10 Pointers for Pet Relocation

Moving with pets can be stressful for both you and your furry (or gilled, scaled, feathered, etc.) companion. As professional movers, we’ve moved it all. We’re here to help you, so you don’t have to sweat the small stuff. And that includes your Teacup Yorkie. Here are 10 pointers for smooth sailing with pets aboard your relocation journey. We do not recommend you sail, though. Pets relocate best via motor vehicle, which brings us to our first tip:

1.    If possible, take your pet with you in the car. 
Relocating can be confusing and scary for your pet. Eliminate unnecessary anxiety by accompanying your pet in transit. Condition your pet for the experience in advance by taking them along on car rides. If you’re relocating overseas or flying to your destination, pet air transportation is a safe alternative. Given the right amount of preparation, transporting your pet via airline isn’t as complicated as it seems. Research the airline requirements beforehand. Our partners, Air Animal Pet Movers, confront frequently asked questions here, to put your mind at ease before liftoff.   

2.    Mark your territory! 
Ensure your pet is equipped with proper collars and ID tags in case you get separated. List your name, your pet’s name, your current cellphone number, and your new address. Microchipping is highly recommended.

3.    Acquire a secure, well-ventilated pet carrier. 
For air travel, this is a must, as is making sure your crate of choice meets standards set by the U.S. Department of Agriculture and International Air Transport Association. If you allow your pet to roam freely in the vehicle, secure your pet with a leash or pet car seat. Yes, that’s a thing.

4.    Learn the laws of your new location. 
Leash laws are different from state to state, and not all rental agreements jive with pets. Don’t arrive without assurance that the whole family is welcome. Atlas Van Lines offers more information pertaining to this topic on the website. 

5.    Pack a doggie (or kitty, bunny, etc.) bag. 
Things you’ll need: pet food, water from your house, plenty of towels, treats, a leash for exercise, a few of your pet’s favorite toys, blankets for comfort, and your pet’s records. The anxiety induced from travel may not settle well with your pet’s digestive system. Reduce the risk of accidents by keeping food and water consistent. But be prepared for the worst. Hence the towels. If your pet is prone to motion sickness, visit your vet prior to relocating. As for the records, make a folder containing vaccination and medical records, microchip numbers, vet phone numbers, and a recent photo of your pet.

6.    If you’re traveling for multiple days, plan ahead for pet friendly lodging. 
Call hotels ahead of time or visit hotel websites to obtain this information.

7.    Make frequent stops for exercise and bathroom breaks. 
Pets grow restless and evermore anxious without proper exercise.

8.    Inspect your new home before releasing your pet. 
There may be hazards hidden throughout your new home, such as open windows, exposed crawl spaces, rodent traps or poisons, or toxic substances in toilets. If you have curious companions or obnoxious toilet drinkers, and you know it, take a walk-through.

9.    Allow your pet to exit its carrier at its own pace. 
Adapting to new surroundings takes time. Forcing your pet to join the outside world before it is ready could result in an unfavorable reaction. And wait until the movers have vacated before attempting release, for the sake of your pet and movers.

10.    Stay consistent with your pet’s old routine in the new home. 
Sameness will provide comfort during the transition period. 

For more tips on relocating with your pets, visit the Atlas Van Lines website.