5 Tips For Moving With Pets
If you are planning a move, be sure to consider the logistics involved when moving your finned, furred, feathered, and scaled family members. Avoid having your family pets caught up in the chaos of moving by doing your research and planning ahead. Here are 5 suggestions to make things easier on everyone
1. Decide in advance how your pet will be traveling.
If you are making a short move then this may not be a concern. For small creatures like birds, fish, rodents, and reptiles, discuss transportation options with someone at your local pet store. Birds, hamsters, guinea pigs, etc. typically feel safer when their cages are covered and there are specially made containers for transporting fish. However, if you are driving a long distance, flying, or will not have room in your vehicle for your pet, then a bit more planning is in order. If you are flying, you will need to complete all of the airline's required paperwork, provide them with your pet's vaccination records, and find out their rules regarding the sizes & types of carriers they will allow. Find out how the airline will handle your pet's food, water, and medication needs. Discuss flight plans with your veterinarian, and avoid sedating your pet whenever possible. Make sure they get plenty of fresh air and exercise prior to the departure. Another solution is to hire a company that specializes in pet transport. This is often a good idea for older pets and those that simply may not be able to handle the stress of flying. A pet transport company will have its own list of requirements and helpful suggestions. To locate one, the Internet is a good place to start. Traditional moving companies may also be able to make a recommendation.
2. Keep your pet comfortable.
For a long car trip, have a bag packed for your pet containing food, dishes, water, toys, leash, waste disposal bags and any medications they may need. A soft blanket or towel is nice for them to curl up on. Make stops at least every 3 to 4 hours for bathroom and exercise breaks. An old towel or two is nice to have after a stop in case anyone has wet or muddy paws. If traveling by plane place something soft and familiar in the crate they will be traveling in-perhaps an article of your clothing, as well as a favorite toy. After flying, cats should be kept indoors for a 24-hour recovery period as the experience of flying may disorient them for a short time.
3. Take your animal to the vet before the move.
They should have their shots updated and a check-up before they relocate. Complete any paperwork you'll need to obtain your pet's records. Find out if there are different or additional vaccination requirements in your soon to be new area. Finally, ask your current veterinarian if they can make a suggestion or referral for an animal clinic in the area to which you are moving.
4. Safety first on moving day.
If a moving company is assisting you during the move, either secure your pets in an empty room or crate. Another option is to board them. The busy pace, strangers, and noise of packing up a household can be very stressful for pets. You don't want to risk a frightened cat or dog to run away on moving day. If you choose to secure them at home, make sure everyone involved with the job of packing up is aware of where they are. Let them know that the door must remain closed. Don't take any chances and explain the situation with a note on the door: "DO NOT OPEN! PET-SAFE HOLDING AREA!"
5. Help them settle into the new home.
When you arrive at your new place, help your animals ease into it by being especially gentle with them and attentive to their needs. Instead of getting caught up immediately with unpacking, take time to show your pets around. Allow them to explore the entire area, inside and out. Keep them close by, until you have a chance to install proper barriers such as cat doors or fencing to keep them safe. Call the Chamber of Commerce, Parks and Recreation, or City Planning office to find out about registration requirements, leash laws, noise ordinances, and the location of pet-friendly places, such as dog parks. Finally, have new pet tags made as soon as possible with all of your new information.
Best of luck for a safe and pleasant move for you and your pet.
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