PCS Pet Shipping: What's Covered by Military Reimbursement (2025 Guide)

PCS moves are stressful enough without wondering how you'll pay to bring your pets. This guide breaks down exactly what the military covers, what's out-of-pocket, and how to maximize your reimbursement.

The Short Answer

The military does not directly pay for pet shipping. However, service members may be eligible for partial reimbursement of pet transportation costs under the Joint Travel Regulations (JTR). The reimbursement amount and eligibility depend on your orders, destination, and whether you meet specific criteria.

Current JTR Pet Transportation Allowance

Under the Joint Travel Regulations (JTR), Chapter 5, service members may receive reimbursement for transporting household pets during a PCS move.

What's Potentially Covered

Transportation costs (with limitations):

• Commercial pet shipping services
• Airline cargo fees for pets
• Ground transportation of pets
• Pet-in-cabin fees (for small pets)

Not covered:

• Quarantine fees
• Veterinary expenses
• Kennel or crate purchases
• Pet boarding before/after move
• Import permits or documentation fees
• Insurance for pets

Reimbursement Limits

The JTR caps pet transportation reimbursement based on:

• Weight of the pet and crate (charged against household goods weight allowance) OR
• Flat rate reimbursement per pet (varies by location and circumstances)

Typical caps:

• Up to $550 per pet for CONUS moves
• Up to $2,000-4,000 for OCONUS moves (location dependent)
• Maximum 2 pets per service member

Note: These figures change periodically. Always verify current rates with your finance office or the latest JTR.

Who Qualifies for Pet Reimbursement?

Eligible Moves

Pet reimbursement is typically available for:

• Permanent Change of Station (PCS) with orders
• OCONUS to OCONUS transfers
• OCONUS to CONUS return moves
• CONUS to OCONUS assignments
• Government-directed moves where pet transport is impractical via POV

May NOT Qualify

• TDY/TAD assignments
• Training moves under 20 weeks
• Moves where driving is feasible (CONUS to CONUS)
• Pets acquired after orders are issued (some exceptions)
• More than 2 pets total

Special Circumstances

Remote or isolated duty stations: Higher reimbursement may be available when:

• Commercial pet transport is the only option
• The duty station has limited access
• Government quarters require pets to be shipped

Accompanied vs. unaccompanied tours:

• Accompanied tours: pet reimbursement usually available
• Unaccompanied tours: pets typically not authorized

How to Maximize Your Reimbursement

Step 1: Get It in Writing

Before booking anything:

1. Request written authorization from your Transportation Office (TO)
2. Verify pet reimbursement eligibility with Finance
3. Document that pet transport was necessary (not optional)

Step 2: Choose the Right Service

What qualifies for reimbursement:

• Licensed, insured pet transport companies
• Commercial airline pet cargo services
• Professional pet shipping with receipts

Keep detailed receipts showing:

• Service provider name and license
• Date of service
• Origin and destination
• Pet identification
• Itemized costs

Step 3: Document Everything

Required documentation typically includes:

• Copy of PCS orders
• Pet shipping receipts (itemized)
• Proof of payment
• Transportation Office authorization
• Health certificates (shows pet was transported)

Step 4: File Properly in DTS

When completing your travel voucher:

1. Include pet transportation as a separate line item
2. Attach all receipts
3. Reference JTR authorization
4. Include written approval from TO
5. Keep copies of everything submitted

What You'll Pay Out-of-Pocket

Even with reimbursement, expect to cover these costs yourself:

Always Out-of-Pocket

| Expense | Typical Cost | |---------|--------------| | IATA-compliant crate | $100-400 | | Veterinary exam | $50-150 | | Health certificate | $50-150 | | USDA endorsement | $38+ | | Vaccinations | $50-200 | | Microchip | $25-75 | | Rabies titer test | $150-300 | | Import permits | $0-200 | | Quarantine fees | $500-3,000+ |

Often Out-of-Pocket

| Expense | Typical Cost | Notes | |---------|--------------|-------| | Costs exceeding cap | Varies | Difference between actual and max reimbursement | | Third+ pet | Full cost | Only 2 pets covered | | Boarding | $25-75/day | Pre/post move | | Pet insurance | $50-200 | For travel |

Branch-Specific Guidance

Army

• File through Defense Travel System (DTS)
• Contact Installation Transportation Office
• Reference AR 55-46 for additional guidance

Navy/Marine Corps

• Process through Household Goods office
• Contact Personal Property Office
• OCONUS moves may have additional allowances

Air Force

• Work with Traffic Management Office (TMO)
• Submit through DTS with orders attachment
• Verify Space-A pet policies if applicable

Coast Guard

• Contact Base Housing/Transportation
• Similar JTR rules apply
• May have different processing procedures

Common Reimbursement Mistakes

1. Booking Before Authorization

Problem: You pay for pet transport before getting written approval Result: Claim denied or reduced

Solution: Always get Transportation Office authorization first

2. Missing Receipts

Problem: No itemized receipt from pet shipper Result: Unable to substantiate claim

Solution: Request detailed receipts showing all services

3. Exceeding Pet Limits

Problem: Trying to claim reimbursement for 3+ pets Result: Third pet denied entirely

Solution: Budget for additional pets out-of-pocket

4. Including Non-Covered Expenses

Problem: Bundling vet bills, crates, and quarantine with transport Result: Entire claim flagged for review

Solution: Only claim transportation costs; separate receipts for other expenses

5. Wrong Forms or Timing

Problem: Filing pet expenses on wrong voucher or late Result: Delayed or denied reimbursement

Solution: Include with PCS travel voucher; file within required timeframe

Real Cost Examples

Example 1: CONUS to Germany (1 Large Dog)

| Item | Cost | Reimbursable? | |------|------|---------------| | Pet shipping service | $2,800 | Yes (up to cap) | | IATA crate | $350 | No | | Health certificate & USDA | $175 | No | | Vaccinations | $85 | No | | EU titer test | $250 | No | | Total cost | $3,660 | | | Estimated reimbursement | $2,000-2,500 | | | Out-of-pocket | $1,160-1,660 | |

Example 2: Japan to CONUS (2 Cats)

| Item | Cost | Reimbursable? | |------|------|---------------| | Pet shipping (2 cats) | $3,200 | Yes (up to cap) | | 2 IATA crates | $250 | No | | Vet exams (2) | $200 | No | | Health certificates | $100 | No | | Total cost | $3,750 | | | Estimated reimbursement | $2,500-3,200 | | | Out-of-pocket | $550-1,250 | |

Example 3: Hawaii to Mainland (1 Medium Dog)

| Item | Cost | Reimbursable? | |------|------|---------------| | Pet shipping service | $1,500 | Yes | | IATA crate | $200 | No | | Health certificate | $125 | No | | Total cost | $1,825 | | | Estimated reimbursement | $1,200-1,500 | | | Out-of-pocket | $325-625 | |

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I ship my pet as part of my household goods?

No. Pets cannot be included in HHG shipments. They must be transported separately via commercial pet shipping or airline cargo.

What if my pet costs more to ship than the reimbursement cap?

You pay the difference. The JTR caps reimbursement, so any amount above the limit is your responsibility.

Are exotic pets covered?

The JTR covers "household pets," typically dogs and cats. Exotic animals, livestock, and some species may not qualify. Check with your Transportation Office.

Can I get reimbursed if I drive my pet?

Generally, no additional reimbursement is provided if you transport your pet in your POV during a CONUS move. The assumption is you're already driving.

What if airlines won't fly my pet?

If commercial pet shipping is required due to airline restrictions (breed, size, temperature), document this thoroughly. It may support a higher reimbursement request.

How long does reimbursement take?

Typically 30-60 days after voucher submission, assuming all documentation is complete.

Tips for a Smooth Reimbursement Process

1. Start early — Talk to your Transportation Office as soon as you receive orders
2. Get written authorization — Email confirmation is acceptable
3. Use reputable shippers — Licensed, insured, with proper receipts
4. Keep originals — Store physical copies of all documents
5. File promptly — Don't wait until the deadline
6. Follow up — Check DTS status regularly
7. Appeal if denied — Legitimate claims can often be reconsidered with additional documentation

Need Help with Your Military PCS Pet Move?

BestPetTravel specializes in military PCS pet relocations. We understand the timelines, documentation requirements, and stress of military moves.

We provide:

• Itemized receipts acceptable for JTR reimbursement
• Coordination with your PCS timeline
• Documentation assistance
• Door-to-door service for OCONUS moves

Get a Military Pet Shipping Quote →

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