A Complete Guide to Flying Your Large Dog to Hawaii
If you’re planning a dream vacation to the tropical paradise of Hawaii but want to bring along your furry family member, you may be wondering – is it possible to fly a large dog to the islands? The good news is, with some advance preparation and following the proper guidelines, you can absolutely take Fido along for the trip of a lifetime. In this guide, I’ll cover all the steps to make sure your pooch’s journey goes smoothly.
Book Direct Flights Only
When booking your airline tickets, choose nonstop direct flights rather than connecting flights. This minimizes potential delays and risks of your dog’s crate being lost in transit. Some airlines like Hawaiian and United allow pets in the cabin on direct Hawaii routes for a fee, which is preferable to cargo hold transport. Check airline policies and size/weight limits well before booking.
Obtain Required Documents
No matter which airline you fly, you’ll need these documents for your dog:
- Vet health certificate issued within 10 days of travel stating vaccinations are current and the dog has been examined and cleared for travel
- Certificate of veterinary inspection from your state showing rabies vaccine details
- Hawaii state import form completed and signed by your vet listing vaccination dates
Allow extra time to get the vet paperwork processed. Some airlines may also require microchipping or additional health tests depending on your dog’s destination island in Hawaii.
Book Cargo Space Early
Large and extra-large dogs usually must travel in the aircraft cargo hold, not the cabin. Cargo space books up fast, so reserve it as early as possible – at least a month in advance for most flights. The crate size needs to allow your dog to both stand up and turn around. Consider renting a crate if your own is too small.
Prepare Your Pup Mentally and Physically
Get your dog accustomed to being in a crate through positive reinforcement training at home before the big trip. Also do test runs to the vet to get them relaxed about car and people interactions. Consider calming supplements or a light sedative from the vet to reduce stress during travel if needed. Ensure your pup is freshly groomed, nails trimmed, and hasn’t eaten for several hours before drop-off at the airport.
Pack Supplies Carefully
Use an IATA-approved soft-sided crate with proper ventilation, padding, and water bottle holder. Pack in separate bags:
- At least 3 days’ worth of food, snacks, and bottles of water
- Any medication clearly labeled with directions
- Their favorite toy or blanket for comfort
- Pee pads in case of delays
- Copies of documents and your contact info attached outside
Clearly label everything with your contact details including phone number. Leave room in the crate for your pooch to stand and turn around.
Drop Off at Airport on Time
Many airlines require checking pets in at least 2-3 hours before your scheduled departure time. With multiple legs of a Hawaii journey, even a slight delay could make your dog miss a connection. Account for worst-case traffic scenarios when dropping them off. Stay in touch via the airline pet hotline in case of flight changes too.
Arrange Ground Transport and Boarding
Coordinate pickup at the arrival airport and boarding while you’re in Hawaii well ahead. Popular island resorts book up, so touch base 2-3 months out. Some offer pet-friendly properties, daycare or boarding facilities right on property. Kennels and house sitters are other options if your hotel doesn’t allow pets. Setup vet care in Hawaii in case of emergencies too.
Prepare Physically and Mentally For Reunion
After what will likely be 10+ hours of travel for your pup, they will be exhausted. Have a comfy bed, fresh water, and a light meal ready upon collecting them. Go at your dog’s pace for playtime and resume their normal routine gradually. Pay extra attention in those first few days to relieve any residual stress. Your loving support will make the whole adventure worthwhile and build even stronger bonds through quality Hawaiian time together!
Flying a large dog to Hawaii takes advance planning but is absolutely possible if you follow the necessary steps above. From my own experiences bringing dogs on planes, having all the proper paperwork lined up, adequate crate/flight prep and backup options in place is key to a smooth journey. With some extra TLC, your furry friend can enjoy the islands as much as yourself. Aloha and safe travels to you both!
Let me know if any part of the process remains unclear, I’m happy to provide clarification or advice based on my knowledge. Safe and successful pet air travel requires thorough preparation but leads to amazing family memories together in paradise. I hope these tips help give you both smooth sailing to Hawaii!
Details for Flying Your Large Dog to Hawaii
| Airline | Delta |
| Weight Limit | 70 lbs |
| Crate Size | Hard-sided, at least 17″ x 24″ |
| Health Certificate | Required within 10 days of travel |
| Vaccinations | Rabies, DHLPP, Bordetella |
| Medication | Prescription meds required, in original container |
| Food and Water | Not more than 3-1 cup each, removed from checked baggage |
| Travel Crate | Labeled “Live Animal” and attached identification tag |
| Cost | $150 each way |
FAQ
-
How big can my dog be to fly to Hawaii?
Most airlines have a size and weight limit for pets traveling in the cabin. Dogs over 20 pounds typically need to fly as cargo. So a large breed dog may be too big to bring on the plane with you. You’d have to check them like luggage.
-
Do I need any documents to bring my dog to Hawaii?
Absolutely. You’ll need your dog’s health records showing they are current on vaccinations. Hawaii also requires a rabies vaccine certificate and possibly a health certificate from a vet within 10 days of arrival. It’s best to check Hawaii’s specific pet import rules to be sure you have the necessary paperwork in order.
-
Is it stressful for a big dog to fly as cargo?
Potentially, yes. Flying in the cargo hold is often less than ideal for dogs due to noise, temperature fluctuations, and less oxygen. However, some pups adapt fine. You can ask your vet for medication to reduce stress if needed. At the same time, being in the cabin is prohibited for many large breeds. So it’s somewhat of a tradeoff.
-
How much does it cost to fly a big dog to Hawaii?
The cost can vary greatly depending on the airline and size of your dog. But plan on a cargo fee of a few hundred dollars or more. You’ll also need to purchase a hard-sided kennel that meets airline standards. Basically, flying a large pup isn’t cheap. Yet some folks say their happy dog is worth the fairly hefty price.
-
Is there an easier way than flying to get my huge hound to Hawaii?
You bet. Another option is to transport your dog by boat. It takes much longer – over a week. However, it may be less stressful for Jumbo the Great Dane compared to flying. You’d have to arrange commercial pet transport or consider taking your pup on a cruise. But either way, boarding them for that length of time gets real pricey.
-
What paperwork do I need to bring my dog back home on the plane?
Coming home, you’ll need all the same documents proving vaccinations and a rabies cert. You may also be required to get a health certificate from a Hawaii vet within 10 days of departure. Despite missing their furry friend, some owners just cannot face going through the hassle of flying a large dog again after vacation! But is leaving them in doggy paradise an option either?
-
Is it safe to leave a big dog in Hawaii while I return home?
This might seem like an easy solution rather than dealing with the return flight. However, leaving your pooch solo in an unfamiliar place is likely not fair to them. They would be in a shelter awaiting your (possible never-materializing) return. Perhaps a friend could petsit them instead, or check on their welfare periodically. On the other paw, the dog may relax in the warm weather. But is abandoning them the righteous thing to do?