3 Tips For Moving to Hawaii With Your Pet | Our Furry Four-Legged Family Members

Any move that involves relocating a family pet requires a little extra planning to ensure the pet’s safety and comfort. It’s easy for your dog or cat to get stressed by the change of surroundings, uncomfortable traveling conditions, and the lack of direct contact with its family. Moving your pet to Hawaii takes even more advanced planning than a typical mainland move, but if you follow these tips, you and your furry friend will soon be enjoying your new Hawaii Life.

1. It’s Best to Move in Spring or Fall

In the winter of 1978, my husband’s family was suffering through another cold mid-western winter and decided they had had enough. They made the decision to relocate to Oahu, and immediately started searching for new jobs and a new home, but they waited until winter was over to make their final move. The reason, it was too cold for my husband’s dog to be flown out of their local airport. 

Airlines have very specific criteria around the transportation of live animals, so before you book your tickets, make sure you fully understand the airline’s requirements. Remember that too hot can be just as bad, if not worse, than too cold, so try to target spring or fall for your relocation. 

Also, try to book a direct flight if possible, and consider the average temperature of any connecting city, if it can’t be avoided. There are several companies that specialize in transporting pets to Hawaii and can help eliminate the stress of trying to do it all yourself.

2. Follow Hawaii Quarantine Requirements

Hawaii has a strict quarantine policy to prevent the outbreak of rabies. All animals entering the state must be vaccinated at least 120 days prior to arrival. Failure to pre-vaccinate following the checklist means your pet will be quarantined on the island for 4 months at a cost of over $1,000. 

By planning ahead, and working with your local vet, your pet can qualify for direct release at the airport and you can substantially reduce the cost. Read the full details about Hawaii’s anti-rabies quarantine program.

3. Make Sure Your Building is Pet-Friendly

If your vision for your new Hawaii Life includes living in a condo or townhome, make sure the building or development is pet-friendly before you make an offer or sign a lease. Even if cats and small dogs are allowed, larger dogs may be prohibited.

Put My Experience to Work For You

If you need any assistance buying, building, or renting a pet-friendly home on Oahu, I’d be glad to help.