While you are busy getting things in order for your big move, you can\u2019t overlook how this change can also affect Fido or Fluffy. It is important for you to take your pet\u2019s health into consideration and develop a plan of action that will make this move easy for all involved.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- Start planning early<\/a><\/li>
- How to keep your pets calm during your move<\/a><\/li>
- Pet proofing your home<\/a><\/li>
- Caring for your pet post-move<\/a><\/li>
- Pets and the pandemic<\/a><\/li>
- Animal anxiety: How to help your pet<\/a><\/li>
- The ultimate guide to moving with your cats<\/a><\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Are you moving states and want to know the regulations on pets? Check out our state-by-state guide<\/a>. Also, check out our tips on moving with dogs<\/a> in particular. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Start planning early<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.mymove.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/MM-Moving-with-Pets-Infographic-rebrand_0610.png\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nConsider the type of housing<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Take into consideration your pet\u2019s size, energy levels, and current lifestyle when selecting your new home, especially when moving with a dog. Larger animals need more space to run both inside your home and in the backyard, so a bigger home would best suit their needs and lifestyle. Smaller dogs and cats, however, can handle living with less space \u2014 like a small house or apartment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
If you\u2019re renting your new home, make sure the landlord allows animals. This can help you avoid issues later on. Trying to sneak in a pet is never a good idea and could lead to you getting kicked out (and not getting your security deposit back), which can be an extremely confusing time for both you and your animal.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Be honest with your landlord about your pets, their size, and their energy levels before signing a lease. You could even create a pet \u201cresume\u201d to help introduce your landlord to your animal and highlight their training certifications and vaccinations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Check out the neighborhood<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
If you\u2019re moving with a dog, chances are you\u2019ll be exploring the neighborhood on a pretty regular basis during walks. Because of this, it\u2019s smart to scope out the entire area you\u2019re considering, to make sure it\u2019s a good fit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
A few questions to ask yourself:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- Are there loose dogs or other animals who might bother your pup?<\/li>
- Are the nearby roads busy or dangerous?<\/li>
- Are there any close, walkable parks or areas for your dog to run?<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
When you\u2019re moving with pets, taking the safety of your new neighborhood into account can help ensure a happy home for your animals and give you some peace of mind as well..<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Find a nearby veterinarian and animal hospital<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
If you\u2019re moving far away from your current home, finding a vet and animal hospital in your new area is crucial. A stressed-out dog might chew on (and swallow) something they aren\u2019t supposed to, so it\u2019s important to have the address and phone number of an emergency vet on hand, so your pet doesn\u2019t experience any long-term injuries.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Keep important documents on hand<\/b><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Before you begin moving, contact your current veterinarian to get a copy of your pet\u2019s medical records and vaccinations. This will prevent any travel issues from occurring (especially if you\u2019re flying). While electronic copies are a great eco-friendly alternative, some airlines and countries prefer physical records, so having both options on-hand is your best bet.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Microchipping<\/a> your pet before the move is another good idea, as it can help make sure they get sent home if they happen to wander off. If your animal is already microchipped, make sure to update the information with your new address so that your pet can be returned to the proper location.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Introduce their pet carrier early<\/b><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Set up their crate a few days before the move to let your animal sniff around and lay inside of it while still in a familiar environment. This will help reduce day-of stress and get your animal more accustomed to being crated when moving time comes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
On especially long trips, adding in their favorite blankets and toys can help further this familiar feeling, which makes a move a little less intense.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Consider a pet mover<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Pet movers specialize in moving animals in a comfortable environment with access to water, food, and potty breaks. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
- Blue Collar Pet Transport:<\/a> This pet transportation company offers several options to help get your pet to your destination safely. They include shared or private ground rides, escorted air, or private jet. If you need your vehicle moved as well, they will use it to transport your pet in, so both get to your new home.<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
- Pet Airways:<\/a> This is a private airway for pet-only delivery. Your pet is safely crated and looked after by on-board pet attendants. <\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
- Air Animal:<\/a> A family-owned pet relocation business, the company provides national and international pet moving services. They offer VIP and economy \u201cpet moving options using commercial airlines and their live animal moving products.\u201d<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
- Animal Land Pet Movers:<\/a> This company has offices on five continents and offers a personal pet move counselor who handles all the commercial flight planning, makes sure all paperwork is completed, necessary shots are in place, etc. <\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
- Capital Pet Movers:<\/a> Operating out of Virginia and Maryland, Capital Pet Movers provides domestic, international, and military moving services via plane, as well as a pet taxi for over-land deliveries. <\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
How to keep your pets calm during your move<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Moving is a lot of hard work, especially if you\u2019re moving long distances or have a lot of pets to take into consideration. But by prioritizing the happiness of your pet, you can make moving day a bit easier for everyone. Plus, it allows your pet to join in on the excitement of the first night in a new place.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Consider a pet sitter<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
To make things easier on you and your pet, hire a pet sitter, or take them to a familiar daycare center on Moving Day. While this might not work for long-distance or moving across the country with pets, it\u2019s a great option for stressed-out animals that might start to exhibit anxious and destructive behavior when they see their home getting packed up. Plus, it frees you up to focus on the move without having to worry about your four-legged friend getting out or having an accident.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Get plenty of exercise<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
If a pet sitter isn\u2019t an option, make sure to get your pet plenty of exercise, so they\u2019re calmer throughout the day. An early morning run or a trip to the dog park should do the trick and help ease their anxiety. Setting aside playtime with your cat can help them feel on track with their familiar routine.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
For older dogs or cats who aren\u2019t prone to exercising, introduce a brand new toy or treat on Moving Day. This can help distract them for a while and reduce their stress levels.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Let them travel with you<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Separation anxiety is a big issue for most animals, as they don\u2019t understand the concept of moving and can get worried you\u2019re going to leave them behind. Letting them travel near you, rather than shipping them or storing them with the suitcases on a plane, can significantly improve their behavior and bring them comfort during what could be a traumatizing time. When they\u2019re with you, talk to them frequently in a calming voice and reward them with treats, attention, and well-loved toys to make sure they stay calm no matter what.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Traveling long distances<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Putting your beloved pet on an airplane can be a scary experience if you don\u2019t know what to expect. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
First, talk to your pet\u2019s veterinarian. Is your animal healthy enough to fly? Short-nosed dogs have trouble with airflow and breathing, for example. Your pet may be ill, older, or overweight. There are many factors to consider when deciding if the flight is too much of a risk. Some breeds are not allowed to fly<\/a> on any commercial flights and bans include bulldogs, pit bulls, and mastiffs, among others. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Your vet will most likely let you know that tranquilizers are not recommended for pets during flight because the animal can\u2019t control its body temperature at altitude. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
This is a stressful time for you and your pet, so make sure you are calm around the animal, help them get used to their travel kennel while you are still at home, and consider providing chew toys and \u201caccident\u201d pads in the kennel for the flight. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Know that your pet will fly as \u201cbaggage\u201d in the airplane\u2019s hold if you are on the flight as well. If you are not, the pet is listed as \u201ccargo.\u201d The hold is temperature-controlled and pressurized. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Unfortunately, you can\u2019t purchase a seat for your pet on any major airline. However, most will allow you to bring your small dog or cat with you if they and their carrier can fit comfortably under your seat. Your best bet is to confirm the requirements and rules ahead of booking your flight. Emotional support animals are no longer allowed out of their crates during flights, but certified service animals are.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
If you\u2019re concerned about your pet\u2019s flight, check petflight.com<\/a> for monthly incident reports and information on specific airlines. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Make their first night fun<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
It\u2019s very important to establish a routine and create positive memories as soon as possible. The first night in your home can make or break your pet\u2019s ability to get comfortable in their new surroundings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Spend plenty of time with your pet in every room. Play games and lavish your pet with attention \u2014 this will help them connect positive memories with every room. Although most things they know and love might be packed away, an overnight bag filled with their favorite toys, blankets, and treats can help them feel comfortable on that first night.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Pet proofing your home<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
The goal of pet-proofing your home is to keep you, your pet, and your home safe. This is especially important in a new home where they may be new carpet or hardwood floors, fresh paint on the walls, or various hazards that can result in your pet being injured or worse. While each room in your home may seem hazard-free, you still want to pet-proof to ensure there are no accidents.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.mymove.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/MM-Moving-with-Pets-Household-Dangers-for-Pet_0610.png\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nKitchen<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
The kitchen has just as many hazards, possibly more than any room in the home. Between food, garbage, and cleaning products, your pet could easily get into some trouble. To ensure your kitchen is a safe space for your pet, store cleaning products where your animal can’t reach, keep trash cans in a cabinet with a childproof latch, and avoid leaving food in an easily accessible location.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Living room<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Next to the kitchen, you’ll likely spend a lot of time in the living room. If you want your pet to enjoy this space just as much as you do, be sure you eliminate hazards that can make your living room unsafe for your pet. Fireplaces, electrical wires and cords, and plants can be hazardous to pets. You can keep this area safe by placing a protective screen in front of your fireplace, tucking away or hiding electrical wires and cords, and removing plants that are poisonous to your pet<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- Capital Pet Movers:<\/a> Operating out of Virginia and Maryland, Capital Pet Movers provides domestic, international, and military moving services via plane, as well as a pet taxi for over-land deliveries. <\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
- Animal Land Pet Movers:<\/a> This company has offices on five continents and offers a personal pet move counselor who handles all the commercial flight planning, makes sure all paperwork is completed, necessary shots are in place, etc. <\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
- Air Animal:<\/a> A family-owned pet relocation business, the company provides national and international pet moving services. They offer VIP and economy \u201cpet moving options using commercial airlines and their live animal moving products.\u201d<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
- Pet Airways:<\/a> This is a private airway for pet-only delivery. Your pet is safely crated and looked after by on-board pet attendants. <\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
- Blue Collar Pet Transport:<\/a> This pet transportation company offers several options to help get your pet to your destination safely. They include shared or private ground rides, escorted air, or private jet. If you need your vehicle moved as well, they will use it to transport your pet in, so both get to your new home.<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
- How to keep your pets calm during your move<\/a><\/li>
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.mymove.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/MM-Moving-with-Pets-Signs-of-Animal-Anxiety_0610-Full.png\")
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