For those who long to enjoy a tropical paradise with balmy breezes, friendly people, wonderful snorkeling, diving, great food, and beautiful waters, Hawaii is a great destination for you and your pet.

Regulations For Pets Traveling To Hawaii

Although part of the United States, the Hawaiian Islands are free of rabies, and, as such, pet owners entering Hawaii with their pets should plan well in advance.

In order to avoid quarantine, your pet must follow a schedule to qualify for Hawaii’s Five Day or Less Program. Your pet must be microchipped, vaccinated twice at specific intervals, and must complete a Blood Titer Test not less than four months prior to entering Hawaii. All documents, including a Hawaiian Dog & Cat Import Form, must be endorsed by the USDA and sent to the Animal Quarantine Branch more than 10 days prior to entry. Additionally, a health certificate must be completed by your veterinarian within 14 days of travel.

If the schedule is followed properly, and you arrive in Honolulu by mid-afternoon, you can claim your pet at the Airport Animal Quarantine Holding Facility on the same day. From that point, you’ll be free to travel to the outer islands, with the exception of Oahu, for up to four months.

Enjoying Hawaii With Your Pet

Just a small view of the beautiful Liliuokalani Gardens in Hawaii

When you and your pet get tired of watching the turquoise waters lap the shore, there are plenty of dog parks in Honolulu including Honolulu Bark Park, McKerny, and Hawaii Kai.

In Hilo, you and your pet can enjoy Liliuokalani Gardens, a 30-acre park featuring the largest display of Japanese gardens outside of Japan. Well behaved, leashed pets are welcome in the park, as they are in most of the Hawaiian national parks.

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park affords pet owners the unique opportunity to share a drive around the crater of an active volcano and feel the hot steam escaping from nearby fissures.

There is no shortage of pet friendly accommodations and restaurants in Hawaii. The temperate climate lends itself to outdoor dining and the island way is relaxed and casual. Residents of the islands are friendly and welcoming.

Comments