Moving Pets
As you and your roommates prepare for a move, make sure you have covered all the bases including the safe and comfortable move of any pets. There are several steps that can be taken by you and your roommates to make the move less stressful for pets. This guide will help make your pet's transition into a new home much easier.
Find out the facts
You and your roommates should do some research once you’ve decided where you are going to move. Many localities have specific requirements, and/or restrictions, for pet owners. You and your roommates may need to obtain permits or registrations.
You, or one of your roommates, should schedule a visit and check-up with your veterinarian before the move. If you are switching vets, you should obtain your pet’s veterinary records for the new veterinarian.
Local Moves
For a local move, you and your roommates are probably best off transporting your pet in a car on the day of the move. The main thing for you and your roommates to focus on is the pet’s comfort and safety. At the new home, try to keep your pet in a room that isn’t being used, or outside if the weather permits. Obviously, you and your roommates should provide fresh food, water, and any toys to help comfort your pet.
Car Moves
When you and your roommates are moving pets by car, understand that many pets find car travel extremely distressful and may become car-sick. You and your roommates should prepare to for frequent stops along the way to let larger animals out of the car for bathroom breaks and fresh air. Smaller pets may be easier to transport, but you should still cover their cages, or aquariums with a cloth to help keep them calm during the trip. If you are making an overnight stop for longer distance moves, you, or one of your roommates, should contact the hotel, or place your staying, to make sure that your pets will be allowed to stay with you.
Moving Fish
Before moving fish, you, or your roommate, should stop by the local pet shop and buy special fish containers used to transport your pets safely. The pet shop may even offer special suggestions for specific types of fish.
Packing for your Pet
When you and your roommates are moving a pet by car, there are several things to take with you on the day of the move:
- Any medications that your pet may need.
- A leash for rest stops with your pet.
- Paper towels, a sponge, and plenty of plastic bags in case your pet gets sick during the trip.
- An old bed sheet/blanket to protect car upholstery.
- A favorite toy and an old T-shirt with your scent on it.
- Two containers for fresh water and food
Pet Transport
If you and your roommates are trying to move a larger pet over a long distance, you may want to consider a pet transporter service. A proper pet transporter will organize every aspect of your pets move allowing you and your roommates to focus on your move. Pet transporter services may include the following:
- Practical advice to prepare your pet for the trip
- Details about requirements, and/or restrictions for pet ownership in your new city
- Pet pickup from the airport
- Pet boarding until you arrive at your new home
- Pet delivery to your new home.
Other things for you and your roommates to consider:
- Always take your dog for a long walk before the trip.
- Advise your pet transporter of any specific requirements for your pet.
- Keep your cat indoors for at least 24 hours at your new home.
- Do not overfeed your pet before the trip.
- Do not sedate your pet unless it is absolutely necessary
- Prepare a “pet resume” for your new landlords to get to know your pet
- Obtain a new pet ID tag with your new address and contact information
Air transport for your pets
If you and your roommates are sending your pet by air, make sure you have a recent health certificate from your veterinarian, and a pet carrier that complies with airline regulations. Also, confirm all rules and regulations with your pet transporter, and purchase any pet products that will be used during the move.
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