This experience is shared by Caroline Page Skinner who wanted to bring her pet Jackson’s Chameleon when she moved from Hawaii back to the Netherlands. She shares her experience in getting legal approval to transport her chameleon from Hawaii.
Caroline writes:
“Hi Everyone!
People have asked how I got my boy out of Hawaii legally, so I wanted to share that process.
You need a clean bill of health from a vet WITHIN 10 days of leaving. It can be confusing needing one thing 10 days before and one thing 10 days or less before leaving.
You then need to get a license to take them off Hawaii through the department of wildlife. These office should be available throughout the islands (at least on the main ones). The permits must be obtained at least 10 days BEFORE leaving. Bring the bill if clean health to this office. Sometimes they are flexible, but I wouldn’t count on it. They do want these guys off island! Make sure an appointment is not needed. You will be signing something stating you will NEVER bring them back.
A cage that is TSA regulated is mandatory for travel. I used the smallest dog/cat cage available that is TSA approved. I made sure, as nicely as I could, to make sure he wouldn’t fit through holes before buying it. If you are looking to bring home a baby, it will not work. I used some fake vines to weave in an out of holes to put him on so that he would not slosh around. I also put a small hand towel underneath in case he did fall. Lastly they require food and water is available in cage for liability reasons. I put in and attached with some zipties a hamster bottle. I told them at the check-in that he was just fed and would not need food and that seemed fine. If they do give you trouble, throw some ham or lettuce in there. They don’t know what they eat or how they drink, so it won’t matter as long as there is something. Make sure they are super hydrated before as it will be a dry ride for them.
Next you need to book a ticket for them on a plane. Only two airlines allow reptiles even on the plane, and in my opinion the best is Alaska. They will be in the pet compartment, not in cabin. Alaska will come onto the plane and personally hand you a piece of paper that was attached to the cage that states they are on the plane. It was a big relief!
Before they bring him back, while at check in, they will ask you to take them out to investigate the cage for safety reasons, so be prepared, and be prepared for a lot of people wanting to come look at the Jackson.
Lastly, they will be picked up where oversize luggage comes in. Usually through a door right off of the luggage belt.”
