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How to Navigate Hawaii’s Pet Quarantine Process: Part 1

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In this first of two posts on the pet quarantine process, we examine the basic guidelines. In the second, we’ll detail the fastest way for your pet to get through.

Fact: Hawaii is rabies-free.  Another fact:  To remain so, Hawaii requires that all carnivorous pets, including dogs and cats, be quarantined. This is neither an easy nor a cheap process, but it is one necessary to maintaining the health of Hawaii’s delicate ecosystem.

So what to do? The first thing: don’t panic.  You’re hardly alone. This is a process that many people have successfully completed, which means that you can do it, too.

But you don’t need a pep talk, right? You need guidance.

Here are some important points to remember, as culled from the State of Hawaii’s animal quarantine FAQs page:

1)   There other three quarantine programs: 120 days ($1,080 per pet), 5 or fewer days ($224 per pet), and direct release ($165 per pet). Each has its own requirements, so be sure to determine which your pet qualifies for.

2)   If you’re only passing through Hawaii for a day or two, you must still quarantine your pet. The cost is a one-time fee of $45 per pet, plus $14.30 for food and kenneling per day, per pet.

3)   If you’re staying for less than a day, you must make arrangements in advance with the Animal Port by calling (808) 833-2049 or (808) 946-2187 ext. 2.

4)   There are some quarantine exemptions for seeing-eye dogs and other dogs for the disabled, as well as dogs and cats from New Zealand, Australia, Guam and the British Isles. If you’re an active-duty member, the U.S. Defense Department may provide a reimbursement.

Remember: This is only a guideline, and it’s important that you conduct your own research. You may also want to consider hiring a pet relocation service. For a fee, these services will help you navigate the quarantine process. But again, be sure to research the service.

Here are the locations of the quarantine stations:

Main Animal Quarantine Station

Halawa Valley

99-951 Halawa Valley Street.

Phone: (808) 483-7151

 

Kauai: Kauai Humane Society

P.O. Box 3330

Lihue, HI 96766

Phone: (808) 632-0610

 

Big Island: Bar-King Dog Kennel

P.O. Box 1184

Keaau, HI 96749

Phone: (808) 966-8733