PCS Pet Travel Reimbursement Rules 2025

The Department of Defense's 2025 PCS pet travel reimbursement rules help military families cover pet-related moving costs. Here's a quick breakdown:

• What’s Covered: Airline pet fees, health certificates, vaccinations, quarantine expenses, pet carriers, microchipping, and emergency vet care during transit.
• Reimbursement Limits: Increased limits for domestic and international moves, plus coverage for quarantine fees and professional pet shipping when necessary.
• How to Claim: Submit DD Form 1351-2, receipts, PCS orders, and other required documents within 5 business days of your move.
• Special Notes: Rules may vary for international relocations and destinations with strict pet entry protocols.

Start preparing 3–4 months before your move to ensure smooth reimbursement. Early planning, accurate paperwork, and understanding these updates can save you time and money.

Who Can Get Reimbursed and What's Covered

Approved Expenses

Under the 2025 PCS policy, the following pet-related expenses are eligible for reimbursement:

• Airline pet fees
• Required health certificates for pet travel
• Quarantine costs for international relocations (if applicable)
• Costs for pet carriers or crates
• Vaccinations needed for travel
• Microchipping fees (if required)
• Emergency veterinary care during transit

Make sure to confirm these details with your travel coordinator. Up next, let’s look at the qualifications for reimbursement.

How to File for Reimbursement

Required Documents

To file a reimbursement claim for pet travel, make sure you have the following:

• DD Form 1351-2 (Travel Voucher): Completed and signed
• Original receipts for pet-related expenses
• Copy of PCS orders
• Pet health certificates and vaccination records
• Quarantine paperwork (for international moves)
• Veterinary bills for travel requirements
• Proof of payment for airline pet fees or transport costs
• Statement of Unavailability of Government Transportation (if applicable)

It’s a good idea to keep digital copies of everything, organized by date.

Filing Your Claim

Submit your claim within 5 business days after your move. Here’s how:

1. Fill Out DD Form 1351-2

• Include your travel itinerary in Block 15.
• List pet-related expenses in Block 18.
• Sign and date the form in Block 29.

2. Attach Supporting Documents

Gather all required documents, arrange them in order, and clearly highlight pet-related expenses on your receipts.

3. Track Your Submission

Make a note of your claim number. Processing usually takes 10–15 business days.

Avoiding Delays

To ensure your claim gets processed without issues, follow these tips:

• Double-check your paperwork: Incomplete forms or missing documents can slow things down.
• Submit on time: Claims filed after the 5-day window may require extra approval.
• Separate expenses: Clearly mark pet-related costs apart from general travel expenses.
• Stick to approved items: Claims for unapproved expenses will likely be rejected.

Keeping a detailed log of expenses - dates, amounts, and purposes - can make the process much smoother.

Special Cases

Military Spouse Guidelines

When both spouses receive active PCS orders, only one claim is processed per household. It's important for service members to check with their Transportation Office to understand the process and provide all necessary paperwork. Additional rules may apply when relocating to areas with specific pet entry requirements.

Relocating to Areas with Pet Entry Rules

Some destinations have strict pet entry protocols, and not all related costs will be reimbursed. Expenses like quarantine, testing, or permit fees might not qualify under current policies. To avoid surprises, consult your Transportation Office to determine which costs are covered and prepare for any unique requirements.

Commercial Pet Transport Options

If military-provided pet transport isn't available, commercial pet shipping services can be used. Be sure to confirm with your Transportation Office that this option is allowed and clarify any necessary documentation or cost limits in advance.

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How to get Money for your Military Pet Travel Expenses ...

Planning Your Pet's Move

Getting ready for your pet's PCS move requires early preparation to make the process smoother and keep all necessary paperwork in order. Here's a timeline to help you stay on track.

Pet Move Timeline

3–4 Months Before:

• Schedule vet visits for vaccinations and health certificates.
• Check the pet entry requirements for your destination.
• Start gathering documents needed for reimbursement.

2 Months Before:

• Reserve pet-friendly accommodations.
• Buy or rent suitable travel carriers.
• Update your pet's ID tags and microchip information.

1 Month Before:

• Double-check transportation arrangements.
• Gather pet supplies and any required medications.
• Make copies of all veterinary and travel-related documents.

Sticking to a timeline ensures you're prepared, and it helps you keep track of expenses that might qualify for reimbursement.

Pet Housing Options

When planning housing for your pet, consider these choices:

Short-Term Solutions:

• Extended-stay hotels that allow pets.
• Military lodging facilities with pet-friendly policies.
• Vacation rentals near your duty station that welcome pets.

Long-Term Planning:

• Review pet policies for base housing.
• Look for off-base rentals that accommodate pets.
• Explore temporary boarding facilities if needed.

Taking time to plan housing options ensures your pet's comfort during the transition. Partnering with professional movers can also make the process easier.

Moving Services Through MOD24

Simplify your PCS move by coordinating your pet's transport with your household move through MOD24. This platform connects you with licensed, insured movers who specialize in military relocations. Key features include:

• Movers experienced in handling military moves.
• The ability to compare quotes online.
• Premium customer support for adjustments or special requests.

Summary

Understand the 2025 PCS pet travel reimbursement rules to help manage your relocation expenses. You can claim costs for pet carrier fees, health certificates, quarantine expenses, and more. Start preparing your documents about 3–4 months before your move.

Your eligibility for reimbursement depends on factors like:

• The location of your duty station
• The number and type of pets you have
• The transportation method you use
• Having all required documentation

MOD24's platform simplifies the process by coordinating household goods and pet transportation services, specifically designed to assist with military relocations.

Thorough preparation and accurate paperwork can help you make the most of your reimbursements while reducing stress during your move.