Moving with Your Pets

Moving your personal effects and furniture can be stressful in itself. But many of us also have animals. Moving an animal can be a big hassle or headache if you're not sure which steps to take, and can also be very detrimental to the health of your pet. By following some of the basic tips outlined in the following article, you can help prevent a lot of un-needed stress for both yourself and your pet.

One of the biggest questions on anyone's mind when preparing to move a pet over a long distance is whether to transport by air or cross-country. If you have used a professional mover to move your other possessions you might consider asking them if they recommend a professional pet transporter. They can usually take care of everything between picking your pet up, to dropping it off at the new location. If you want to save the extra cost of hiring a professional pet transporter, or perhaps be more involved in the moving of your beloved pet, you can consider some tips when transporting your pet.
  • Never sedate your pet for air travel.
  • Try to keep a regular routine for your pet as much as possible until right before they are transported.
  • Always visit your pet's veterinarian at least 30 days prior to moving.
  • Pack your pets necessities in a separate container from the rest, just like you would for yourself.
Never consider sedating your pet, especially for air travel. Sedating your pet for air travel can have unpredictable effects on the health of your pet due to the changes in elevation and pressure. Make sure to pack your pet's necessities in a separate container just as you would for yourself. That way you always have a bag or kit readily available with your pet's necessities such as its normal food, medication, or grooming supplies.

Animals are very intuitive when it comes to changes in the environment or the general mood of people. While preparing for your move make sure to keep as close to possible as you can to your pet's regular routine. If you regularly take your dog on a walk every morning, make sure to make time on the morning of the move to walk your dog. Try to keep your pet's diet consistent along the move as well. A common misconception is to treat your pets with special food and treats while traveling to reduce their stress. This can actually do more bad than good. Upsetting your pet's diet can sometimes induce things such as diarrhea and vomiting.

One of the most important steps while preparing to move your pet is to make a visit to your veterinarian for a health checkup. Not only do airlines require some kind of health documentation no older than 30 days before releasing your pet for travel, but this also gives you the chance to ask your veterinarian for any extra advice in preparing your pet for the move. Airlines also require your pet be kenneled for transport. The kennel must have sufficient room for your pet to stand up, turn around, and lay down comfortably. Make sure there are plenty of air vents in the kennel. It also must have a latch on the door that doesn't require any special tools to be opened and closed.

Regardless of how you decide to transport your pet when moving, plan ahead and prepare your pet for the transition. Animals are very delicate to quick changes. But if you take the necessary precautions beforehand, this will be much less stressful for both the owner and their beloved pet.