Whether you’re moving across the country or just across town, moving with pets can be a challenge. Use this checklist to make sure you have everything you need to make the transition as smooth as possible for your four-legged family member. Keep reading for more tips on moving with pets.
Make packing for your pet
These days, we’re all trying to reduce our environmental impact. There are a few things pet owners can do to make moving their furry friends easier on the planet, starting with eco friendly pet food packaging. Another thing you can do is use a carrier or crate that can be reused or recycled. Choose biodegradable packing materials like cardboard or newspaper, and avoid using Styrofoam peanuts or other plastic foam products. Try to consolidate pet food and supplies into as few boxes as possible.
Get advice from professionals.
Moving with your pet can be daunting, especially if it’s a long-distance move, but you can always find help. Solomon & Sons Relocation is a professional moving company that helps people relocate with their pets. They have a checklist of things to do to make the move as smooth as possible for both the pet and the owner. Some of the items on the checklist include:
- Make sure your pet is up-to-date on vaccinations and has a clean bill of health from your veterinarian.
- Obtain copies of your pet’s medical records in case they need to be seen by a veterinarian during or after the move.
- Find a new veterinarian in your area and making appointments for routine care and checkups.
- Arrange for transport of your pet, either through air transport or ground transportation services.
- Make sure you have enough food, water, medicines, litter, etc., to last during the trip.
- Label all of your pet’s belongings with their name and contact information so they don’t get lost in transit.
Consider the mode of transportation.
Pets can be transported in a variety of ways, but each method has its own specific needs that must be met in order for the move to go smoothly. No matter how you travel, it is important to keep pets hydrated and fed. Pack a food and water supply for your pet that will last the length of the trip.
Things to keep in mind if your pet is traveling by car.
If your pet is traveling in the car, make sure they are secured in a carrier or seat belt harness. This will help prevent them from being injured if you have to brake suddenly or are in an accident. During hot weather, stop often to allow your pet to get out and exercise, drink some water, and use the bathroom. Pets can overheat quickly, so it is important to take precautions during summer travel. Be sure to take frequent breaks.
Things to keep in mind if your pet is traveling by plane.
If you’re flying, check with the airline about bringing your pet’s carrier as carry-on luggage. Make sure all contact information—including your new address—is printed on your pet’s carrier in case it gets lost during the move. For air travel, you want a sturdy carrier or crate that is large enough for the animal to stand up and turn around in comfortably, and a water dish and food bowl that are both securely attached to the carrier or crate. Make sure your animal has identification tags with current contact information, and pack any medications if needed
Overall, the checklist is an important tool to help ensure a safe move for pets. Use it as a guide to make sure that no steps are missed when transferring pets to a new home. And rest, assured, you can always hire a moving company to help you move your belongings and your pets whether it’s a local move or if you’re moving across state lines.
