Military pet ownership involves more than emotional attachment—it carries significant financial implications. For military families navigating a lifestyle defined by frequent relocations and uncertainty, pets often serve as an emotional anchor. But behind the emotional support lies a series of hidden expenses that should be carefully considered as part of a sound financial strategy.
The Financial Realities of Owning Pets in the Military
Pets such as dogs and cats are considered part of the family by many. However, for military families with frequent Permanent Change of Station (PCS) orders, pet ownership is not just an emotional decision—it’s a financial one that can affect your household budget in substantial ways.
Some of the typical relocation expenses for pets include:
- Boarding fees during transitions
- Pet-friendly accommodations while in temporary lodging
- Airfare or pet cargo transport costs
- Health certificates, microchipping, and quarantine fees (especially for overseas moves)
- Licensing and registration fees at the new duty station
Even for domestic moves, costs can easily run into the hundreds or thousands of dollars, while overseas relocations often exceed $5,000, depending on airline policies, pet size, and location.
DoD’s New Policy: Easing the Burden of Pet Relocation
As of January 1, 2024, the Department of Defense (DoD) has introduced a pet relocation reimbursement policy designed to support service members during PCS moves. This initiative is part of the department’s broader commitment to enhancing military family well-being.
New Reimbursement Guidelines:
| Relocation Type | Maximum Reimbursement |
|---|---|
| Domestic (Stateside) | $550 for one dog or cat |
| Overseas (OCONUS) | $2,000 for one dog or cat |
Eligible expenses include:
- Quarantine fees
- Required microchipping
- Boarding during travel
- Pet-related hotel fees
- Air shipping costs (if no government transport is available)
- Licensing fees at the new location
Important: All reimbursement claims must be supported with receipts, and, if applicable, a non-availability letter for DoD-provided transport (such as Patriot Express). In dual-military families, if each spouse has separate PCS orders, they can each claim one pet.
Financial Planning Strategies for Military Pet Owners
As a financial professional, I recommend military families take the following proactive steps:
- Establish a dedicated pet budget that includes routine needs such as food, grooming, and veterinary visits, as well as emergency care.
- Account for PCS-related pet expenses in your broader financial plan.
- Consider pet insurance for potential high-cost emergencies, while understanding its limitations (e.g., exclusions for pre-existing conditions).
- Utilize on-base veterinary clinics where available—they typically offer significantly lower rates than off-base options.
- Prepare for aging pet costs: Senior pets often require medications and specialized diets, which can exceed $1,000 per month.
Emotional and Economic Value of Pets in MilLife
Pets are more than companions—they often provide emotional resilience during deployments, relocations, and separations. For children, pets offer familiarity and comfort amid constant transitions. For spouses at home, they provide emotional support and routine when the household dynamic shifts due to deployment.
Our family’s Labrador, Bradford, was with us through multiple assignments, cross-country relocations, school transitions, and deployments. He stood by us during moments of grief and joy. Although the financial costs over his 16-year life were considerable, the non-financial return was priceless.
Now, as my own children serve in the military and raise families of their own, their dogs—Jethro and Milo—offer the same comfort to a new generation. They lick away tears during deployments and are the silent listeners to scraped knees and toddler tantrums. That kind of love transcends dollars and cents.
Professional Recommendation: Plan Proactively
If you’re a military family considering pet ownership, I strongly advise developing a comprehensive pet financial plan. Don’t make assumptions—seek expert guidance. Consult with:
- A Personal Financial Counselor at your installation
- A Certified Financial Planner (CFP)
- Trusted support agencies like Army Emergency Relief, Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society, and Air Force Aid Society
Military pet ownership can be incredibly rewarding—emotionally and developmentally—for families. With proper financial planning, the cost becomes manageable and the benefits far outweigh the burden.
Military pet ownership is a journey filled with loyalty, emotional connection, and financial responsibility. Thanks to the DoD’s new policy providing financial relief for pet relocation, families now have additional support in maintaining continuity and care for their pets during military moves.
Still, the best results come from intentional and informed financial planning. If you’re unsure how a pet fits into your budget, book an appointment with a trusted financial expert. Your pets are family—let your budget reflect that.
Judy McCauley 
Mae Sisco 
Randall Brown