![Guide to Traveling to Guam with Your Dog | Entry and Return Procedures and What to Do There [2026 Edition]](https://petair.jp/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/A-Complete-Guide-to-Traveling-to-Guam-with-Your-Beloved-Dog.jpg)
Last Updated: August 1, 2026
What You'll Learn in This Guide
- If you're traveling to Guam with your dog, when should you start preparing, and what should you do first?
- Exit Procedures in Japan (Notification to the Animal Quarantine Station; Export Quarantine Certificate)
- Requirements for Applying for an Entry Permit from the Government of Guam
- How Guam’s designation as a “designated area” by the Animal Quarantine Service affects the procedures for returning to Japan
- Things to Check When Choosing Accommodations, Tourist Attractions, and Restaurants
- Procedures Required When Returning to Your Home Country and Common Mistakes Made During Preparation
Why is Guam a popular destination for traveling abroad with your dog?
Guam is a popular choice for first-time overseas trips with dogs because it offers direct flights from Japan, has a warm climate year-round, and features a growing number of pet-friendly facilities. It’s a destination often considered by those taking their first overseas trip with a pet, as the travel burden is relatively low.
However, flight times, departure airports, and the number of flights may vary depending on the season. Be sure to check the specific schedule before making a reservation.United Airlines Official Websiteplease check there.
When should I start preparing for my trip?
When traveling to Guam with your dog, you’ll need to handle two distinct sets of preparations simultaneously: export procedures in Japan and applying for an entry permit from the Guam government. Since both processes involve paperwork and inspections that take several days, it’s best to start as early as possible to ensure a smooth trip.
[General] Start Preparations (As Soon as Possible)
- Verify that the microchip complies with both ISO 11784 and ISO 11785 standards. The order in which the microchip is implanted and vaccinations are administered may affect the procedures required upon your return to Japan. If your pet has not yet been microchipped, please consult the Animal Quarantine Station regarding the appropriate timing for implantation.
- Check the status of rabies vaccinations and consult with your veterinarian about the vaccination schedule
- Start researching flights and accommodations
[Entry into Guam] About 2–3 months before departure
- I have begun preparing the application documents for an Entry Permit from the Government of Guam. The official website recommends submitting the application 2 to 3 months prior to arrival (Source: Official Website of the Government of Guam)
- Check to see if any additional tests, such as antibody titer tests, are required (requirements vary depending on your point of departure, so please check the Guam government’s official website for details).
- Book your flight and accommodations, and confirm your advance application to travel with your pet
[Return to Japan] Up to 40 days before your scheduled arrival date in Japan (if your return date has been determined)
- At least 40 days prior to your scheduled arrival in Japan, submit a prior notification to the Animal Quarantine Station with jurisdiction over the airport or seaport of arrival (Source: Animal Quarantine Service: "Bringing Dogs and Cats into Japan (Designated Regions)")
[Departure from Japan + Entry into Guam] Up to 14 days before departure
- Apply for an export inspection at the Animal Quarantine Station (using NACCS; submit the application at least 14 days before the desired inspection date) (Source: Animal quarantine office "to export dogs and cats.")
- Submit the entry permit application documents to the Government of Guam (if not already submitted)
- Final Confirmation of Flights and Accommodations
[Departure from Japan] Within 10 days of departure
- Undergo a health examination and have an export inspection conducted at the Animal Quarantine Station (this is a different deadline from the one 14 days prior to the application).
- Obtain an export health certificate from the Animal Quarantine Station (be sure to obtain the rabies vaccination certificate from a veterinary clinic in advance).
[Departure from Japan] Day of Departure
- After having your documents checked at the airport and completing the final procedures, board the flight
The timeline above is for reference only. The number of days required may vary depending on your pet’s rabies vaccination history and test results, so be sure to check the latest information from your veterinarian, the Animal Quarantine Station, and the Government of Guam, and plan your schedule with plenty of time to spare.
What documents are required for departure procedures from Japan?
When exporting a pet from Japan, you must submit an application to the Animal Quarantine Station, undergo an inspection, and obtain an export quarantine certificate. Please note that the application deadline and the inspection date are set separately.
- Verification of Microchip Implantation — We will install devices that comply with both ISO 11784 and ISO 11785, and record and retain their serial numbers.
- Export inspection application to the Animal Quarantine Service — Submit your application via NACCS (Animal Quarantine-Related Services) no later than 14 days before your desired inspection date.
- Conducting Export Inspections — You must have your pet examined at an animal quarantine station within 10 days of departure. Please note that the application deadline (14 days prior) and the examination period (within 10 days) are different.
- Obtaining certificates — After undergoing testing for rabies (and leptospirosis for dogs), you will receive an export health certificate from the Animal Quarantine Station. Have your veterinarian issue a rabies vaccination certificate in advance and have it ready as well.
For details and the latest procedures,Animal quarantine office "to export dogs and cats."Please check here (verified in August 2026).
What procedures are required to enter Guam?
To enter Guam, you must apply for an animal import permit (Entry Permit) from the Guam government, in addition to completing the export procedures required by Japan. Since this requirement is not mentioned in the original article and is easy to overlook, be sure to confirm it early in your travel preparations.
| Items | Details |
|---|---|
| Where to apply | Government of Guam (Please check the official website below for details on where to apply and submit your application) |
| Application fees | An application fee applies (payment must be made by money order or certified check). Since the amount is subject to change, please check the official website for the most up-to-date fee. |
| Estimated Submission Deadline | The official website recommends submitting your application 2 to 3 months before your arrival. |
| Main Recommended Actions | Implantation of an electronic microchip / Rabies vaccination / A health certificate issued by a certified veterinarian within 10 days prior to arrival (this deadline is mandatory; certificates issued outside this timeframe may result in denial of entry or subject the pet to quarantine). Specific requirements—such as the validity period of the vaccine, the number of required doses, and whether an antibody titer test is necessary—vary depending on the country of departure, the quarantine program, and the pet’s age. Be sure to check the official website for the latest requirements for travel from Japan. |
| If the requirements are not met | Various detention measures have been established, including quarantine detention for up to 120 days. |
The table above summarizes the main requirements. The specific documents, inspections, and mooring procedures required may vary depending on the case and are subject to change, so be sure toOfficial Website of the Government of GuamandEntry Permit Application Form (PDF)Please check the latest information here (verified in August 2026). Even if you have all the necessary Japanese export health certificates, be sure not to overlook the fact that this separate entry permit is required.
Is Guam a “designated area”? Is an antibody test required upon returning to Japan?
Guam is one of the “designated regions” (rabies-free regions) specified by the Japanese Animal Quarantine Service. Therefore, the antibody titer test (0.5 IU/mL or higher) and the 180-day waiting period required for entry from regions other than designated regions are generally not required when returning to Japan from Guam. However, advance notification (at least 40 days prior to arrival) and microchipping are still required even for entry from a designated region.
| Category | Antibody Titer Test · 180-Day Waiting Period | Advance Registration and Microchipping |
|---|---|---|
| Guam (Designated Area) | Not usually required | Required |
| Countries and regions other than the designated areas | Required (0.5 IU/mL or higher; wait at least 180 days after blood draw) | Required |
The designated regions are the following six: “Iceland, Australia, New Zealand, the Fiji Islands, Hawaii, and Guam” (Source: Animal Quarantine Office: “Rabies-Free Areas and Designated Areas”). Since the actual terms and conditions vary by case, for more details,Animal Quarantine Service: "Bringing Dogs and Cats into Japan (Designated Regions)"Please check the latest requirements here (verified in August 2026).
For those who have so many things to prepare that they can't keep track of them all
Please let us know your destination and your planned departure date.
Here is the required preparation period and the order of the procedures.
How do I choose an airline and find flight information?
Several airlines operate flights from Japan to Guam. Since the airlines, airports, number of flights, and travel times vary depending on the season, please check the official websites of the major airlines for specific schedules before making a reservation (e.g., United Airlines Official Website）。
Conditions for transporting pets (whether they can be carried in the cabin, carrier size, fees, and booking deadlines) may vary depending on the flight, aircraft type, and season. Whether you are considering bringing a small dog into the cabin or arranging transportation for a large dog, please be sure to check the conditions directly with the airline. Since transportation options vary depending on the aircraft type and travel dates, if you are unsure about what to do, please consult PetAir, and we will guide you through the options best suited to your situation.
For tips on reducing stress for dogs during travel,An article summarizing tips for enjoying overseas travel with your dogPlease see this as well.
How Do You Choose a Pet-Friendly Hotel?
When choosing a pet-friendly hotel in Guam, it’s important to check the location, room types, and pet policies before making your decision. Since room rates and pet policies vary by hotel and are subject to change, this guide does not list specific prices; we recommend that you always check the official website at the time of booking.
Wyndham Garden Guam
- Tumon District. Located about a 10-minute drive from Guam International Airport
- Pets are allowed (please confirm weight restrictions and other conditions in advance). Please check the official website for acceptance policies and fees when making your reservation.
Bayview Hotel Guam
- Tumon District. Located near the beach and shopping centers
- Pets are allowed (please confirm weight restrictions and other conditions in advance). Please check the official website for acceptance policies and fees when making your reservation.
Garden Villa Hotel
- Tamuning District. A quiet residential area
- Pets are allowed (please confirm weight restrictions and other conditions in advance). Please check the official website for acceptance policies and fees when making your reservation.
The Westin Resort Guam
- Beachfront in the Tumon District
- Pets allowed (subject to confirmation). Please check the official website for acceptance policies and fees at the time of booking.
Dusit Beach Resort Guam
- Beachfront in the Tumon District
- Pets allowed (please confirm). Since the facility name or operating company may have changed, we recommend confirming the official name before making a reservation.
In addition to the options listed above, there are other pet-friendly accommodations in Guam. Since pet policies and rates are subject to change, be sure to check the latest information on each hotel’s official website before making a reservation.
What are some local sightseeing and walking spots?
In Guam, you can enjoy walking your dog along the beaches, including Tumon Beach. Since temperatures rise during the day, it’s best to choose cooler times of day, such as early morning or evening.
- Tumon Beach Area — The early morning hours from around 6 to 8 a.m. are ideal for a beach walk in the morning sun, while the late afternoon hours from around 4 to 6 p.m. are perfect for a stroll while watching the sunset. Both are relatively cool times of day.
- Ipao Beach Park — It features a large grassy area and plenty of shallow waters. There are also shaded spots. It’s a good idea to bring a portable water bottle, cooling items, and sun protection gear.
Since pet policies may vary by beach or park, be sure to check local signs and official information before your visit.
Which restaurants allow pets?
In Guam, there are restaurants with outdoor terrace seating, primarily along Tumon Beach and in the Gun Beach area (please check with each restaurant regarding pet policies). Operating hours and pet policies vary by restaurant and are subject to change, so it’s essential to check before your visit.
- Find restaurants with outdoor terrace seating — Along Tumon Beach and in the Gan Beach area, there are numerous restaurants with outdoor seating where you can enjoy a meal while looking out at the ocean.
- Be sure to check in advance whether pets are allowed. — Policies regarding whether pets are allowed and the areas where they are permitted (e.g., terrace seating only) vary by location and time of day, and are subject to change. Be sure to check by phone, on the official website, or through reviews on map apps before your visit.
Since specific store names and operating hours are subject to change, please check the latest information on a map app or at a local tourist information center before visiting.
What are some tips for staying cool and traveling safely?
Since Guam has high temperatures and humidity year-round, it’s a good idea to be more mindful of heat precautions than you would be in Japan. Choose to go for walks during the cooler hours of early morning or evening, and be sure to stay hydrated by drinking water frequently.
Make sure to have it ready so you can use it right away while you're out and about or taking a walk.
During times of strong direct sunlight, choose a spot with shade.
Since the ground tends to get very hot during the day when temperatures are high, be sure to check it with your hand before letting your dog walk on it.
If you notice signs such as lethargy or rapid breathing, do not force the animal to drink water; instead, contact a local veterinary clinic as soon as possible.
Bringing a medical certificate from your regular veterinarian (in English), your pet’s regular medications, and basic first-aid supplies will give you peace of mind in case your pet’s condition changes while you’re away. Please consult your regular veterinarian before departure regarding vaccinations and other health management decisions.
What procedures are required when returning to Japan?
When returning to Japan from Guam, in addition to the advance notification required by Japanese authorities (which you should have already completed before your trip), you must undergo a health examination and obtain a certificate prior to departure, and present these documents for verification at the Animal Quarantine Station upon arrival in Japan.
- Pre-Departure Medical Examination (in Guam) — You must undergo a health examination and obtain a health certificate before departure. Since the timing of the examination and the issuing authority may vary depending on the circumstances, please check with the Animal Quarantine Station for details.
- Preparing the Required Documents — In addition to the health certificate, please prepare the certificate of loading (if required).
- Confirmation Upon Arrival in Japan — You will have your documents checked and inspected at the animal quarantine counter. Since the time required varies depending on the situation, be sure to allow plenty of time in your schedule if you have a connecting flight.
As mentioned earlier, since Guam is designated as a “designated area” by the Animal Quarantine Service, the antibody titer test and 180-day waiting period typically required for entry from non-designated areas are not necessary. However, since the actual conditions that apply may vary by case, before traveling,Animal Quarantine Service: "Bringing Dogs and Cats into Japan (Designated Regions)"Please check there for the latest information.
What are some common mistakes and things to watch out for during preparation?
Here are five things that are particularly easy to overlook when preparing for a trip to Guam.
What can PetAir do?
PetAir provides a full range of support services for traveling to Guam with your dog, including guidance on preparing the necessary documents, organizing information regarding animal quarantine procedures, assistance with airline arrangements, guidance on customs clearance, and handling the handover at the airport. Please let us know your planned travel dates and your pet’s condition, and we will advise you on the necessary preparation time and the steps to follow.
We do not prepare documents or submit applications on your behalf; our services primarily focus on organizing the necessary information and guiding you through the procedures. We do not guarantee entry into the destination country, confirm flight reservations, or certify your pet’s health status. Please consult with your pet’s owner and your regular veterinarian regarding vaccinations and health management. Fees vary depending on the destination, travel dates, and your pet’s condition; we will provide an estimate when you contact us.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Summary: Understanding the Two Entry Procedures and the Benefits of Designated Areas
When traveling to Guam with your dog, the key is to take care of two procedures well in advance: the export procedures in Japan and the application for an Entry Permit from the Guam government. Additionally, knowing that Guam is a “designated area” by the Animal Quarantine Service will help you avoid unnecessary inspections and quarantine periods upon your return to Japan.
Since regulations and procedures are subject to change, be sure toAnimal Quarantine Service, ,Government of GuamPlease check the official websites of each airline for the latest information. If you factor your return procedures into your schedule before you leave, you’ll be able to enjoy your stay abroad with peace of mind.
🐾 Traveling to Guam with Your Dog: Start with a Free Consultation
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Written by: PetAirJPN Editorial Department (International Pet Transportation Operations Team)
*The information in this article is current as of August 2026. Quarantine regulations in various countries and regions, as well as airline policies, are subject to change without notice. This article is intended to provide general information only; to determine whether travel is permitted and to confirm specific requirements, please be sure to check the latest official information from the Animal Quarantine Service, the Government of Guam, and the airlines.
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