Moving Your Animals

Pets, as part of the family, need time to adjust to the fact that you are moving. They will often show signs of stress throughout the process, so it is important that you get prepared as soon as you can. Pets need a little bit of extra time and effort to get through a move. It is not impossible to make it through relocation with your sanity still intact, but you need to get ready for what is coming well in advance. This is even more important if you have kids and pets.

Getting Ready

You need to prepare your pet by visiting the veterinarian. They will test your animal for any illnesses, and you will be able to get copies of all records. This is also your chance to make sure that the animal is up to date on all of their vaccines and will be legally allowed in their new home. Remember to ask your veterinarian for recommendations on a new doctor where you are moving to.

Pack your animals a travel box. This is an important part of your move because it will contain any important items or paperwork that you need to have with you. Make sure to include food, dishes, blankets, treats, a leash, and favorite toys in this box. You need to have everything available to take good care of your pet in this box.

Moving Day

Moving day is going to be hectic. You need to keep your pet away from most of the activity, so try and plan a place for him on this day. An empty room in the house is the perfect place to put him, but you can also place your pet in a fenced yard or even at a friend or family member’s house. If you do choose to use an empty room, make sure to mark the door so that the movers and moving help do not go in there. Many animals can get aggressive with people that they do not know, so for everyone’s safety, make sure that your pet is not disturbed.

Remember that you should never leave your pet inside a truck rental or car without you. A sitting car can get so hot that it can kill your pet, even with the windows cracked. In some states it is even illegal to leave pets in unattended cars. In the winter, this internal temperature may get warm or very cold. Don’t risk the health of your animal. Make sure that you take him with you and keep him wherever you are.

Most truck rentals will not allow pets inside the cab, so be sure that you find an alternative way for your pet to travel. You can ship animals by rail and air these days, so there are plenty of options available to you when you want to transport a pet. There is no reason to leave your family pets behind. A little bit of work and effort will allow you to move your pet in an organized manner.