PCS Pet Cost Assistance: Helping Military Families Relocate Pets
Serving in the military often means frequent moves, including overseas assignments. For families with pets, these Permanent Change of Station (PCS) moves can bring significant challenges — both logistical and financial. Fortunately, organizations like SPCA International provide grants to help offset the high cost of transporting pets during PCS moves.
The Challenge of PCS Moves with Pets
When military families receive PCS orders, pets are often included in the journey. However, the U.S. government does not cover pet transportation costs, meaning families must pay out of pocket. This can include:
- Airline cargo fees or excess baggage charges
- Custom-built travel crates meeting airline and international standards
- Veterinary health certificates and required vaccinations
- Documentation fees and customs clearances
These expenses can easily add up to thousands of dollars, particularly when moving to popular duty stations such as Japan, Germany, or Korea.
SPCA International Grant Program
To support military families, SPCA International created the Operation Military Pets Grant Program. This initiative provides financial assistance to active-duty service members who are relocating and need help covering pet transport expenses.
The program recognizes that pets are family members, and no one should have to face the heartbreaking decision of leaving them behind due to financial constraints. Grants vary depending on need and available funding, but they often cover a significant portion of relocation costs.
You can read more about this initiative in detail here: SPCA International PCS Pet Cost Grants.
How to Apply for PCS Pet Assistance
The process to apply for an SPCA International grant is straightforward, but it’s important to plan ahead. Here are the steps:
- Gather Documentation – Service members must provide PCS orders, proof of pet ownership, and cost estimates for transportation.
- Submit an Application – Applications are submitted online via SPCA International’s website.
- Wait for Review – Applications are reviewed, and families are notified about funding decisions.
- Receive Assistance – Approved applicants are reimbursed for eligible costs directly by SPCA International.
Because funding is limited, not every application is approved. However, applying early and providing complete documentation increases your chances.
Keeping Families and Pets Together
PCS moves can be stressful for both people and pets. Programs like Operation Military Pets give families peace of mind, knowing that financial support is available to help their pets travel safely. This not only reduces the burden on service members but also ensures that beloved pets remain an important part of family life, no matter where duty calls.
At Across The Pond Pets, we work closely with military families to make these transitions as smooth as possible. From crate preparation to coordinating international flights, our team understands the unique needs of military PCS relocations.
Resources for PCS Pet Relocation
In addition to SPCA International grants, military families have access to various resources that can ease the military pet relocation process. Here are some helpful options:
- Military OneSource – Provides support services for active-duty families, including moving guidance.
- PCS to Japan with Pets – Country-specific requirements and assistance for moving pets to Japan.
- PCS to Germany with Pets – Detailed information about Germany’s pet import process.
- PCS to Korea with Pets – Guidance for transporting pets to Korea.
