When moving to a new home, you want every member of your household to be comfortable. Since pets can be especially sensitive to moving, it’s important to take a few precautions. If you are planning on moving with pets, here are tips to help the process go more smoothly.
Preparing For The Move
Before the moving day, make sure your pet is fitted with a collar and ID tag. At the very least, ID tags should have your name and a current phone number.
TIP: Consider getting your pet microchipped. It can serve as a good backup in the event your pet losses its collar.
The Importance Of Being Consistent
Pets appreciate a consistent routine. Try to maintain your pet’s regular routine right up until the move. If your non-human friend is accustomed to a morning walk, make sure you take it. Whether your move is a few miles or a few hundred miles, try to keep them on their normal diet. A common mistake made by pet owners is to give pets special treats as comfort food. This can lead to nausea or diarrhea.
TIP: If your pet is prone to motion sickness, visit your veterinarian a few weeks prior to your move to discuss medications and feeding recommendations that can help help alleviate discomfort.
Mode Of Transportation
When planning to move your pet to the new home, you’ll need to consider the mode of transportation. Whenever possible, pick the form of transportation that is least likely to cause distress to your pet. In many cases, traveling by car is the easiest for an animal.
TIP: For long distance travel, consider using an animal transportation service. They are generally well-equipped to minimize distress for your pet.
Driving With Pets
Cats, small dogs and other small animals should be kept in a secure, well-ventilated pet carrier. A restraining harness can be used for larger dogs. Try to stop frequently to allow your pet to exercise and relieve itself. A good rule of thumb is to pull over about every two hours. Be sure to keep your pet harnessed during these breaks.
For long-distance road trips, be sure to identify pet-friendly hotels along your route and make reservations in advance. For a list of pet-friendly hotels, visit pets welcome.com or pet-friendly-hotels.net.
TIP: Never leave your pet unattended in a parked car, and never travel with a pet in the cargo area of a moving truck or van. This is especially true during hot summer months, when the temperature in a vehicle can quickly rise and become deadly.
Flying With Pets
Make your flight arrangements as far in advance as possible. Those airlines that are willing to accommodate pets have restrictions on how many are allowed on each flight.
TIP: Plan to visit your veterinarian within 30 days before your flight. Many airlines require a current health certificate. Different countries and states may have their own requirements. Be sure to check with the proper authorities before your move.
Moving with pets can be a rewarding experience in the long run, as long as you take the necessary precautions. We hope these tips will help to make your transition a success!
