On average Americans move every 7 years and the lifespan of a pet may be
10- 20 years. It is highly likely that during your pet's lifetime you
will move or relocate. If you have a pet or pets as part of your family
you will need to remember that they are just like people in that they
get as stressed out as we do when moving. In fact in many instances they
may be more stressed as the home is generally their habitat both day and
night and pets are very sensitive to a change in their habitat. Pets can
also become very frightened when faced with unfamiliar situations. With
careful organization and planning the move process can be made easier
and less stressful for both you and your pet.
General Guidelines
Pets are generally creatures of habit so keep your pets' routines as
regular as possible in the days coming up to your move date. Continue to
carry out normal activities and try not to break your pets routine too
much, for example if you walk your dog each morning continue to do so.
It is a good idea to ask a family member to assume responsibility for
your pet during the days of the move. If this is not possible you might
consider hiring a professional pet service for the day or couple of days
you will be packing and moving. These pet services have cropped up all
over US and are available in many cities and towns. Some of these
companies even offer door to door service. Your pet can be picked up at
your home and will be delivered to your new home on a predetermined
date. Many pets become very scared and may bolt and run away during all
of this irregular activity. Be careful with leaving doors open as it
only takes one door to be left open to the outside unintentionally and
your pet could be gone forever. If your pet bolts on moving day, you may
not be able to give the necessary attention and time to the search as
you should and you may have travel plans which limits the time you can
search. Another option that may be helpful is to organize for your pet
to be boarded until you have moved in to your new home and arranged
things.
Pet travel warning
Never move a sick pet, the move may aggravate the symptoms and this
may be dangerous to your pet's health.
Puppies and kittens less than eight weeks old whether accompanied or unaccompanied cannot be transported by air as per the Animal Welfare Act.
Pets cannot be moved on a moving van with your household belongings.
Pets are generally not allowed on trains or buses except seeing-eye dogs accompanying blind persons.
Book a direct flight if you are traveling by plane. If your pet is
traveling in freight he may be sitting outside with the freight for a
long period of time between flights and as the freight is being moved
from plane to plane. If the weather is either too hot or too cold your
pet may suffer. An insulated crate will certainly help this situation if
it cannot be avoided.
In short you may not have too many options available to you to transport
your pet other than by air and motor vehicle.
Air Transport
You may transport your pet by air either accompanying you or as air
freight. Some airlines provide counter-to-counter service so your pet
will be carried on and off the plane by an airline employee. Remember
not all airlines accept pets for transportation so be sure to inquire
when you are making your travel arrangements. Also be sure to check
about charges and insurance charges for transporting your pet.
It is of the utmost importance that you book your air travel as early as
possible. Airlines that accept pets for transportation will have
specific regulations and guidelines you will need to follow irrespective
of whether the pets are accompanied or unaccompanied. For example you
may be required to be at the airport a couple of hours in advance of the
flight to check your pet in and your pet may need a special crate. The
airline may be able to provide to you a crate for your use or you may
have to purchase one from the airline.
Generally the airline will have guidelines on the crate types allowed
and your local pet supply company will be able to sell you the required
crate. You pet should be able to stand, turn around with ease and there
should be adequate ventilation. The bottom of the crate should be padded
with newspaper or other absorbent material. Add a favorite toy on move
day to give a sense of security. Try to slowly get your pet accustomed
to the crate at home before the big day.
On move day, feed and water your pet at least 5 hrs before the flight
departure time and water again at least 2 hours before departure.
Remember to administer any medication and if your vet has recommended a
tranquilizer before departure be sure not to forget. When you arrive at
the airport exercise your pet and check you have all the necessary
information provided to the airline staff regarding your name, correct
new address and alternate name in case of emergency.
Some airlines allow pets to be accompanied by their owners in the cabin
with the passengers if they fall within a specific size range. These
pets will need to be kept in a carrier for the duration of the flight.
By road In a motor vehicle
Unless you are planning a very short road trip do not feed or water your
pet for a couple of hours prior to leaving. You may decide to put your
pet in a cage during the road trip however be sure your pet is able to
stand and turn around with ease and there should be adequate
ventilation. The bottom of the crate should be padded with newspaper or
other absorbent material. Add a favorite toy on move day to give a sense
of security. Exercise your pet regularly during the road trip and feed
only once per day. Whilst exercising always use a leash. Remember this
is strange territory to your furry friend and it can easily become lost
if it wanders off.
Do not let your pet hang its head out the window while the vehicle is in
motion. He may get sore eyes, ears or a sore throat and never let the
windows down so much so your pet can jump out.
Warning
Never leave a pet in a hot car during the summer time or in a cold car
in the winter. If you absolutely have to and the day is hot, park in the
shade, lock the car doors and crack the windows open for
cross-ventilation. If the day is very hot, it is best not to leave pet
in the car at all. Check on your pet regularly if you must leave it
alone for very long.
Pets travel bag
When doing all that packing do not forget to pack your pets travel bag.
The following is a list of things to include.
Whatever mode of transport you decide on for your pet you will need to
ensure you have looked in to the following prior to departure.
Pets ID tags
The state you are moving to may have different laws regarding animals
and indeed may have special regulations around the entry of pets to the
state. It is important that you understand the requirements so that you
can comply with them. It is recommended you contact the state
veterinarian of your new home state to find out what the laws and
regulations are in that state. It is not uncommon for pets to need an
entry permit in order to enter the state. Remember, in many towns and
cities the number of pets per household may be limited. You may also be
limited by the amount of time you have in order to obtain a local
license.
You will most likely have to have a health cert for your pet available
for inspection. This health cert needs to come from a licensed
veterinarian. The Department of Agriculture is the body who may conduct
any inspections and may be at airports or even on highways although this
is not as common.
Health
You may need to obtain a health cert for your pet and this can be used
in the event it is required for entry to your new home state. The
Department of Agriculture may request to see the health cert at your
destination airport or may even be patrolling the highways if you are
driving. A health cert is generally valid for 10 days so be sure to have
the inspection scheduled for just before you move. A complete physical
examination is conducted on your pet and the vet check that all
inoculations have been administered especially the rabies vaccination.
Dogs
Whether traveling by air or car moving can be even more stressful for a
dog than a human. Some dogs however take it more in their stride than
others. Leave packing his/her toys, bedding and other equipment to the
last moment so that he/she is comforted by the presence of familiar
things. If traveling a long way prevent travel sickness by not feeding
them for 12 hours before the journey. If you know your pet suffers from
travel sickness, ask your veterinary surgeon about anti-sickness pills.
If you plan on flying to your new home, try and book a direct flight. If
your dog has to be transported by freight and the flight is not direct
he may have to sit out in the hot or cold weather as the freight is
boarded to the new flight. Check with the airlines for details. If your
dog is small enough he may be able to travel in the passenger cabin with
you. He will need a special carrier which you can purchase at a local
pet sore. The airlines will be able to provide you with details of the
cage specification that you will need.
If you are traveling by car remember to have your dogs nails cut prior
to the road trip otherwise the upholstery may be damaged by scraping and
scratching. Carry an adequate supply of plastic bags and use these to
clean up after your pet at any rest stops you use. Never let your dog
hang its head out the widow of a car as he may get sore eyes, ears or a
sore throat.
Never leave your pet alone in a car especially in hot weather as the
temperature can quickly rise to an unbearable level.
When you arrive at your destination be sure to get your dog back in to
his routine of eating and exercise. If you have moved to an apartment
building and your pet dog was used to having a yard to play in and
relieve in, you need to be extra considerate. Bring you dog out more at
least until he gets used to his new living situation. Make allowances
for 'accidents' on the carpet if they should happen. Don't make a fuss
or punish your pooch as this may make the problem worse. Pick up the
mess and clean the area properly to remove the soil and smell. Once your
dog has settled in they should stop. Always praise him when he goes to
toilet in the correct place so that he knows where to go.
Make sure you make up a comfortable sleeping are area your pet pooch so
he settle in quicker. If you have a new home with a yard make sure you
check your boundary fencing to make sure that it is secure, of
sufficient height and 'hole-free' before letting your dog run free in
the garden. If your dog is able to escape then take him out on a lead
until you are able to do the necessary improvements.
Cats
Cats are well known for being mischievous and can be even more
troublesome during moving. Cats like routine and their environment to
remain the same and they also like to be in control. When their routine
or their environment changes they can feel very out of control and
become very upset. In the days coming up to your move try to keep their
routine as normal as possible. It may be of help to ask a friend or
family member to keep an eye on your cat or to be solely responsible for
your cat during these disruptive times. This can ensure your cats
routine can be kept relatively normal. When you move to your new
location do not allow your cat out immediately as the environment is
new. Some supervised outings are advised at first until such time as he
gets used to the new surroundings. You can also use a long leash on your
cat and connect it to a stake in the ground and allow your cat to wander
the length of the leash for the first few days. Allow your cat to
explore the rooms of the house and be sure to check that outside doors
and windows are closed before you begin.
If you are traveling by air you may need to purchase an airline approved
carrier for you cat. You airline should be able to provide you with all
the details. If you are traveling by car you may also want to use a
carrier so as your cat cannot roam about the car.
Birds and small pets
Birds are probably the most sensitive to changes in temperature of all
pets. Your pet bird can be moved in the cage in which it lives in. When
you are moving with your pet bird a cover for the cage is recommended.
This can keep the bird calm and can help keep drafts out however be sure
to place the cage in a location in the car that has adequate
ventilation. Be sure to remove any containers of food and water before
moving the cage so as to avoid any spills en route. Do feed and water
your bird at it regular times as all small animals can birds can get
dehydrated very quickly in warm weather.
Some states require a health cert for birds entering the state. The USDA
may inspect this cert either at the airport or during routine roadway
inspections. Have your pet bird inspected by your veterinarian prior to
traveling. Some health certificates are valid for a period of time only,
10 days is common and you must travel with you pet within this period of
time.
Horses
There are several ways to transport horses. Your horse can be
transported by air freight, by towing or by a specialized horse
transporting company. The horse transport company can use either air or
road to transport horses.
By Air
Many airlines accept horses as air freight. Generally they will only
transport horses on direct flights only however check with the airline.
You will be required to have a stall constructed to the airline
specification requirements. You will need to ensure your horse has the
necessary health checks completed prior to moving to your new home
state. Remember states differ in requirements and the airlines will
request to see the health certificates. The USDA may also be at the
destination airport conducting inspections and may request to see the
health certificates.
By Road
Depending on the distance you need to travel, towing your horse in a
trailer behind your motor vehicle may be an option. If you do not have a
trailer you can consider renting one. You can also pack up tack and feed
in the trailer. If you are not experienced in driving with a trailer
this may not be advisable. If your trip requires you to have overnight
stays you will need to book stables for your horse. These stables will
require a health certificates appropriate to horses only and if they do
not it is suggested you do not board your horse there. Your veterinarian
may know the applicable laws of the different states and will be able to
provide you with the necessary health certificates. Contact information
regarding states entry requirements is at eh end of this guide. If you
are unable to find a stable or lodgings for your horse in close
proximity to your hotel, the hotel may allow you to keep the trailer in
the parking lot overnight. In inclement weather this is not advisable.
Feed and water your horse per the normal routine and clean out the stall
when you have an overnight stop.
If you decide to use a horse transporting company be sure they are
registered with the Interstate Commerce. You should also take out extra
insurance as insurance is generally covered only to a minimum. This can
be a very stress free way of moving your horse from state to state
however it comes at a price.
Reptiles
There are strict government regulations regarding the entry of reptiles
in to most states. See the states regulatory contact list at the end of
this guide to find out what you need to do before moving your reptile
from state to state.
As a general rule of thumb the carrier that a reptile is transported in
needs to be kept moist. Place the reptile in a cloth bag and tie the top
of the bag giving the reptile enough room to move about, place the bag
in the shipping container. Use foam peanuts as cushioning and support
and dampen some paper and place in the shipper to keep environment
moist. Make sure there are air holes in the shipper for ventilation. If
you are traveling overnight with your reptile you may need to place him
in the tub of your hotel room at night for a nice long soak. Check if
the hotel allows pets first.
Do not ship reptiles in hot or cold weather as they may be left outside
for periods of time in the shipping container in the inclement weather.
Snakes must be handled with extra care especially if they are venomous.
It is required by most airlines to have the snakes double crated. This
means putting the snake in a crate and then placing this crate in
another larger crate. Be sure there is adequate ventilation. The airline
may provide you with stickers to put on all sides of the crate and you
will need to write the type of snake on this label. You should also
write on the sticker whether the snake is venomous or not on this.
Warning
Remember to keep the surroundings of all reptiles moist but not wet. Use
a damp cloth and place inside the container is one of the best ways to
do this.
Fish
Fish are notoriously difficult to move form one location to another
however it can be done effectively and efficiently with some planning.
It is advisable to sell as many of the fish as you can before you move
to help ease the burden however if this is not an option this guide will
help you understand what you need to do.
Depending on the size of your aquarium and the number and type of fish
you have it may be easier to break them down to a couple of tanks. If
the aquarium is 5 gallons or less it may be just as easy to move the
entire aquarium. Place some cellophane over the top of the aquarium and
remove and heaters and aerators. Place this container in a cooler box or
Styrofoam container to regulate the temperature. This should keep the
temperature constant for up to 48 hours. Ensure every 4- 5 hours to open
up the cellophane to change the air. This option may be the best for
tropical fish that may not do well in smaller containers with
overcrowding or indeed sudden changes in water and temperature. Never
leave this container in the car overnight as the temperature changes may
be too drastic for the fish. If you plan to be traveling to your
destination for a couple of days with your fish it is advisable to
purchase a portable aerator to keep the water well oxygenated. Always
pack your aquarium last in the moving truck so you can set it up quickly
when you arrive at your destination.
Depending on the size or your aquarium you may need to break down the
dish in to a number of smaller containers or fish bags. If you can you
should use the water from the aquarium if you choose this method. In the
event you do not have enough water for all the smaller use fresh or
saltwater depending to the type of fish you have. It is advisable to
fill the container with appropriate water and allow the water to settle
for a few hours and empty and refill. Do this a couple of times and to
leach any impurities out of the container material. If you have only a
small number of fish and are moving only a short driving distance, you
can move the fish to their new location by using plastic bags half
filled with water and the other half with air. As a general guideline
each fish should have at least 1-2 gallons of water. To maintain the
temperature place the bags in an insulated container or Styrofoam
container.
Most fish can go without food for a couple of days with no bad reaction.
It is important to put healing agents in to the water
As the fish may become bruised en route .This is not uncommon and you
can purchase healing agents at your local pet supply store.
When you arrive at your destination set up the aquarium as quickly as
possible. You may need to add water neutralizers to the water to
neutralize any chemicals. Your local pet store can advise you of any
treatments the water may need.
Turn the aerator on for a while before adding the fish one at a time.
Slowly and gently add the fish to the filled tank. Wait until the water
settles and feed as usual.
Small Creatures
Most small animals and mammals can be moved in their cages. These
include guinea pigs, gerbils and mice. Do not place in a draughty
location in the car however as adequate ventilation is necessary. Remove
any water bottles so they do not spill and line the bottom of the age
with newspapers. At rest stops you may can feed and water your pet as
usual. Do not park in direct sunlight and do not let the car become too
hot or cold .Generally small critters like the same temperatures as
humans so what is hot or cold for you is hot or cold for your pet.
New community
PLEASE, PLEASE be responsible when you move and check beforehand with
your new community to find out if pets are allowed. Some apartment and
condominium complexes may not allow pets and if they do not then do not
move there.
Some of the most common reasons people leave their pets with shelters
are 'we are moving' and 'my landlord will not allow pets'. Your pet is
part of your family and they can become very anxious and stressed if
they are being left behind in a shelter. Pets do not know why their
owners are leaving them behind so do your homework beforehand to save
all that heartbreak.
State and local regulations
You need to ensure your pet has some sort of easily read ID attached to
its body. For dogs and cats this can be a collar and for birds a tags
around the leg is appropriate. At the very least the ID tags should have
your pet's name, destination address, your name and telephone number. It
is also a good idea to have an alternates name and number on the tags in
the event somebody finds your lost pet and is unable to get in contact
with you. You should also have rabies tags for your pet and depending on
the state you live in this will most likely be a requirement. For travel
your pet may be required to wear special travel which the airline will
provide.