Finding the right facility to kennel your pet is challenging. Finding one that will work around your schedule and help you out in tight spots is almost impossible. Luckily, at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, the Pet Brigade goes above and beyond to assist the military families stationed there and those PCSing in and out.

"We truly treat our PCSing families special," explained Genevieve Kennedy, Public Relations Manager for the Pet Brigade. "No matter the day or the hour, we have an on-call cell phone that they call for help."

When military families call that number they have access to not only the kennel facilities, but also pet transportation. The van, which is lined with crates for safe transport, can be used for dogs and cats...and maybe even an occasional rabbit. For a flat fee ($25 for roundtrip off-base, $5 for roundtrip on-base) owners can know that their pet is being taken to daycare, for grooming or even to a veterinary appointment. For dual military couples in particular, this service can really make a difference and ensure that the pets are getting where they need to go.

Families who've just arrived at JBLM, like the Kelloggs, cannot say enough about this service.

"When my family and I got off the plane from Germany, we didn't have a place to go except for the hotel on base. Well, our cat wasn't allowed in - not even in the lobby. We were exhausted after our 10-hour flight, but the Pet Brigade made life so much easier. They came and picked up our cat from the hotel and it was definitely afterhours. We were so comforted in knowing that she was okay."

Conversely, the Pet Brigade staff also specializes in OCONUS PCSing, and in addition to offering airport shuttle service for the furry ($135) they are knowledgeable about the various health certifications and parameters associated with taking your pet overseas, which often includes a last-minute veterinary seal of approval 24 hours before a flight.

"My wife, Christy, was trying to get everything in order to get our two dogs to our new home and was feeling more than a little overwhelmed. She had called several places trying to figure out the best course of action. Once she made contact with the Pet Brigade, she instantly felt she could trust your team," said Air Force SMSgt Terry Webb, Jr. "Your insight and knowledge of the process was the key to getting our precious puppies to Japan without a hitch. You went above and beyond what was expected by picking our dogs up from the airport, caring for them, coordinating their vet visit and USDA appointments and getting them back to her at the airport at exactly the perfect time to meet the rotator. We were able to relax just a bit knowing your group of dedicated professionals was caring for our dogs. I can't thank you enough."

Kennedy, who is a military spouse herself, says that the majority of the staff are also dependents, which helps to create an understanding and level of trust with their customers.

"PCSing is stressful, so we like that we can take some of the pressure off," Kennedy said.

The Pet Brigade is located on JBLM North, in Building 04907, Pendleton Drive. For more information call (253) 912-4898 or visit www.thepetbrigade.com.