We must be honest with ourselves, it is hard and stressful for us to pack up our life and move, so just imagine how it feels for our pets. Moving with your pet is not an easy decision, and you must consider all pros and cons before doing it. You need to choose will you transport them via car or an airplane. There are so many decisions to make and we will help you through this process. Also, we will provide with all the tips and trick if you decide to move with your pet. You also need to consider different regulations depending on the state.
Choosing right place to live for you and your pet
When you find the house of your dreams, you need to make sure that it is a dream home for your pet as well. We would advise you to check if you are moving to the pet-friendly apartment. If you are moving to a house, it would be nice if it has a backyard. Also, you need to consider your pet health, because if you have an older dog – moving into an apartment building with a lot of staircases might not be wise. If you have a cat, you can consider finding a place with a lot of vertical space, so you can build a playground for your cat. And the most important thing, you need to check all the law regulations and requirements before moving. If you are not sure how to choose, you can find a bunch of advice on All American Moves.
Planning how to move with your pet
Basic preparations for moving with your pet
Do you remember when you were going on vacation and pulled up your suitcase how you pet became nervous? Well, remember that and imagine how your pet feels when you are moving to a different location. It is not important is it across town, or to another state, your pet can sense that something is going on. You can bring boxes in one of the rooms before the moving day is. Also, one possibility is that you choose one person that will take care of the pet during the packing and on a moving day. And also you will have to take your pet to the vet, so he can get a pet passport. The vet will have to provide you with proof of rabies vaccination (the most important document) and health certificate. Make sure that your pet has ID tag.
Moving by air
You have decided to move your pet with an airplane. The best thing you can do is to choose a pet-friendly company that will make the transition much easier. If your pet is small enough to fit into a carrier, he will be with you in the cabin throughout the whole trip. But if your pet is big and it needs to be in cargo area there are some things you need to take care of. Be aware that in both cases you will have to pay additional fees. If your pet is traveling in the cargo area, you will have to have a kennel that is filling all the regulations. And you will have to make sure to do the following things:
- Provide the shipping container that has your name, address and phone number
- Have all the health documents ready and checked
- You will have to be at the airport a little bit earlier
- Pay all the fees
- Do not sedate your pet
Moving by car
You have decided that you will move with your pet by car or a trailer. That seems like a better choice, safer and you will be with your pet all the time. You can ease the stress for you and your pet by making sure they have their favorite toys with them or their pillow. You can explore your route and check is there any pet-friendly hotels, parks. Make sure that your dog will be calm and won’t bark at passing cars or maybe stick his head out the window. Yeah, we know they love it but if you are going on a long trip you should avoid letting them do that. We made a list of some practical things and advises how you can make the trip easier:
- Have a little extra of pet treats
- Buy anti-spill water bottles
- Prepare first aid kit
- Bring a photo of your pet in case you got separated
Moving with your pet via car
Tips & trick for an easier trip
Now, when we have talked about the basic things, we have a couple of tips & tricks up in our sleeve when you are moving with your pet. You shouldn’t feed your pet just before the trip, because they will get nauseous. You can keep your car windows opened just a little bit, so there is fresh air. Buy harness and leash, and have it with you at all times. You should never let your pet wander around by themselves in an unknown place. They can easily get lost. Your pet will probably be nervous so it would be a good idea to keep it away from strangers and kids. Prepare an old towel in case of rain. And last, have a roll of paper so you can wipe their muddy paws before they get back into the vehicle. Also, as you already know plastic waste bags are a must-have.
Settling in
You have arrived at your new home. You like it, it seems like your pet likes it. There are a couple of things that you can do to make it easier for your pet to accommodate. Create their own piece of heaven, where they will have their old bed and toys, away from all the unpacking. Also, a good thing would be if you can position bowls in a similar place as it was in your old house.
Settling in with your pet in your new home.
After moving with your pet in your new home, a great thing would be if you can spend little extra time with your pet. He needs to understand that this is their new home and start exploring it. Start walking them around the neighborhood, letting them sniff around. In a couple of weeks, they should be acclimated to their new space and be happy and active again.