August 14, 2012 By King Relocation

Relocation can be a stressful time for any family. With seemingly endless list of “to-dos” including filing an address change form with your post office, transferring your bills and utilities to your new address, completing school transfer paperwork for your children, hiring a moving company, and making arrangements for perishable food items and plants. It is not surprising that many people often overlook the proper care of their pets during this transition period as they relocate from one home to another.

Planning can reduce the stress of any move, especially where pets are concerned. Over the years, we have discovered that people don’t always know the proper steps to take when relocating their pets. As such, we’ve prepared some pointers that we hope will help guide you as you prepare to relocate your family and your pets.

Planning your Relocation with Pets

Before your relocation, you will want to reach out to your State Veterinarian’s Officer, or the State Department of Agriculture to get a list of any restrictions, regulations or pet laws that you should be aware of when moving across state lines. Some animals that are considered “exotic” such as monkeys, big cats, wolves, etc. will require special permits.

Also, check out the local pet ordinances in your new community. Familiarize yourself with leash laws, licensing requirements and any limitations on the number of pets you may have. Some pets including cats, dogs, aquariums, poisonous snakes, ferrets, etc. may not be allowed in apartments or condominiums.

Once you are certain that your pet(s) will be allowed in your new community, contact your veterinarian to obtain copies of any health records that you should have on hand to provide to your new veterinarian once you have completed your relocation.

Ways to Relocate your Pet

When moving your pet(s), keep in mind that King Relocation Services does not move pets, but they can help you schedule a specialized pet mover. There are companies that specialize in offering professional pet relocation services, or you can move your pets yourself. You may also not move a pet via bus or train, unless they are considered a service pet.

If you opt for the “do-it-yourself” option, it is best to purchase a special pet carrier that is large enough for the pet to stand up, turn around, and lie down. The carrier must have adequate ventilation, a leak proof bottom, absorbent lining, and a secure closing mechanism. Pet carriers may not be locked due to federal regulations that require your pet to be accessible in the event of an emergency.

The most common way to relocate a pet, is generally by automobile. Some things to take into consideration include:

• Make sure that your pet(s) is comfortable riding in the car by taking short rides before the move to accustom it to the movement of the car. If your pet tends to get sick from the motion, consult your veterinarian about medications that will reduce or eliminate the motion sickness.

• Before the move, do not feed or water pet(s) for a few hours prior to your departure. While on the road, only feed once per day. Bring a supply of water from your home, and make frequent stops to water and exercise your pet(s). Always keep your pet on a leash during these stops.

• Try not to leave your pet(s) in the car alone, but if you must do remember to lock the doors and crack the windows to allow for ventilation. Also, leave water with your pet when the weather is warm.

If you plan to make overnight stops during your move, contact several hotels or motels along your route in advance to confirm their pet policies. Do not leave your pet in the car overnight. If you need to leave your pet in your room alone, notify the management and place the “do not disturb” sign on your door.

If you are moving your pet via air, check with your carrier when booking your tickets regarding regulations, and to confirm that the airline allows animals. If a pet is small enough, some airlines will allow them in the main cabin if they are kept in an approved container that is small enough to fit under the seat.

What You Will Need While Relocating Your Pet

There are several items you should have in your possession while you are relocating your pet(s), regardless of whether it is by automobile, air, or a professional pet relocation service:

• A photo of the pet(s) (in case they are lost during the move)

• A Health Certificate for your pet(s) that is less than 10 days old. Many states require them for household and exotic pets. Your licensed veterinarian will be able to provide you with this documentation.

• Any permits required by your new state. Some pets, particularly those that are considered exotic require a permit to cross state borders.

• Identification for your pet. While moving, your pet(s) should be wearing a collar with identification that includes their name, your name, the destination address, and a phone number where you can be reached. Your pet may also be required to wear a rabies tag. You can check with your veterinarian, or the state animal control agencies for more details.

Home Sweet Home

It may take some time for your pet(s) to adjust to their new surroundings. Make sure your pet(s) has access to favorite toys and their bed right away. Once you get settled, find a new veterinarian by asking for referrals from your previous veterinarian, new neighbors, or contact the local Humane Society.

In closing, it is important to keep your pet’s routine as normal as possible during your move. As the final days of packing up and preparing for the move get underway, you may want to consider having your pet(s) stay with a friend or family member, or at a local kennel. This can help to reduce their stress levels, and prevent them from running away our hiding as you busily prepare to relocate.

In closing, we want to let you know that planning ahead can make any move, with or without pets go much more smoothly. At King Relocation Services, we are here to help, and we hope that you will consider us as a partner in your upcoming relocation.