorough research. The following advice is based on experience, but official policies change constantly.
Phase 1: Health & Vaccination Preparation
START AS EARLY AS POSSIBLE! This is the most crucial piece of advice.
Annual Sync-Up: In the year you expect your PCS, ensure all routine vaccinations are completed early in the calendar year.
Rabies Rules are Strict: If you are PCSing back to the U.S. or into certain other countries from a high-threat rabies country (check the CDC country list CLICK HERE), regulations regarding rabies vaccine frequency and timing are extremely stringent.
The complex navigation of returning to the U.S. from a high-threat area is a huge topic, and I will share a separate post about that soon.
Overseas Best Practice: While the U.S. allows a three-year rabies vaccination interval, many foreign countries do not. If you are already overseas and there is any chance of PCSing to another country, I strongly recommend yearly rabies vaccinations.
Timing Serology Tests: Many countries require a minimum waiting period after a rabies vaccination before a rabies serology (titer) test can be taken. This test timing directly impacts when you can receive the final importation documents, which is necessary before your pet can fly.
Phase 2: Booking Flights and Travel Logistics
BOOK FLIGHTS IMMEDIATELY! Pet spaces fill up fast.
Limited Pet Slots: Most airlines only allow a maximum of two pets in the cargo hold and two in the cabin. These spots are scarce and fill up quickly.
Pre-Planning: The night you receive your expected PCS destination, start planning your flight route immediately. Although you cannot book until you have final orders, having the airline and route planned means you can secure the limited pet space ASAP.
Multiple Airlines = Multiple Calls: NOTE: If your travel involves multiple airlines (even if booked under one itinerary), you must call each airline and book and pay for the pet space separately.
Connection Restrictions: Be aware that some airlines impose temperature-based restrictions on connections due to extreme hot or cold weather. For instance, on one PCS to Washington, D.C., we had to land in New York and drive the rest of the way because the airline would not transfer pets in the summer for the final leg from LaGuardia to Dulles.
Always Carry Paperwork: Always have printed copies of all airline receipts, including the Electronic Miscellaneous Document (EMD) number. Smaller airports do not always receive proper updates, even from major airlines.
Phase 3: Essential Kennel Setup & Documentation
Safety and security are non-negotiable for pet cargo travel.
The Right Carrier: When pets travel in the cargo hold, we use the Petmate Sky Kennel (CLICK HERE). It is durable and standard for air travel.
Required Modifications: Most airlines will require specific modifications:
Metal hardware (nuts and bolts) to fasten the two kennel halves together (plastic clips often fail inspection).
Notification and information stickers on all sides.
Zip ties to secure the kennel door (usually applied by the agent at check-in).
You can purchase a compliant modification kit (CLICK HERE) to meet these requirements.
Inside the Kennel:
Place an absorbent puppy pad at the bottom in case of accidents.
Include their favorite bed or blanket for comfort.
Freeze water in the attached food dish. This dramatically helps the water last longer during the flight and prevents splashing and spilling.
External Documents (Critical):
Gather copies of your pet's shot records, travel tickets, payment receipts, and all required export and importation paperwork.
Place these COPIES in a clear Ziploc bag and securely tape it to the top of the kennel, ensuring the contents remain visible and accessible for inspection.
In a small bag or pouch attached to the outside, pack a leash and harness for airline workers to use if they need to walk your pet during a layover.
In a separate gallon Ziploc bag, pack enough dry food for 4-5 days. This is essential insurance in case of a flight delay or cancellation and allows airline employees to offer food during extended layovers.
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