How to Move With Pets

Everyone loves their pets. Whether you have a dog, cat, reptile, bird, fish or something else, facing a move can be stressful as a pet owner because you may worry how they will handle the transition. Just like moving with small children, a move can be disruptive to pets in ways you may not realize.

They get stressed too – not just from the move itself but from the residual effects of learning the layout of a new home. Being patient with them and understanding their unique needs during the relocation can make all the difference.

Plus, you have to consider that your pets, especially dogs, can sense your stress and will internalize it if you let it get out of control. So try to be calm and hopefully Fido will calm down too.

But first things first: you need to hire Hurst movers you can trust with a move involving pets. While movers can’t put your pets on the truck with them like your furniture and boxes, they can transport all their equipment and supplies.

Considerations

There are many factors that come into play when it comes to how you will actually transport your pet. For short local moves, you can bring your pet with you in your own car. For long-distance moves across the country, there are many additional challenges involved that can increase the stress and agitation for them. Here’s what to consider:

• Car Travel – While many dogs love a fun ride in the car to the park, others may experience anxiety while riding in a car. If the latter describes your pet, start early so you can prepare them for what’s to come. In the weeks before the move, take them on several short trips around the neighborhood so they can adjust to the sounds, movements and new environments they will be subjected to later.
• Identification – Moving Day is busy for all involved, and the last thing you want is for Fluffy to get confused or scared and take off down the block, prompting you to go find her in a panic. Your pet should be equipped with the proper identification, such as chips or collars. Their rabies vaccinations should also be up to date.
• Travel Kit – Throughout the move, you’ll still have to continue providing your pet with their favorite treats, meals, medications and water. Pack a box or bag with the basics in your car, as well as a doggie bed, blanket, leash, and toys.
• Portable Kennel – Small pets such as rabbits and cats can be transported in a portable carrier during the car ride. This will help keep them contained so they don’t run off when you stop for gas or order fast food.

Following the above tips will ensure your pet will make the trip unscathed and safely acclimate to their new home. Also, it’s a good idea to alert your movers of any special equipment you may need moved for your pet, such as fish tanks and cat condos. This will help prepare them for what supplies to bring or how much room to leave in the truck.

Now, because most people moving with pets have a dog, we’ll drill down a bit and go over some tips for moving with your small or large dogs.

Moving With Dogs

While there is some uncertainty when it comes to moving with cats, birds or lizards, they tend to be fairly easy to contain. Dogs are a whole different story. Here’s how to handle it.

1.     Research the Community

Look into the breed-specific legislation your new city may have before you make the move with your dog. It’s possible that you will have to spay or neuter them to comply with local laws. If you’re moving into an HOA, they may not be allowed in your condo at all. That said, some condos have a weight limit on dogs, i.e., with those under 30 pounds being acceptable. The key to avoiding unpleasant surprises is to plan it all out beforehand and ask the right questions.

2.     Gather Vet Records

Before leaving for your move, call and obtain your dog’s records from the vet. You may want to ask about a sleep med prescription if they tend to get anxious in the car or have motion sickness. Ask your current vet for recommendations on a new vet in the new city if you haven’t done that already. Make an appointment for the first week in the new digs so there’s no gap in coverage.

3.     Pack the Essentials

Your dog needs the creature comforts of home, available when they need it. This is why you should pack an essentials box or bag complete with their favorite meals and treats, grooming tools, a leash, toys, waste bags and cleaning supplies. Include at least a couple of days of essentials.

4.     Update the Tag

Your dog’s tag information should be current, and should include your new address and new phone number. If you have been meaning to get your dog microchipped, do it before you move. If your dog is already microchipped, update the information.

5.     Secure Your Dog

During Moving Day, it’s important to make sure your dog is safe and properly supervised. Put them in a separate room (i.e., basement or quiet guest room) with bedding, treats and water. Check on them frequently and keep the temperature comfortable. Better yet, ask someone you trust to pet sit for the day or board them at a kennel.

Contact Luke’s Moving Services

Here at Luke’s, we specialize in all kinds of moves. While we can’t put your actual pets in our trucks, we certainly can move their equipment and gear. To learn more, contact us at 817-835-7038 for a free quote or fill out our online estimate form.