Change of place to a new address is a stressful and a complicated procedure. But on the other hand, if the family is moving with four-legged friends, then the problem doubles in size. Pets that are used to live in a certain way, and all of a sudden they change their environment and they go on a trip, especially if it is a long one, get so stressed that they become almost helpless. If you are moving for work, school, or anything else, still the first thing you should do is to keep your pet safe and comfortable during the travel.
In this blog post, we are going to discuss the essential transport tips for relocating with pets. We will walk you through all the steps from getting your pet ready for the journey to choosing the best transport options so that both you and your furry friends have a trouble-free travel.
Why Moving with Pets Requires Extra Attention
The process of moving with a pet is different from moving a family. The pet is not able to understand that their surroundings are going to be different and, therefore, it is highly likely that they get upset and may show their anxiety, fear, or confusion. What is more, if the trip is quite long, especially if it is a flight and the pet is in the car for many hours then it can be an animal, not only physically but also emotionally, a tired one.
If your pet is to be kept safe and be at an ease during relocation, it is necessary to be an early planner take all the necessary safety measures and pick the most suitable travel method. The important tips are brought here that can go a long way in making moving with your pets a bit easier.
- Getting Your Pet Ready for a Trip
Step one to a safe pet transport is definitely getting the pet ready for the trip. This is the case when the pet is not used to traveling by car or plane.
Health and Vaccination
Ensure that your pet is in good health before setting off on a long journey. Take your pet to a vet for a pet health check. A vet will be able to evaluate your pet’s health and suggest the required vaccinations and medications for a hassle-free trip.
If you’re flying, certain airlines may require a health certificate or proof of vaccination, so be sure to check these requirements in advance.
Acclimating Your Pet to Their Travel Carrier
It goes without saying that if your pet is going to be in a carrier during his travel, it is an absolute must that he gets acquainted with it a long time before the move. Doing this will minimize the worry and the stress at the time of the trip. Thus, here are some steps to take for your pet to be ready:
Introduce the Carrier Gradually: First of all, let your pet discover the carrier at your place. Put some treats or one of their toys that they like the most inside so that the space becomes a new and nice place for them.
Practice Short Trips: Take your pet in the car on short trips and put him in the carrier so that he gets familiar with the movement and the small space. To be able to simulate the longer trip, you can slowly make the trips longer.
Food and Water
First of all, make sure that your pet has enough water and food during the trip and yet do not give them a big meal just before the journey, as it may cause discomfort or get them a motion sickness. So, let them have a light meal a few hours before you leave. Also, let them have water during the trip, in particular, if it is a long journey.
- Choosing the Right Transport Option
The selection of the proper transportation mode is the most important step in moving with the pets. It is the pets’ comfort and safety that depend on the best transportation option which, in turn, relies on the move distance, pet’s health, and pet’s temperament.
- Car Travel
For moves that are not very long, the car traveling is the best and most comfortable way in most cases for pets to travel. Some recommendations for a trip with pets in a car are:
Secure Your Pet: The first thing you have to do is put your pet in a safe place in the car. An animal seatbelt harness, crate, or carrier is a good option to avoid the pet from moving too much in the trip.
Take Frequent Breaks: If the drive is for several hours, then it is good to stop every 2-3 hours and let the animal have a walk, toilet, and drink some water. Never leave your pet in a car without you especially in hot or cold weather as it is life-threatening.
Comfortable Environment: Try to make the car as comfortable as possible for your pet. Use blankets, cushions, or even the familiar item of your pet can be of great help to your pet’s security feeling.
- Air Travel
In case you are moving to a different place within the country or to another country, air travel may be the only option. It is quite vital that you get your pet ready for the trip as air travel is usually a very stressful experience for them.
Pick pet-friendly airlines: There are a few airlines that are more suitable for pet transport and thus they offer such services as climate-controlled cargo hold and more comfortable accommodations for pets. Do not forget to take a look at the pet policy of the airline and also get in touch with them to know the exact requirements for flying with your pet.
Crate size: The container in which your pet will be flying should be big enough for your pet to stand, turn, and lie down without any problem. In general, airlines have their own specific requirements for crates, hence it is very important that you use one that complies with those standards.
Health Certification: Most airlines demand a health certificate from a vet which is usually valid for a certain period before the date of the flight. It is advisable to get this in time and carry it along with you on the day of your flight.
- Pet Transport Services
On the other hand, if you have to move far away or go abroad, pet transport services will make sure that your animal is moved safely. They can even perform the operations, ensuring that the pet is carried in the least stressful and most peaceful way. The qualified animal carriers have the knowledge and experience for the safe transportation of a pet via a plane and so they can book your flight and provide the right carrier for you.
In the event of the selection of a pet transport company, a bit of investigation such as going through customer testimonials, seeking reference from known sources and confirming the credentials and taking insurance will make the act foolproof.
- Keeping the Pet Relaxed During the Transfer
The anxiety of a pet in a move is quite understandable but a pet who is not used to being confined for a long period of time in a small space, will be anxious for sure. To keep your pet from stress, think over the next suggestions:
Items that your pet knows: Along with your pet, bring his/her favorite blanket, toy, or a piece of clothing that smells like you so that your pet can feel safe during the trip.
Relaxing Products: Some animals get good results from the use of relaxation spray, diffuser for pheromones, or natural supplements that help the reduction of the anxiety. Ask your vet for a list of products which are safe to use in your pet giving him/her the great relief of anxiety.
Do Not Overstimulate the Pet: If you are traveling by car, it is good to maintain the level of noise at a minimum and at the same time avoid any sort of distractions. If traveling by air, try to select direct flights only so that you will have less time on the trip.
- Post-Arrival Care for Your Pet
Helping your pet get used to their new environment is a good idea after finishing your journey to the new place. Select a room or area where your pet can relax and slowly get them acquainted with their new home. It is necessary that they eat and drink and, also, have a place for rest that is nice and comfortable. A walk that is familiar to your pet will also help make your pet familiar with the new place of residence.
Conclusion
Bringing pets along during a move is indeed a tough and satisfying experience which proper preparation acts as a main key in allowing a journey to go smoothly. You can alleviate the anxiety of your pet and yourself by employing these transport tips for relocating with pets. It doesn’t matter if you are bringing your pet on a road trip, taking a plane, or asking a professional pet transport service to do it, your pet will have a safe and comfortable trip to the new home if you take the right steps.
We at Automobile Shipping know that the well-being of your pet is a top priority during the entire process. Reach out to us for the details of our pet-friendly vehicle transport services and the ways we can simplify your relocation process.
