Traveling to Hawaii with your dog requires careful planning and adherence to specific regulations. TRAVELS.EDU.VN is here to guide you through the process, ensuring a smooth and stress-free experience for both you and your furry friend. This guide will break down the requirements, costs, and options for bringing your dog to the Aloha State, including quarantine procedures and necessary documentation, helping you navigate the process with confidence.
1. Understanding Hawaii’s Quarantine Law
Hawaii is the only rabies-free state in the United States, a status it fiercely protects to safeguard public health, the unique ecosystem, tourism, and local lifestyles. The introduction of rabies could have devastating consequences, necessitating costly animal and human health programs.
To prevent rabies from entering the state, Hawaii mandates a quarantine for all dogs, cats, and carnivores. This law ensures that any animal potentially carrying the virus is monitored before being allowed to roam freely. The quarantine program is funded entirely by its users, with no taxpayer money allocated. According to the Hawaii Department of Agriculture, maintaining this rabies-free status is crucial for the state’s overall well-being.
1.1. Why is Hawaii the Only Rabies-Free State?
Hawaii’s geographical isolation plays a significant role in its rabies-free status. Being an island, it naturally limits the entry of animals that could carry the disease. Stringent regulations and quarantine protocols further reinforce this protection.
1.2. Consequences of Rabies Introduction
The introduction of rabies would not only pose a direct threat to public health but also disrupt Hawaii’s delicate ecosystem. Many native species are particularly vulnerable, and the disease could spread rapidly among wildlife. Additionally, the economic impact on tourism, a vital industry for Hawaii, would be significant.
2. Quarantine Options and Costs
Hawaii offers several quarantine options, each with different requirements and costs. The most common are the 120-day quarantine and the 5 Day Or Less quarantine. There is also a direct release program. Understanding these options is crucial for planning your trip.
2.1. 120-Day Quarantine Program
The 120-day quarantine is the standard option for pets that do not meet the requirements for the shorter programs. It involves a mandatory stay at the Animal Quarantine Station (AQS) in Halawa Valley.
Cost: $1,080 per pet
This cost covers the entire quarantine period and includes care, feeding, and monitoring of your pet. There are no discounts for multiple pets, as the program is designed to be self-sustaining.
2.2. 5 Day Or Less Quarantine Program
The 5 Day Or Less quarantine is a streamlined option for pets that meet specific pre-arrival requirements, making it a popular choice for many pet owners.
Cost: $244 per pet
To qualify, your pet must meet stringent health and documentation criteria before arrival.
2.3. Direct Release Program
The direct release program allows pets to be released directly to the owner at the airport, provided all pre-arrival requirements are met.
Cost: $185 per pet
This is the most convenient option, but it requires meticulous planning and adherence to all regulations.
2.4. Military Reimbursement
Active duty military members may be eligible for reimbursement of quarantine expenses. The U.S. Department of Defense may reimburse up to $550 per family for dogs or cats. Check with your command for availability and details.
A dog being transported in its carrier at an airport, highlighting the importance of secure and comfortable travel arrangements for pets.
3. Qualifying for the 5 Day Or Less Quarantine
To qualify for the 5 Day Or Less quarantine program, several pre-shipment requirements must be met. These requirements ensure that your pet is healthy and poses minimal risk of carrying rabies.
3.1. Rabies Vaccinations
Your pet must have received at least two rabies vaccinations in its lifetime. The second vaccination must be administered no less than 30 days after the first. The most recent vaccination must be given:
- No less than 30 days and no more than 12 months prior to arrival in Hawaii for 12-month licensed vaccines.
- No less than 30 days and no more than 36 months prior to arrival in Hawaii for 3-year licensed vaccines.
3.2. Microchipping
Your pet must be microchipped for identification. The microchip number is essential for matching your pet with its blood sample and records.
3.3. OIE-FAVN Blood Test
A blood sample must be sent to an approved laboratory for the OIE-Fluorescent Antibody Serum Neutralization Test (OIE-FAVN). This test measures your pet’s response to the rabies vaccine. A result greater than 0.5 IU/ml is required to demonstrate adequate immunity.
3.4. Waiting Period
A mandatory waiting period is required after the laboratory receives the blood sample. For the 5 Day Or Less quarantine, a 30-day pre-arrival waiting period is necessary. This waiting period allows time for the test results to be processed and ensures that your pet is healthy before entering the state. According to the Rabies Quarantine Brochure published by the Hawaii Department of Agriculture, strict adherence to these timelines is critical.
3.5. Consequences of Non-Compliance
If any of these pre-arrival requirements are not met, your pet will not qualify for the 5 Day Or Less quarantine and must complete the 120-day quarantine program. Therefore, meticulous planning and adherence to the guidelines are crucial.
4. What Happens If My Pet Arrives Early?
If your pet arrives in Hawaii before the required waiting period has elapsed, it will not qualify for the shorter quarantine program. Instead, your pet must remain in quarantine until it has completed the 120-day waiting period after passing an OIE-FAVN rabies serological test and until at least 90 days have passed since the most recent rabies vaccination.
4.1. Costs for Early Arrival
You will be charged $14.30 for each day in quarantine, plus the standard $244 quarantine fee. This can significantly increase the overall cost, highlighting the importance of adhering to the specified timelines.
5. How to Check Your Pet’s OIE-FAVN Test Results
The laboratories performing the OIE-FAVN test send the results directly to the Animal Quarantine Station and your veterinarian. In most cases, your veterinarian will receive the results before the quarantine station posts them online.
5.1. Online Verification
You can check the status of your pet’s test results on the Department’s website. The website also indicates the earliest date your pet can enter Hawaii and qualify for the 5 Day Or Less quarantine, based on the 30-day waiting period. Be sure that the two required rabies vaccinations are also in compliance for your pet to qualify.
5.2. Update Frequency
The website is updated weekly. However, during peak periods or staffing shortages, the interval between updates may extend to three or four weeks. If you need results urgently, contact your veterinarian, who can often provide them sooner.
6. Exemptions to the Quarantine
While the quarantine is mandatory for most animals, there are a few exceptions. These exemptions apply to specific categories of animals and certain geographical locations.
6.1. Guide and Service Dogs
Guide dogs for the blind and certified service dogs for individuals with disabilities are exempt from quarantine confinement. To qualify, these dogs must meet pre-shipment requirements, including:
- Current rabies vaccination
- Passing an OIE-FAVN rabies blood test with a result > 0.5 IU/ml
- Certification as a guide or service dog
For detailed information, visit the Hawaii Department of Agriculture’s website dedicated to guide and service dogs.
6.2. Animals from Rabies-Free Areas
Dogs and cats from New Zealand, Australia, Guam, and the British Isles may also be exempt. To import a dog or cat from these specific rabies-free areas, an import permit number is not required. However, if the exporting country requires an import permit number before exporting a pet to Hawaii, contact the Animal Quarantine Station.
7. Arrival Procedure in Honolulu
Honolulu International Airport is the sole port of entry for all animals entering Hawaii. All animals must arrive in Honolulu for inspection and quarantine processing.
7.1. Airport Handling
Upon arrival, airline personnel will take your dog or cat from the aircraft and deliver them to the Airport Animal Quarantine Holding Facility. Pets are removed from their carriers, placed in indoor kennels, and provided with fresh water. Food is provided upon request.
7.2. Transfer to the Main Quarantine Station
Pets arriving during the day are transferred to the main Animal Quarantine Station in Halawa Valley via scheduled van runs. If your pet arrives after 3:00 p.m., it will stay overnight at the airport facility and be transferred the next morning.
8. Visiting Your Pet at the Airport Facility
If you are concerned about your pet’s well-being after the flight, a brief visual inspection is permitted at the Airport Animal Quarantine Holding Facility.
8.1. Location
The office is located on the Ewa Service Road, between the interisland terminal and the main terminal.
8.2. Contact Information
Owners may also call the airport facility for updates on their pets. The phone number is (808) 837-8092.
A map illustrating the location of the Airport Animal Quarantine Holding Facility in Honolulu, providing clear directions for pet owners.
9. Transiting Through Hawaii
If you are transiting through Hawaii to another destination and plan to vacation in Hawaii for a short period with your dog or cat, specific procedures apply.
9.1. Quarantine Requirements
Pets in transit must stay in quarantine for the duration of your stay. The airline will transport the pet from the airplane to the Airport Animal Quarantine Holding Facility, and then to the main Animal Quarantine Station in Halawa Valley.
9.2. Health Certificate
Your pet will require a health certificate issued by an accredited veterinarian within 14 days prior to arrival in Honolulu.
9.3. Costs for Transit
The cost per pet includes administrative fees and daily boarding charges.
- Administrative fees: $45
- Daily food and kenneling: $14.30 per day
9.4. Payment Options
Fees can be paid at the Airport office or at the main Quarantine Station the day after arrival. Payment can be made via cash, VISA, MasterCard, or traveler’s checks.
9.5. Departure Information
Provide the staff with your departure information at least 72 hours before departure to ensure your pet is returned to the airport in time for your flight. Remind the airline to pick up your pet when you check in.
10. Airline Regulations for Pets
The Department of Agriculture does not regulate where pets fly within the aircraft. Airline policies dictate whether pets can travel in the passenger cabin or must travel as cargo.
10.1. Airline Responsibility
Airlines are legally required to transport all incoming animals directly from the plane to the Airport Animal Quarantine Holding Facility.
10.2. In-Cabin Restrictions
Animals under quarantine transiting from the Airport Animal Quarantine Holding Facility to an approved outer island satellite quarantine facility or approved veterinary hospital are generally not permitted to fly in-cabin. Special arrangements may be made with the Airport Animal Quarantine Holding Facility to arrange for an inspector to accompany the animal if medical issues necessitate in-cabin travel.
11. Sending Your Pet Ahead of Your Arrival
You do not need to be present when your pet arrives in Honolulu. However, proper labeling and documentation are essential.
11.1. Carrier Labeling
Label your pet’s airline carrier with the full names of the owner and any co-owner. Include complete addresses and phone numbers for emergency contact.
11.2. Dog and Cat Import Form (AQS-279)
Send a completed Dog and Cat Import Form (AQS-279) ahead of your pet’s arrival so that the information is on file. Only the names appearing on the Shipmaster’s Declaration form will be recognized as the legal owners of your pet for quarantine purposes.
12. Designating a Co-Owner
If you cannot be in Hawaii, you can designate someone else to oversee your pet’s care during quarantine.
12.1. Co-Owner Designation
List someone in Hawaii as a co-owner on the Dog and Cat Import Form (AQS-279). This authorizes the person to visit the pet and act on your behalf.
12.2. Notarized Letter
Alternatively, send a notarized letter to the Animal Quarantine Station authorizing a person to visit your pet. Include the ID number of this person in the letter.
13. Location of the Animal Quarantine Station
The Animal Quarantine Station is located in Halawa Valley.
13.1. Address
99-951 Halawa Valley Street.
13.2. Contact Information
- Phone: (808) 483-7151
- Fax: (808) 483-7161
13.3. Public Transportation
For information about bus transportation to the facility, call TheBus at 848-5555.
14. Visiting Hours at the Quarantine Station
Visiting hours are limited to specific days and times.
14.1. Visiting Schedule
- Tuesdays, Thursdays: 1:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.
- Wednesdays: 1:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.
- Saturday, Sunday: 12:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.
The station is closed for visitation on state holidays, Mondays, and Fridays.
15. Who Can Visit Your Pet?
Only registered owners or designated co-owners can visit your pet.
15.1. Visitor Pass
An AQS-issued visitor pass must be obtained, and a valid photo identification must be presented at each visit.
15.2. Kennel Visits Only
All visits are strictly in the kennel. You may not remove your pet from the kennel.
16. Kennel Sizes
Kennel sizes vary depending on the size of the dog.
16.1. Dog Kennels
Kennels are approximately 6 feet wide and vary in length from 14 feet (small dogs) to 25 feet (large dogs) and are seven feet high. Each kennel includes a run in front and a sheltered area in the back.
16.2. Cat Kennels
Cat kennels are about 5 feet wide and 10 feet long and include platforms, a sheltered area, and a catwalk.
16.3. Visitor Seating
Each dog and cat kennel contains a bench for visitor seating.
An Alaskan Malamute standing in snow. Large dog breeds require adequate kennel space to move around comfortably during quarantine.
17. Housing Multiple Pets
Pets are typically housed separately to allow staff to monitor individual feeding and elimination habits.
17.1. Housing Together
Pets of the same species may be housed together if the owner accepts full responsibility for their daily feeding, cleaning, health monitoring, medicating, and grooming during quarantine. Those providing “Complete Care” must attend to their pet’s needs seven days a week. Refer to the Hawaii Department of Agriculture’s Rabies Quarantine Program brochure for more information.
18. Multiple Pet Visitation (MPV) Program
Owners may be authorized to move their pets to the same kennel during regular afternoon visits under the Multiple Pet Visitation (MPV) program.
18.1. Requirements
The owner must attend an MPV orientation session and submit the MPV Visitation Request Form to the veterinary staff for approval. Pets must be of the same species.
19. 120-Day Quarantine Requirements
If your pet is undergoing the 120-day quarantine, there are specific requirements you need to meet.
19.1. Health Certificate
Your pet needs a health certificate issued by an accredited veterinarian within 14 days before arrival in Honolulu.
19.2. Vaccinations
Your pet should have a record of current rabies and standard vaccinations against common infectious diseases, be free of parasites, and treated for ticks and external parasites.
20. Quarantine on Neighbor Islands
While the main Animal Quarantine Station is on Oahu, there are options for quarantine on other islands.
20.1. Kauai Satellite Quarantine Station
Kauai is the only island with a satellite quarantine station. Owners must make prior arrangements with the Kauai Humane Society.
- Kauai Humane Society
- P.O. Box 3330
- Lihue, HI 96766
- Phone: (808) 632-0610
20.2. Approved Veterinary Hospitals
There are approved animal hospitals on Hawaii Island (Kona), Maui, and Kauai where pets can be quarantined. A list of approved veterinary hospitals is available in the FORMS section on the Animal Quarantine Information Page.
20.3. Transfer Procedures
Pets being quarantined at a satellite kennel or animal hospital must first arrive at the Animal Quarantine Station on Oahu for positive identification and examination. Pets typically stay in Honolulu for at least two days before being transferred. Due to limited inter-island flights, pets arriving on Thursday or Friday may not be transferred until the following Monday.
20.4. Costs
Owners must pay fees to the Animal Quarantine Station before the pet is transferred to the satellite facility. Owners are also responsible for paying fees charged by the satellite facilities. The 120-day quarantine costs approximately $136 (in addition to satellite station fees).
21. Medical Conditions and Quarantine Options
If your pet has a medical condition aggravated by quarantine confinement, you may request quarantine in an approved animal hospital.
21.1. Approved Animal Hospitals
Owners are responsible for making arrangements with their preferred animal hospital. A list of approved animal hospitals is available on the Animal Quarantine Information Page.
21.2. Procedures
Similar to pets going to satellite quarantine facilities, pets approved to complete quarantine in animal hospitals must arrive in Honolulu first to complete entry requirements. They will typically be transported to the animal hospital about two days after applicable fees are paid.
22. Pets Arriving from Foreign Countries
The requirements for pets arriving from foreign countries vary depending on the country of origin.
22.1. Exempt Countries
Only pets arriving from the British Isles, Australia, Guam, and New Zealand may qualify for exempt status. A checklist is available for pets arriving from these locations.
22.2. Other Countries
All other pets must qualify under one of the other programs or complete the 120-day program.
23. Returning to Hawaii with a Resident Pet
If you live in Hawaii and plan to take your pet out of state for vacation, there are steps to ensure your pet does not have to undergo quarantine upon returning.
23.1. Requirements
Owners wishing to leave Hawaii with their pets and return without extended quarantine must meet all requirements for resident dogs and cats originating from Hawaii and returning for the 5-day-or-less quarantine program.
23.2. Health Certificate
Pet owners must submit the original health certificate issued by their veterinarian before departure from Hawaii, including the pet’s Hawaii address and date of departure.
24. Pets Transiting Through Hawaii to a Foreign Country
The international movement of companion animals is regulated by the U.S. Dept. of Agriculture, Animal & Plant Health Inspection Service (USDA-APHIS), a federal agency.
24.1. USDA-APHIS Regulations
Information on import requirements for different countries is available on the USDA-APHIS website.
24.2. Hawaii Veterinary Services Endorsement Office
Contact information for the Hawaii Veterinary Services Endorsement Office:
- USDA, APHIS, VS, FiOps, Port Services, Collateral Port Offices, Honolulu
- 3375 Koapaka Street, Ste. H420
- Honolulu, HI 96819
- Phone: 808‐838‐2854
24.3. Private Veterinarian Services
Owners are required to use the services of a private veterinarian to meet the import requirements of the destination country. The private veterinarian will assist with sampling, testing, and treatments required for import into international destinations, and will work with USDA-APHIS to arrange for endorsement of international certificates. The Animal Quarantine Station does not provide this service.
FAQ: Can I Travel To Hawaii With My Dog?
FAQ 1: What is the main reason for Hawaii’s strict animal quarantine laws?
The primary reason is to maintain Hawaii’s rabies-free status, protecting public health, the ecosystem, tourism, and local lifestyles.
FAQ 2: How much does the 5 Day Or Less quarantine program cost per pet?
The 5 Day Or Less quarantine program costs $244 per pet.
FAQ 3: What are the main requirements to qualify my dog for the 5 Day Or Less quarantine?
The requirements include at least two rabies vaccinations, microchipping, a successful OIE-FAVN blood test, and a 30-day pre-arrival waiting period.
FAQ 4: What happens if my pet arrives in Hawaii before completing the required waiting period?
Your pet will need to undergo the 120-day quarantine program and remain in quarantine until the required waiting period is met.
FAQ 5: How can I check if my pet passed the OIE-FAVN test?
You can check with your veterinarian or on the Hawaii Department of Agriculture’s website.
FAQ 6: Are there any exemptions to Hawaii’s animal quarantine laws?
Yes, guide dogs and service dogs, as well as pets from rabies-free areas like New Zealand and Australia, may be exempt.
FAQ 7: Can I visit my pet while it is in quarantine?
Yes, visiting hours are available on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays, but you must be a registered owner or designated co-owner.
FAQ 8: What are the kennel sizes at the Animal Quarantine Station?
Dog kennels range from 14 to 25 feet long depending on the dog’s size, and cat kennels are approximately 5 feet wide and 10 feet long.
FAQ 9: Can my pets be housed together during quarantine?
Generally, pets are housed separately, but you can request to house pets of the same species together if you provide complete care.
FAQ 10: What should I do if my pet has a medical condition that quarantine confinement would aggravate?
You can request that your pet be quarantined in an approved animal hospital.
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