Moving can be a very stressful times for pets. By staying organized during your move and working with your veterinarian, you can make your pet’s transition to your new home much easier.
Packing & Planning for Your Move
- While packing, be sure any hazardous items are kept away from pets including cleaners, chemicals, and sharp objects.
- Look for recommendations for a vet in your new hometown. Check with your current veterinarian to see if they know of anyone, use social media to get recommendations, and scout out reviews on Yelp or Google. Be sure to check the qualifications of your new vet before making the switch.
- Make an appointment with your veterinarian to make sure all of your pet’s vaccinations are up to date. Also discuss options for sedatives and alternative treatments that can reduce your pet’s anxiety during the move.
- Get current copies of your pet’s medical records from your vet. If traveling by air or staying at a hotel during the move, a health certificate may be required. Be sure to ask your vet for this if you have a long move.
- Refill any of your pet’s prescriptions before moving day and keep them accessible during the move.
- If flying, research how your pet will travel. Ask your airline the following questions BEFORE booking your flight.
- Where will the pet travel? Is it allowed to be crated and ride in the cabin with you? Is there a designated area for pets? Will the pet be required to ride in the cargo area?
- How is temperature controlled in the area your pet will be flying? What will be done to avoid extreme and unsafe temperatures?
- Will your pet be on the same flight as you?
- What is the procedure for finding lost pets if they are on a different flight?
Travelling With Your Pet
- If driving a long distance, conduct some research and find pet-friendly rest stops along the way so your pet can relieve themselves during the trip. You won’t want to rely solely on using the shoulder along highways as this can be a very unsafe situation. Find pet-friendly parks, rest stops, or dog parks along your route. It will be nice for all of you to stop and stretch for a few minutes.
- Keep your vehicle cleaner by covering seats with sheets and blankets. It will be easier to launder the pet hair off blankets than try to vacuum off upholstery.
- Never place your pet in the back of a moving truck. This is a very unsafe place for travel.
- Do not leave your pet unattended in the car while making stops. Temperatures can quickly change in a vehicle to extreme hot or cold.
- Find pet-friendly hotels if your move will take more than one day. Websites such as bringfido.net and hotels.petswelcome.com make searching for accommodations easy.
Welcoming Your Pet Home
- When arriving at your new home, conduct a safety inspection before allowing your pet to enter. Make sure there is nothing left behind by prior residents, construction crews, or the cleaning company that may be unsafe. Be sure to check the outside and yards, too!
- Set your pet’s belongings up first, if possible. This will give them a sense of familiarity and comfort in the middle of moving chaos.
- Contact the local health department to register your pets and obtain the proper tags and licenses.
- Give your pets lots of love after the move. They’ll need it!
Do you have other tips to share? Please join our conversation on social media or right here!
