Starting January 1, 2024, the Department of Defense (DoD) has introduced a new policy to help alleviate the financial burden on military families when relocating with pets during a Permanent Change of Station (PCS). This policy allows for reimbursement of certain pet travel expenses, recognizing the important role pets play in military households. Here’s a detailed guide to help you understand the new pet travel reimbursement policy.
What is the Pet Travel Reimbursement Entitlement?
Service members on PCS orders are eligible for reimbursement of pet travel expenses. The reimbursement covers one household pet, defined as a cat or dog, per PCS order. The maximum reimbursement amounts are:
- $550 for moves within the continental United States (CONUS)
- $2,000 for moves to or from locations outside the continental United States (OCONUS).
For more details, visit the Defense Travel Management Office.
Reimbursable Expenses
Reimbursable expenses include:
- Mandatory microchipping
- Boarding fees
- Hotel service charges
- Licensing fees at the new permanent duty station
- Pet shipping fees if the service member flies rather than drives, or if the pet is shipped separately from the member
- Quarantine fees and testing vaccine titer levels for OCONUS moves.
Documentation Requirements
To claim reimbursement, service members must provide:
- Itemized receipts for all costs, including those under $75
- Receipts should indicate they are for one pet and include the pet’s name if possible
- If the pet is flying cargo due to weight limits, the receipt must include the pet’s weight
- A non-availability letter if government transportation is not available, along with all documentation used to obtain this letter.
How to Claim Reimbursement
Service members must:
- Be on PCS orders, with all travel and expenses occurring on or after January 1, 2024
- Submit a travel voucher (DD Form 1351-2) along with the required documentation
- Contact their local finance office for assistance with the reimbursement process.
Special Considerations
- Dual-Military Couples: If both members are on separate PCS orders, each can claim reimbursement for one pet, allowing for a total of two pets to be covered.
- Government Transportation: For OCONUS moves, service members must use government or government-procured transportation if available. If not available, a non-availability letter is required to claim reimbursement for commercial travel.
- Multiple Pets: The reimbursement is limited to one pet per PCS order. Service members can choose which pet’s expenses to claim if they have multiple pets.
Why Choose Transcon Pet Movers?
At Transcon Pet Movers, we understand the complexities and emotional stress involved in relocating with pets, especially to international destinations. Our team is particularly experienced in shipping pets to Asian destinations such as Japan, South Korea, Australia, Taiwan, and the Philippines. We offer comprehensive services that include:
- Flight booking and coordination with airlines
- Completion of all necessary veterinary certificates and obtaining USDA endorsements
- Handling quarantine arrangements and ensuring compliance with import regulations
- Providing airline-approved travel crates and tips for crate training your pet
Our meticulous attention to detail and commitment to the well-being of your pets ensure a smooth and stress-free relocation process. Trust Transcon Pet Movers to handle your pet’s journey with the utmost care and professionalism. For more detailed information and assistance, service members can visit the Defense Travel Management Office or contact their local finance office. This new policy is a significant step in reducing the financial burden on military families during PCS moves, ensuring that pets can accompany their families without causing undue financial stress.