A Guide To Moving Your Pets

A Guide to Taking your Pets when Moving



Moving is an exciting and busy time. You can get so busy preparing, packing, scheduling, etc. that you might forget about the other "members" of your family - your pets. Planning to take pets with you when moving? Start preparing now with the quick guide below.



Pets in the Car

For dogs, cats and other pets who like to roam around, moving will be a great task. Why? These types of pets become very closely-knit with their home and environment. Going away from their home can be devastating. If you're moving a short distance from where you live currently, it's best if you can take your pets in the car with you. They'll feel much safer being with you than on a lonely, strange delivery truck. Dogs usually adjust to car rides better than cats. If your pet is not accustomed to car rides, try taking it on a ride several times before the move so it will become familiar with riding.



If your pet is a bird, goldfish, hamster or other caged animal, make sure the container used for transport is comfortable and secure.



Foreign Travel for Pets



If taking your pet to another country, you need to prepare in advance for your pet just as you will for yourself. Some countries will require a "pet passport" and other documentation. Apply early to get your pet approved, and make sure your type of pet is allowed in that particular country and the neighborhood where you will be living.



Pets in the Air



Plan a flight with your pet far in advance. Many airlines will have certain requirements for taking pets along, so you can contact them early on to learn what you should do. You'll likely have to put your pet in a secure airport-approved carrier and take it on the plane with you in the plane's designated animal area. This can be a traumatic time for your pet, being separated from you for the entire flight, so you will need to give it extra special care when you arrive. Don't feed your pet too close to your flight time - it might get sick. Also, mark the pet's container anywhere you can with the words "Live Animal" so people handling the container will be extra careful.



Pet Containers



There are many types of pet containers available on the market that are great for travel. Make sure the container is large enough for comfort, but not so large that your pet will be tossed around. Your pet should be able to stand up, lie down or turn around. Check the container for adequate ventilation, and make sure there are no areas where leakage might occur when the pet "goes." Put something absorbent in the bottom as well.



If you're uncertain about the best travel container for your pet, ask your veterinarian for suggestions. Also, ask about medications to help your pet on the trip, any vaccinations that might be needed before traveling to another country, etc. When traveling to some countries, you might need proof of vaccination from your vet.



Taking Care of your Pet during the Move



If you have a cat or dog, put them in a separate room with food, water and a toy during the loading process. The movers and all the commotion can make any pet nervous, and might send your pet into hiding if you don't keep it in a room with the door closed. Keep checking on your pet in the room to let them know you're still around.



Arriving at the New Home with your Pet



Arriving at your new home will be strange to your pet, so you should be very cautious. Have a leash ready so the pet doesn't attempt to run away. Keep your pet indoors for a few days until it becomes familiar with the home. Then, take it outdoors on a leash each day and let it explore the yard. Put the food and water dish outside so the pet will realize that this is their new home - and yours.



Have an I.D. tag made for the animal's collar with the new address and phone number in case it tries to run away. Also, have all the animal's familiar items around such as bedding, toys, bowls, etc.



No matter what type of pet you have, take special time out of your busy moving schedule to show your pet love and attention. This will make moving much easier for you and your pet.