Want a pet but worried about frequent moves and deployments? You’re not alone. A pet can bring real comfort, routine, and joy—especially when military life feels unstable. The trick is planning so the pet fits your lifestyle, not the other way around.
Ask these questions first: Does your housing allow pets? Are there breed or size limits? Who will care for the pet during a PCS or deployment? Do you have the time and money for vet care, food, training, and emergency bills? Check base housing rules and your lease for any pet clauses. If you plan to move overseas, look up host-nation rules and quarantine requirements early—some countries need months of prep.
Visit shelters and rescues. Meet the animal more than once and watch how it reacts to children, strangers, and noise. Ask for vet records, behavior history, and whether a trial foster is possible. A short foster lets you see how the pet handles real life before committing.
Within the first week, schedule a vet check. Update vaccinations, get a microchip if there isn’t one, and attach a secure ID tag with your phone number. Ask the vet about spay/neuter if it hasn’t been done and get a written care plan for parasites and vaccines. Keep all medical records handy—you’ll need them for boarding, moving, and overseas travel paperwork.
Start simple training right away. Basic commands, crate training, and leash manners pay off fast. If the pet shows anxiety around travel or loud noises, work with a trainer or behaviorist early. Small, consistent sessions beat long, stressful ones.
Budget for ongoing costs: food, routine vet visits, grooming, replacement of worn beds or toys, and an emergency fund. Many families set aside a small monthly amount so a surprise vet bill doesn’t become a crisis.
Plan for deployment and PCS now, not later. Line up at least two care options: a family member or friend who knows your pet, and a paid option (trusted sitter, boarding, or long-term foster). Write a clear care plan with feeding schedules, vet contacts, medical needs, and behavior notes. Leave copies with both the sitter and your command if required.
Know who to ask for help. TRICARE does not cover pet health—so look to base veterinary clinics, local vets, and military spouse networks for guidance. Military OneSource and your installation’s family support services often have lists of recommended sitters, boarding facilities, and moving tips for pets.
Adopting while serving is doable when you plan. Pick the right pet for your home, prepare for moves and deployments, and build a simple care plan now. Your pet will thank you—and so will your family when life gets hectic.
Embracing a furry friend into your life goes beyond mere companionship, it's a gateway to improved physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Through the journey of adopting a pet, individuals experience a multitude of health benefits ranging from reduced stress levels to enhanced physical activity and a deeper sense of connection. This article sheds light on the profound impact pets have on our lives, supported by compelling research and personal anecdotes, making a strong case for the symbiotic relationship between humans and their animal companions.
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