Relocating with Your Pet

Is it possible to plan cross-country moving with your pet? Of course! When moving, FiFi and Fido may complicate things, but they are definitely worth it.

First, you need to be aware that the chaos that sweeps though a home leading up to moving day creates anxiety for both people and pets. Dealing with moving companies, real estate agents and insurance brokers can make things a little hectic. A little advance planning can make a world of difference.

Two Weeks Out
Just like you need to gather the family's doctor and dental records, you need to do the same for the pooch. Make a trip to the vet, even if it’s not time for an annual check up. Double check that all vaccinations are up to date, get a copy of the records and see about any tummy medicine or sedatives your pal might need for the long trip ahead.

While you're there, see if your current vet knows a good vet in your destination city. You never know.

Next, gather all necessary pet supplies and pack them in one bag that can travel with you. You’ll need a collar and leash, vaccination records, photos of your pet (in case there is an escape), food, water, treats, toys and cleaning supplies in case of uh-ohs on the go. In addition, be sure your buddy has proper collar tags that have your cell phone number as a contact since your home phone will no longer be active.

Moving Day
Make sure you clean all moving boxes and furniture out of one room of your home so that the movers do not have to enter this room. You can use this room as a safe haven for your pet while all the moving is taking place. Be sure to tape a big, colorful sign to the door explaining that no one is to go in. Feed your pet several hours before you depart, and take the dogs for a walk before you start the trip.

Road Trip!
It is important to remember that this is more than a trip to the beach. Stuffing the dogs in the back seat just won’t do. You need to create a place for your dog to ride safely for however many miles you are traveling. Many dogs enjoy being able to see out the window and, when possible, have some contact with you. There are lots of dog car seats and seat belts out there, so look into getting one of those. Cats will need to be crated, unless you want to be picking the cat off the back of your head for 2000 miles.

For long-distance moving, you will need to bring along a crate or carrier for each pet as many hotels will not allow pets to stay in rooms unattended unless contained. Be sure to pack a litter box for kitty.

Make sure your air conditioning is working properly and that you use it while driving in warm climates. Always have your pet in the passenger portion of a vehicle, not in the trunk, the bed of a pickup or the back of a moving truck.

There are many pet-friendly hotels out there and several websites to help you find them. Some hotels charge a pet fee, and many have rules about not leaving pets unattended in your room.

Traveling by air
When using a car shipping service and flying to your new home, a little more planning is involved. On flights that are less than six hours, most airlines will allow small pets to be taken along in the cabin. You will need an airline-approved carrier with a waterproof bottom that fits under the seat in front of you.

When on the security line, you will need to take the pet out of the carrier so that it (just the carrier!) can be run through the X-ray. That cute Yorkie might love to come out and say hello to everyone, but your cat might not be so keen on the idea. Request to be taken to a closed room before you remove kitty from the carrier, so if he/she bolts, he/she won’t get far.

Plan ahead for delays by packing a small cardboard litter box and small plastic bag of cat litter. If you get stuck in the airport, take kitty into a restroom or other confined space to set up the box.

If you are traveling with large animals, know that most airlines accept pets as cargo and will have made special provisions for their handling. Though the cargo hold is pressurized and temperature controlled, some airlines require special health certificates or may cease carrying animals during times of extreme temperatures. Check with your airline in advance to learn about their specific requirements.

Arriving at your new home
Yay! You made it! Once again, you’re going to need to find a room that the moving company does not need to enter and use it as a safety zone. Make sure that you take your pet on a tour of the new digs, showing them where to find food, water and a place to go potty. Expect some mistakes in the first couple of days, but any problems should disappear as your best friend gets used to his/her surroundings.