Five Tips to Help Pets Transition During a Move
Moving is a stressful and uncertain time for the whole family, especially for household pets. Dogs and cats often have the most difficult time during a move, feeling out of place as their familiar surroundings are packed away piece by piece. Arriving at their new home causes just as much uncertainty as they are introduced to a new yard and have to locate a new favorite lounging spot.
FlatRate Moving & Storage, a nationwide leader in moving and storage, offers these tips to help your dogs and cats have a smooth transition to their new homes.
- Comfort Your Pets – Animals are great at sensing when you are feeling stressed or uncertain. Building up to and during a move, your calm and familiar voice will help to reassure them that everything is going to be okay.
- Have Something Special – Rewarding your dog our cat with their favorite treat or toy when first introduced to their new surroundings will help them relax and feel at home.
- Keep Them Occupied – Keeping animals out of the way of the movers will ensure both the pets and movers safety, while also allowing the movers to be more efficient. Plus with territorial animals like dogs, keeping them occupied will burn their energy so when they return to an empty house they are too tired to fuss.
- Use an Animal Carrier – Cats are especially sensitive to new surroundings so transporting them in an animal carrier will help alleviate some of their anxieties. When you get to your new home, simply set the carrier down, open the door, and let the cat’s natural curiosity do the rest.
- Place Familiar Things in Familiar Spots –Putting their bed, feeding dishes, kitty litters, etc. in locations similar to their old home, helps familiarize your pet with their new place.
Moving pets to new location is not an easy task, even if you move just few blocks
away. The following topics will help you move your pets and plants safely to their new
home:
Preparing your pet for the move
When preparing your pet for the move be aware of the following issues:
Veterinarian: Don’t forget to schedule an appointment with your veterinarian. Your pet should
have a check-up before moving. Be sure to attain your pet’s veterinary records so that they
can be forwarded to your new veterinarian. Make sure you carry copies of the records with
you during the move.
Travel Carrier: If you plan to move your pet, you may need to purchase a pet travel carrier for
the trip. The carrier should be large enough for the pet to stand, turn around and lie down in.
The carrier should have ample ventilation, a good bottom lining, and a secure door closing.
ID Tag: When moving your dog or cat make sure it is wearing an ID tag bearing its name, your
name and new address, and a phone number to call in case of emergency.
Fish: If you plan to move your fish visit your local aquarium or pet shop and ask for special fish
containers. They should be able to offer suggestions on how to transport different types of fish
and other aquatic animals.
Restrictions on pets: Certain localities may have strict requirements or restrictions regarding
pet ownership. Once you’ve made the decision to move to a new home, you will need to do
some research. Some communities have local regulations regarding number and types of pet’s
allowed, leash laws, etc., and you may need permits or registrations. Call the city or town hall
and ask for the bureau of licenses.
Pet Resume: You might need to prepare a pet resume for prospective landlords, if your new
home will be rented. Ask your veterinarian for a referral letter.
Moving Day: Keep your pet calm and away from all the activity on moving day by arranging
with a friend to watch him at their house. If you plan to keep you pet close to you prepare a
room for your pet to stay at during the move. Clear a room of all furniture and other belongings
and close your pet in with food, water and a favorite toy or two. Your pet still might not be
happy, but you’ll know where it is, and that it’s safe.
Driving with your pet
If you move your pets by car your dog or cat may find car travel extremely distressing. Make
sure to stop frequently to allow your pet to exercise and relieve itself. There are several things
you should plan on taking with you on moving day:
An old bed sheet or blanket will protect your car upholstery.
A favorite toy or two, and an old T-shirt or rag with your scent on it.
Two plastic containers – one should have fresh water, the other should have food and treats.
Medications that your pet may need.
A leash for when you make rest stops with your pet.
Even if your pet doesn’t typically get car sick, you should bring paper towels, a sponge, and
plenty of plastic bags.
Cats: Cats should always be kept in a carrier during auto travel. Since cats don’t usually
adjust to auto travel the way dogs do, it might be a good idea to have your vet prescribe a mild
tranquilizer.
Hotels: Long distance moves may require an overnight stop. Remember to call hotels in
advance to make sure that they will allow your pet to stay in the hotel.
Parking: If you move your pet by car, never leave him unattended in a parked car. This is
especially true during the hot summer months, when the temperature in your car can rise to
120 degrees.
Small Pets: Smaller animals, such as hamsters and birds, can easily be transported by car
with you. Make sure there is plenty of food and water and cover the cage with a cloth to keep
them calm.
State Inspections: If moving your pet by car, be aware that some states conduct border
inspections or random inspections by highway patrol officers. Just to be on the safe side,
check the regulations of every state you plan to pass through.
Flying your pet
If you plan to fly your pet, make your flight arrangements far in advance and try to book a
direct flight. Many airlines have restrictions on the total number of pets allowed onboard for
any one flight. You may also be surprised to find that some airlines don’t allow pets at all.
Expect to pay a fee for your pets travel accommodations.
Airline Restrictions: If you plan to fly your pet, find out any restrictions that may apply. Call the
airline’s reservations number and ask if you’ll be able to bring your pet onboard as a carry-on.
This is highly preferable when compared against the alternative of checking your pet in the
planes cargo hold.
Health Certificate: Plan to visit your veterinarian within 30 days prior to your flight. Most
airlines require an up-to-date health certificate. Different countries and states may also have
their own requirements, so make sure to check in with the proper authorities before your trip.
Pet Container: You may use your own pet container for your pet if it meets airline regulations.
If it doesn’t, the airline will provide one for you.
Dogs: If you plan to fly your dog, always take him for a long walk before the trip. Never feed
your pet too much before the flight.
Sedation: Usually, your pet will need to be sedated before flying. However, do not sedate your
pet if it is not absolutely necessary.