A Complete Guide to Pet Transport to and from Hawaii

Transporting pets to and from Hawaii can be a complex process due to the state’s strict quarantine laws aimed at maintaining its rabies-free status. This comprehensive guide, brought to you by Pawpaws Express, will help you navigate the requirements and ensure a smooth journey for your furry friend.

Understanding Hawaii’s Quarantine Regulations

Hawaii’s animal quarantine laws are designed to protect the islands from rabies. To ensure compliance, pet owners must be aware of the following pre-arrival requirements:

1. Microchipping: All pets must have a microchip for identification.
2. Rabies Vaccination: Pets must have at least two rabies vaccinations, with the most recent one given at least 30 days before arrival.
3. OIE-FAVN Rabies Blood Test: A blood test to measure rabies antibodies must be conducted at least 30 days after the last rabies vaccination and no more than 36 months before arrival in Hawaii.
4. Waiting Period: A mandatory 30-day waiting period is required after the successful blood test before entry into Hawaii.

Quarantine Programs:

1. Direct Airport Release (DAR): Pets meeting all pre-arrival requirements may qualify for immediate release upon arrival at Honolulu International Airport.
2. 5-Day-or-Less Program: This program allows for a reduced quarantine period for pets that meet certain criteria.
3. 120-Day Quarantine: Pets that do not meet the criteria for DAR or the 5-Day-or-Less Program will undergo a 120-day quarantine.

Choosing the Right Pet Shipping Service

Selecting a reliable pet transport service is crucial for a stress-free journey. Pawpaws Express is a trusted name in pet shipping, offering services tailored to meet Hawaii’s stringent regulations. Here’s why you should choose us:

1. Regulatory Expertise: We have extensive knowledge of Hawaii’s quarantine laws and can guide you through the process to ensure your pet meets all requirements.
2. Safety and Comfort: At Pawpaws Express, we prioritize your pet’s well-being, using only USDA-approved carriers and ensuring a comfortable travel experience.
3. Health Certificate Assistance: We provide assistance with obtaining international pet travel health certificates and can help you find a USDA-certified vet if needed.

Preparing Your Pet for Travel

To ensure a smooth journey, consider the following:

1. Veterinary Check-up: Schedule a visit to the vet to ensure your pet is healthy and to obtain the necessary health certificates.
2. Crate Training: Acclimatize your pet to the travel crate to minimize stress during transit.
3. Feeding and Hydration: Follow the feeding and hydration guidelines provided by Pawpaws Express to keep your pet comfortable during the journey.

Conclusion

Shipping pets to and from Hawaii requires careful planning and adherence to the state’s quarantine laws. By understanding the regulations, choosing a reputable pet transport service like Pawpaws Express, and preparing your pet properly, you can ensure a safe and comfortable trip for your furry companion. For more information or to book our services, visit pawpawsexpress.com. Let us help make your pet’s journey to paradise a seamless experience.