Moving is can be stressful before adding animals into the mix. From airline transit to health and wellness, moving our furry family members can involve a significant amount of preparation.
If you’re moving to a new home close by and you have early access, we recommend introducing the pet to the home before you move. This gives them an opportunity to explore the new home and property, making the adjustment a bit easier as they become familiar with the new home.
Prepare ahead of time
Depending on where you’re going and what kind of pet you’re taking with you, you may have special requirements for your pet. If you’re traveling via airline, check out the rules and regulations for the airline. If you’re traveling a long distance by car, you’ll want to consider extra time at fuel stops for walking your pet. You’ll also want to research what hotels are pet-friendly. The last thing you want after a long day of travel is to arrive at your hotel for the night only to be turned away because of your pet.
Be sure they have tags on them
Before the move, make sure your pet has identification tags on them. This is a simple safety precaution in case they get loose in an unfamiliar location. Many owners consider microchipping their pets so they can easily find them.
Get your pet’s health records from the vet
Before you leave town, you’ll want to get a copy of your health records from the vet. This will make getting a new vet in your new city up to speed much faster. Some states also have requirements regarding pets vaccinations, so you’ll want to make sure you have any certificates of vaccinations that may be required in your new location.
Consider your pet’s emotional well-being
Pets can become very anxious during a move. They’re not sure what’s going on and may be confused. Depending on your method of travel, you may talk to your vet about sedatives or calming options. It’s also a good idea to show those fur-babies some extra love in the days leading up to the move. Try to keep the normal routine of play and feeding times to ease some of their anxiety.
Avoid feeding your pet right before the move
Whether you’re traveling by plane, train, or automobile, having a pet with a fresh belly full of food is not a good idea. Cats and dogs can experience stomach issues from both motion sickness and anxiety, so try to feed them a few hours before travels begin to avoid unnecessary complications.
Get some exercise in before you travel
Before you hit the road, try to get some playtime and exercise in with your dog before you get in the car. They will enjoy themselves and tire out, making them less likely to suffer severe anxiety and more likely to sleep during the travels.
Never leave your pet unattended in a parked car
Temperatures in the car can rise quickly, even on warm days. Excessive heat can cause a heat stroke or worse, so be sure to keep them company and keep them safe.
Keep your pet’s necessities separated from other belongings
This will make things easier throughout the moving day. Make sure you have all the food, toys, bowls, water, medicines, etc. your pet might need for the travel and unpacking days.
Keep your pet safely isolated during the move
Moving day can be a dangerous environment for your pet. With movers and helpers going in and out, moving furniture and belongings in and out of the home, there is a significant risk to your pet’s safety. That said, consider keeping them in a safe area of the house where they aren’t likely to endanger themselves in the hustle and bustle of the day.
Following these tips will help you keep your furry family members safe and happy throughout the move to your new home.
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