The Hawaii Department of Agriculture has introduced an online portal for dog and cat owners to submit rabies quarantine applications. The new system, called the Hawai‘i Pet Owner Portal (HIPOP), allows pet owners to create accounts, upload required documents, and pay fees for importing dogs and cats into the state.
According to the department, “This portal is designed to allow owners to submit an entry application for their dog and cat online.”
Pet owners entering Hawaii with a dog or cat for the first time are instructed to create a new account on the portal. Those who have previously submitted applications may already have an account linked to their email address. The system enables users to create animal import applications, complete profiles, upload supporting documents such as rabies vaccination certificates and health certificates, and pay fees using Visa or Mastercard.
To avoid quarantine upon arrival in Hawaii, pet owners must provide proof of two rabies vaccinations within the required timeframe and a passing FAVN test for each animal. All uploaded information will be reviewed by Animal Quarantine staff before approval.
For pets arriving at Kona (Hawaii Island), Kahului (Maui), or Līhu‘e (Kaua‘i) airports, owners must also complete a Neighbor Island Import Permit application. This process requires confirmation from a contracted veterinarian on those islands who will inspect the animals upon arrival.
The department states that hard copy mailed-in applications will continue to be accepted alongside online submissions. Detailed checklists outlining entry requirements are available on the department’s website.
The Hawaii Department of Agriculture employs 279 staff members across the state (official website). The agency provides services such as animal quarantine support and pesticide regulation (official website). Its responsibilities include advancing agriculture and aquaculture industries while preventing harmful plants and diseases from entering Hawaii (official website). The department operates statewide under the slogan “Growing Hawaii’s Future” (official website).
For more information about animal entry requirements or related services, visit the Animal Industry Division’s Animal Quarantine Information Page on the department’s website.
