Why does Hawaii have a quarantine for dogs, cats, and carnivores?
Hawaii is rabies-free, and quarantine helps maintain that status. Introducing rabies could harm public health, disrupt the ecosystem, and impact tourism and local life. The quarantine law ensures that rabies doesn’t enter the state and is entirely funded by its users, without taxpayer support.
How much does it cost to quarantine my pet?
- 120-day quarantine: $1,080 per pet.
- 5-Day-or-Less program: $244 per pet.
- Direct release: $185 per pet. Active-duty military members may qualify for partial reimbursement. Rates are subject to change.
How do I qualify my dog or cat for the 5 Day or Less program?
- Two rabies vaccinations, spaced 30 days apart.
- Microchip for identification.
- Successful rabies antibody blood test (OIE-FAVN).
- Completion of a 30-day waiting period after the blood sample is received.
What if my pet arrives before the required waiting period is over?
If your pet arrives early, it won’t qualify for the shorter quarantine program and will remain quarantined for up to 120 days, costing $14.30 per day plus a $244 fee.
How will I know if my pet passed the OIE-FAVN test?
Test results are sent to the quarantine station and your vet. Your vet usually receives them first, and you can check updates on the department’s website.
Are there any exemptions to the quarantine?
Guide dogs, service animals, and pets from rabies-free areas like New Zealand, Australia, Guam, and the British Isles may qualify for exemptions after meeting specific requirements.
What happens when my pet arrives in Honolulu?
Pets are inspected at the Airport Animal Quarantine Holding Facility. Depending on arrival time, they may be transferred to the main quarantine station the same day or the following morning.
Can I visit my pet after it arrives at the airport?
Brief visits are allowed at the airport quarantine facility. You can also call for updates.
What do I do if I’m transiting through Hawaii with my pet?
Pets in transit must stay at the quarantine facility, costing $45 plus $14.30 per day for care. Ensure the facility knows your departure details 72 hours in advance.
Can my pet fly with me in the passenger cabin?
Airlines decide if pets can fly in the cabin. However, quarantined pets traveling between facilities or islands must follow state guidelines.
Can I send my pet to Hawaii before I arrive?
Yes, you can. Ensure the carrier has your contact information, and submit the Dog and Cat Import Form (AQS-279) beforehand.
Can I designate someone to check on my pet if I’m not in Hawaii?
You can list a co-owner on the import form or provide a notarized authorization letter with the person's ID details.
Where is the Animal Quarantine Station located?
The station is at 99-951 Halawa Valley Street, Halawa Valley, Oahu.
When can I visit my pet in quarantine?
Visiting hours are Tuesdays, Thursdays, 1:00–4:30 p.m.; Wednesdays, 1:00–5:30 p.m.; and weekends, 12:00–3:30 p.m. Closed on state holidays.
Can anyone visit my pet in quarantine?
Only registered owners or authorized individuals can visit, with a photo ID and an AQS-issued visitor pass.
How large are the kennels?
Dog kennels range from 14 to 25 feet long, and cat kennels are about 5x10 feet. Both include sheltered areas.
Can my pets be housed together?
Pets of the same species may share a kennel if the owner commits to full daily care.
Can my pets be together during visits?
Approved owners can request joint visitation for pets of the same species after attending a program orientation.
What’s required for the 120-day quarantine?
Pets need health certificates, current vaccinations, and tick treatments before arrival.
Can my pet be quarantined on Kauai, Maui, or the Big Island?
Kauai has a satellite facility. Approved veterinary hospitals on other islands may also provide quarantine services.
What if my pet has a medical condition?
Pets with medical needs may complete quarantine in approved animal hospitals.
What are the requirements for pets arriving from foreign countries?
Only pets from rabies-free areas like New Zealand and Australia may qualify for exemptions. Others must follow standard quarantine protocols.
What should I do if I’m leaving Hawaii with my pet temporarily?
Follow the 5-Day-or-Less program requirements for resident pets, including a rabies test and documentation of departure.
What are the requirements for pets transiting through Hawaii to a foreign country?
Work with a private vet to meet the destination country's requirements and coordinate with USDA-APHIS for necessary endorsements.
