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I am going to Hawaii on vacation and want to bring my little shih tzu with me. Is this possible? Help!!!?


I've read something about having to have your pet quarantined but I don't quite understand. There are so many pet friendly hotels and the airlines allow pet travel so what's the deal? Please help. THANKS!!!

Bringing your pet to Hawaii on vacation will be VERY hard to do because Hawaii has very strict quarantine laws due to the fact that Hawaii has no rabies.

If you really want to bring along your dog, you'll have to get your dog pre-screened for rabies including shots and clearance tests BEFORE you get here or else you will risk a 180 day quarantine which will begin as soon as your pet lands here in Hawaii (they go straight from the airport cargo to quarantine if they are not pre-cleared). These requirements involve a series of 2 rabies vaccinations more than 90 days apart, the insertion of a microchip, and a blood test for rabies that in complete no less than 120 days in advance. Even if you follow all of these steps, your pet may still be required to spend up to 5 days in quarantine when you get here.

Check this website for more information:

http://hawaii.gov/hdoa/ai/aqs/info

Unless you are spending a ton of time in Hawaii, I would suggest you leave your pup at home and enjoy your time in Hawaii sans your dog.

Hope that helps you….good luck and happy travels!

9 Responses to “I am going to Hawaii on vacation and want to bring my little shih tzu with me. Is this possible? Help!!!?”

  1. bobthepenguinking Says:

    You'll have to talk to your airline and hotel to find out, I'm afraid. There ARE ways, but it depends on your accomodations.
    References :

  2. Lexx F Says:

    I've been to Hawaii myself and wanted to bring my dog. You can take your dog but your dog will have to go through many things. It will be in quarantine and once you leave the island they have to take all these blood samples and many exams to make sure your dog is not carrying a disease into the united states. It is possible but it is a real hassle to go through that.Hope i helped!
    References :

  3. Robert F Says:

    My step brother moved to Hawaii and said they had to quarantine their dogs 6 weeks and several blood tests , they even go see the dogs for several days after arrival, he said it is best not to bring pets
    References :

  4. Momma D Says:

    Hawaii is a rabies free state. And because they are serious about keeping it that way, pets are subject to being quarantined for as few as 5 days and as long as 120 days. The length of stay depends on you and your vet. You must have your documentation in order and there's a lot of it. For example; your dog has to have had documentation of rabies shot not longer then 18 months ago, (if it's a 36 month shot) less if the 12 month serum was used. The dog has to be micro chipped, has to have the necessary blood work and more. You also want to keep in mind that you are responsible for paying the kennel fees which range from approximately $400.00 and up, depending on length of stay. And the airlines will charge you to fly the dog to and from your destination. Honestly, I'd encourage you check the links because it's a lot of information and very costly. It might be better to leave your pooch at home.
    References :
    http://hawaii.gov/hdoa/ai/aqs/info
    http://www.petsonthego.com/imphawaii.html

  5. soccerref Says:

    Bringing your pet to Hawaii on vacation will be VERY hard to do because Hawaii has very strict quarantine laws due to the fact that Hawaii has no rabies.

    If you really want to bring along your dog, you'll have to get your dog pre-screened for rabies including shots and clearance tests BEFORE you get here or else you will risk a 180 day quarantine which will begin as soon as your pet lands here in Hawaii (they go straight from the airport cargo to quarantine if they are not pre-cleared). These requirements involve a series of 2 rabies vaccinations more than 90 days apart, the insertion of a microchip, and a blood test for rabies that in complete no less than 120 days in advance. Even if you follow all of these steps, your pet may still be required to spend up to 5 days in quarantine when you get here.

    Check this website for more information:

    http://hawaii.gov/hdoa/ai/aqs/info

    Unless you are spending a ton of time in Hawaii, I would suggest you leave your pup at home and enjoy your time in Hawaii sans your dog.

    Hope that helps you….good luck and happy travels!
    References :
    self – lifelong Hawaii resident

  6. RGTIII Says:

    Hawaii will not let you bring you pet into the state without a 6 month quarantine. Leave the dog at home.
    References :
    http://hawaii.gov/hdoa/ai/aqs/info

  7. shakaBRAH Says:

    leave the mutt with gramps and go hawaii
    References :

  8. grannysue Says:

    I agree with many others on here that the dog would have to be quarantined and leaving it home would be the best.
    My reasons are:
    1. How stressful will it be for the dog to go through all the testing, the flying, the quarantine in a strange place without you present?
    2. What will you be able to do with your dog along?
    3. Will you be relaxing and enjoying yourself while the dog is quarantined or will you be worrying about it and feeling guilty?

    Really, it is stressful enough just flying yourself over there and getting your accommodations. The added expense of getting all the tests, the extra airfare, the food and special hotel could better be spent on a good kennel near your home or on something fun for you to do while in HI. After recently returning from there, it is very expensive, you will need over $100/day for yourself if you are not at an all inclusive.

    Go enjoy yourself, but leave Fido at home.
    References :
    been there within the month

  9. Hawaii Home Says:

    There are pet friendly hotels and apartments as well on vrbo.com and Craigslist.

    The 5 day or less program costs a few dollars on your side, but your pet can get off the plane with you.

    You will need time to qualify though.
    References :
    http://www.hawaiihome.biz/?tag=hawaii-dog-quarantine

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