Moving to the Big Island with Pets

Dreaming of moving to the Big Island and bringing your furry friends, such as your cat or dog? Hawaii’s pet import process is unique and can test your patience. However, with a little planning, you and your pet will soon be soaking up the Aloha vibes. Hawaii’s rabies-free status is one of its most precious assets, and the state takes rigorous precautions to maintain it. For pet parents, this means planning ahead—it’s about a 3-month process from start to finish. Don’t worry, we’ll walk you through it step by step.

Summary of Key Steps

• Vaccinate your pet for rabies and complete a blood titer test.
• Ensure your pet has a registered microchip.
• Apply for a permit with the Animal Quarantine Branch to arrive directly in Kona.
• Schedule an inspection with an approved veterinarian.
• Obtain a health certificate from your veterinarian, including tick treatment verification, shortly before your flight.

Step 1: Rabies Vaccines & Testing (Plan 3+ Months Ahead)

Your pet needs two rabies vaccinations administered at least 30 days apart, and the second one must be completed more than 30 days before arrival in Hawaii. After the vaccinations, your vet will perform an FAVN rabies antibody blood test to confirm that your pet is rabies-free. The test results must be sent to an approved lab and meet specific standards for entry. Test turnaround times can range from 4-8 weeks. 

Pro Tip: Make sure your vet is familiar with Hawaii’s Direct Release requirements to avoid any hiccups. The vaccine certificates must also be signed in ink!

Step 2: Microchip Your Pet

A microchip is essential for identification and is required as part of Hawaii’s pet entry process. Make sure it’s implanted before your pet’s FAVN test so the test results are linked to the chip. 

Step 3: Paperwork, Paperwork, Paperwork

Complete the necessary forms from the Hawaii Department of Agriculture’s Animal Quarantine Station (AQS). This includes the Dog and Cat Import Form and your pet’s rabies vaccination certificates. Be prepared to pay applicable fees, including the Direct Release fee, which is currently $165. 

Step 4: Prep for “Direct Release” at Kona International Airport

If you’re heading to the Big Island, aim for the “Direct Release” program at Kona International Airport. This allows your pet to bypass the quarantine process and be released directly to you upon arrival. To qualify, you’ll need to:

• Submit all forms at least 30 days before arrival.
• Arrange a pre-departure veterinary health screening within 10 days of your flight. There are three approved providers:
  • Alii Veterinary Hospital
  • Keauhou Veterinary Hospital
  • Direct Airport Release Kona
• Ensure your pet arrives at Kona during inspection hours.

Resource Alert: Check out Kona Pets’ How It Works and the HDOA’s Animal Quarantine Page for detailed instructions.

Step 5: Pre-Departure 

• Health Certificate Requirements: Schedule a health certificate exam with your mainland veterinarian 7–10 days before your flight. Hawaii’s official rule allows up to 14 days, but most airlines require it within 10 days. A 7-day window is recommended to account for unexpected travel delays.
• Tick Preventative Treatment: Your veterinarian must administer an approved tick preventative during the health exam and note it on the health certificate. A complete list of approved tick treatments can be found here.
• Neighborhood Island Inspection Permit: The Animal Quarantine Branch (AQB) will email your Neighbor Island Inspection Permit from HDOA.AQS_do_not_reply@hawaii.gov. Add this email address to your safe sender list. Your permit includes a 5-day grace period for travel changes. Confirm your inspector’s availability before adjusting flights.
• Travel Documentation: Keep the inspection permit and health certificate (with tick treatment verification) with your pet at all times during travel.

Step 6: Travel Day Tips

Flying with pets can be stressful, but a little preparation goes a long way:

• Book a pet-friendly airline and confirm space availability in the cabin or cargo hold.
• Use an airline-approved carrier that’s cozy yet secure.
• Include comfort items like a familiar blanket or toy.
• Keep all documents handy for airport inspections.