Temporary Shelters, Foster Programs & Pet Lodging for Military Moves

Patrick MacFarland Patrick MacFarland · Updated July 1, 2024

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Two dogs, one white with brown patches and one black with brown markings, stand in a wooden kennel behind a wire fence. Both look to the left with their mouths slightly open, embodying the tranquility of pet lodging for military moves.

When you receive PCS orders, your life is uprooted and often you have to move to another state. When you’re in the process of finding a new home, you may have trouble finding pet-friendly housing quickly. In those cases, your best option might be to find a temporary home for your furry friend. Let’s take a look at the temporary shelters, foster programs or other pet lodging options for military moves.

Where to Find Temporary Shelters for Your Military Pet

When it comes to temporary pet shelters, there are several options. It’s also a smart idea to reach out to military-specific organizations that offer assistance. Organizations like PACT for Animals or Dogs on Deployment can offer temporary housing for military pets or can help you find temporary housing for your pets.

Military Base Kennels

You may be in luck if the base you’re being to which you’re being transferred offers boarding facilities for your pet. The only downside to this option is that availability is limited. There could also be breed restrictions and it’s likely your pet will be living with other animals.

Pet Boarding Facilities

Another option is looking for pet boarding facilities. Sometimes you may find commercial kennels or boarding facilities that can provide the professional care that pets need. The benefits of these facilities is that they provide structured routines to make things easier for pets.

A military officer holds a happy dog, ready for military pet transport, with an American flag patch visible on the officer's uniform.

Other Pet Lodging Options for Military Moves

Another option is to ask your friends and family. This could be the last resort if you can’t find anything professional or within your area and price range. Friends and family are a great resource when it comes to stressful situations in life.

What to Do If You Need to Rehome Your Pet

Unfortunately, sometimes the only option available is to rehome your pet. While it can be a heartbreaking decision, it can be the best choice for your pets. If you need to rehome your pet, there are a few things to do to minimize your pet’s stress. Taking a few measures before you make the move can make the process much smoother for you and your pet.

  1. Pack familiar items
  2. Introduce your pet to the home beforehand
  3. Provide detailed instructions
  4. Stay in touch frequently

Don’t Let Transportation Costs Force You To Rehome Your Pet

The Department of Defense released new policies regulating pet relocation reimbursement. You can get reimbursed up to $550 for one household pet, either cat or dog, and up to $2,000 for moves to or from a location outside the continental United States to cover costs related to the transportation of a pet.

CitizenShipper makes it easy for you. Apart from being the safest and most humane option for your pet, we also make sure that you find all documents you need for reimbursement easily. Just click on the link to find the form.