Dog Ate Your Passport? How to Replace a Damaged Passport Fast (2026 Guide)

If your dog ate or damaged your passport, you cannot use it if the damage affects the photo page, barcode, or embedded chip. In most cases, you’ll need to apply for a replacement passport immediately. Even minor damage can lead to denied boarding or entry, so replacing it before travel is strongly recommended.

What to Do If Your Dog Ate Your Passport

1. Check the Level of Damage

• Replace immediately if:
  • Photo page is chewed or torn
  • Passport chip is damaged
  • Barcode or machine-readable zone is unreadable
• May still work (not guaranteed):
  • Minor cover damage
  • Small tears on non-critical pages

Border agents and airlines in the U.S. can reject passports that appear altered or damaged.

2. Report It as a Damaged Passport

A chewed passport is considered damaged (not lost).

You will need:

• A new passport application (Form DS-11 or DS-82 depending on eligibility)
• Your damaged passport
• A written explanation describing what happened

Be direct: explain that the passport was damaged (for example, by a pet).

. Apply for a Replacement Passport

Submit your application at a passport acceptance facility or post office in New York.

You’ll need:

• Completed application form
• New passport photo
• Proof of citizenship (if required)
• Government-issued ID
• Payment for passport fees

4. Need It Fast? Use Expedited Service

If you have upcoming travel:

• Request expedited processing (2–3 weeks)
• Or schedule an appointment at a regional passport agency in New York for urgent travel

For emergency situations, same-day or 24–72 hour processing may be available.

5. Travel Soon? Don’t Risk It

Even slightly damaged passports can cause:

• Airline boarding denial
• Delays at immigration
• Entry refusal into your destination country

Replacing your passport before travel is the safest option.

Can You Travel With a Chewed Passport?

Technically possible—but risky.

You may be allowed to travel if:

• All information is clearly readable
• No pages are missing
• The passport chip still works

You will likely be denied if:

• The photo page is damaged
• Pages are torn or missing
• The passport looks altered

Final decision is always made by airline staff and border officials.

Expedited Passport Help

If your passport has been chewed or damaged, it’s best to replace it as soon as possible—especially if you have upcoming travel. Expedited passport services can help you receive a replacement in as little as 24–72 hours, depending on your situation. Acting quickly helps you avoid delays, cancellations, and travel disruptions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a passport with bite marks?

Only if the damage is minor and does not affect important information—but it’s still risky.

Will airlines accept a damaged passport?

Not always. Airlines can deny boarding if the passport appears damaged.

How long does it take to replace a damaged passport?

Routine processing takes several weeks, but expedited options are available within 2–3 weeks or faster.

Do I need to report a damaged passport?

Yes. You must submit it with your replacement application and explain the damage.