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Moving with Pets: Tips for a Smooth Transition

Moving with Pets: Tips for a Smooth Transition

Pets are often treated as family members, with 63.2 percent of pet owners considering their pets to be family. However, moving with pets, especially long distances, can be challenging. How your pet reacts to a long distance move depends on their personality, species, and previous moving experience. To help your furry family member transition into their new home smoothly, consider the following tips:

1. Research Transportation Methods

When planning a long distance trip with your pet, consider where you are going and how you plan to get there. Double-check state laws regarding the import of pets, as laws can differ. If you are driving, practice driving with your pet to gauge their reaction and prepare accordingly. For longer trips, plan for breaks every few hours, especially for larger pets like dogs.

Flying with your pet may be more challenging, as airline rules and regulations vary. Contact airlines in advance to discuss your pet’s flying options and consider your pet’s personality and the cost of flying them. Never try to put your pet in a moving truck or van with your other belongings.

2. Take Precautions Packing

Pets are smart and may realize they are involved in the moving process, especially cats and dogs that have moved before. Some pets may become anxious or act out when they see boxes piling up. Consider your pet’s personality and stress level when packing. Create a room of fun for them with all their toys, beds, and food bowls to keep them occupied and calm while you pack.

3. Give Special Attention on Moving Day

On moving day, give your pet extra attention, especially if you are using a professional moving company. Keep your pet in a pen or crate to prevent them from getting in the way or running outside. If possible, leave your pet with a friend or family member during the moving process to reduce their stress.

4. Plan for All Seasons

Moving often represents a major change for your pets, so it’s important to help them adjust. Start helping them get used to the idea of moving by bringing boxes into your home early. If your pets are resistant to change, consider leaving them at a friend’s house or in a pen or crate on moving day to keep them calm and safe.

5. Moving with Pets in the Summer

Summer moves can be particularly challenging for pets due to the heat. Register with a new veterinarian before you move and ensure your pet is up to date with all vaccinations. Plan transportation methods in advance and take plenty of resources with you for the journey, such as water, food, and blankets. If flying, notify the airline well in advance and arrange a safe and secure place for your pet prior to travel.

6. Moving Overseas with Pets

Moving overseas with your pet can add an extra layer of stress. Check the animal import requirements for your target country and create a timeline to ensure you meet all deadlines. Schedule a health check with a vet and obtain all necessary documents, such as an animal health certificate and import permit. Find a pet-friendly airline and crate train your pet in advance to make the journey more comfortable for them.

7. Contact the Experts

Moving your pet to a new country can be challenging, so consider hiring a professional international pet relocation company to help you. They can navigate the complex regulations and provide expert advice to make the process smoother for you and your pet.

For more expert moving tips and a no-obligation moving quote, contact National Van Lines at 844-719-1617. Your pets are part of your family, and their well-being during the moving process is important to us.

Pets are often treated as family members, with 63.2 percent of pet owners considering their pets to be family. However, moving with pets, especially long distances, can be challenging. How your pet reacts to a long distance move depends on their personality, species, and previous moving experience. To help your furry family member transition into their new home smoothly, consider the following tips:

1. Research Transportation Methods

When planning a long distance trip with your pet, consider where you are going and how you plan to get there. Double-check state laws regarding the import of pets, as laws can differ. If you are driving, practice driving with your pet to gauge their reaction and prepare accordingly. For longer trips, plan for breaks every few hours, especially for larger pets like dogs.

Flying with your pet may be more challenging, as airline rules and regulations vary. Contact airlines in advance to discuss your pet’s flying options and consider your pet’s personality and the cost of flying them. Never try to put your pet in a moving truck or van with your other belongings.

2. Take Precautions Packing

Pets are smart and may realize they are involved in the moving process, especially cats and dogs that have moved before. Some pets may become anxious or act out when they see boxes piling up. Consider your pet’s personality and stress level when packing. Create a room of fun for them with all their toys, beds, and food bowls to keep them occupied and calm while you pack.

3. Give Special Attention on Moving Day

On moving day, give your pet extra attention, especially if you are using a professional moving company. Keep your pet in a pen or crate to prevent them from getting in the way or running outside. If possible, leave your pet with a friend or family member during the moving process to reduce their stress.

4. Plan for All Seasons

Moving often represents a major change for your pets, so it’s important to help them adjust. Start helping them get used to the idea of moving by bringing boxes into your home early. If your pets are resistant to change, consider leaving them at a friend’s house or in a pen or crate on moving day to keep them calm and safe.

5. Moving with Pets in the Summer

Summer moves can be particularly challenging for pets due to the heat. Register with a new veterinarian before you move and ensure your pet is up to date with all vaccinations. Plan transportation methods in advance and take plenty of resources with you for the journey, such as water, food, and blankets. If flying, notify the airline well in advance and arrange a safe and secure place for your pet prior to travel.

6. Moving Overseas with Pets

Moving overseas with your pet can add an extra layer of stress. Check the animal import requirements for your target country and create a timeline to ensure you meet all deadlines. Schedule a health check with a vet and obtain all necessary documents, such as an animal health certificate and import permit. Find a pet-friendly airline and crate train your pet in advance to make the journey more comfortable for them.

7. Contact the Experts

Moving your pet to a new country can be challenging, so consider hiring a professional international pet relocation company to help you. They can navigate the complex regulations and provide expert advice to make the process smoother for you and your pet.

For more expert moving tips and a no-obligation moving quote, contact National Van Lines at 844-719-1617. Your pets are part of your family, and their well-being during the moving process is important to us.

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