Last updated 10/28/2024
Moving involves more than just packing up your belongings; it’s also about ensuring a smooth transition for everyone involved – including your pets! Pets are cherished family members, yet many pet owners are uncertain about how to move with their animals.
What supplies should you have on hand? Which pet-friendly accommodations can you choose? Are there specific regulations in your new location? What’s the best way to transport your pets safely?
With careful planning and preparation, you can make the move less stressful for both you and your pets. Here are some essential tips for moving with pets to help you along the way!
Table of Contents
Planning A Move With Pets
Moving with a pet requires careful planning – it’s not something to take lightly. Just as you organize your own relocation, you must also consider your furry friend’s needs. Before you embark on your journey by plane, train, or car, take the time to address your pet’s health requirements.
Start by scheduling a check-up with your veterinarian to ensure your pet is in good health and that you have an ample supply of any necessary medications. Additionally, research veterinarians in your new neighborhood and book an appointment for your pet within the first month of your move. This way, your new vet can get to know your beloved companion right away, ensuring a smooth transition for both of you.
Finding Accommodations
If you’re moving long-distance with your pets, you’ll likely need to spend a night or two in a hotel along the way. Finding pet-friendly accommodations is essential, so be sure to research and make reservations in advance. Here’s some information about hotel chains that welcome pets:
- Red Roof – Allows 2 domestic pets (cats or dogs) per room. Your first pet stays free of charge, with a $15 per day fee for a second pet. Each pet must not exceed 80 pounds.
- Motel 6 – Allows 2 pets per room with a combined maximum weight of 150 lbs, free of charge.
- Best Western – Allows up to 2 domestic dogs, 80 pounds max each. Other animals such as cats, birds, and monkeys are allowed at managerial discretion. There may be a pet charge of up to $30 per day per pet, as well as a refundable damage deposit of $150 upon check-in.
- Choice Hotels – Typically allows up to 2 dogs with daily fees that vary by location. Check specific locations for breed and weight restrictions.
- Extended Stay America – Allows a maximum of 2 pets per room, up to 36 inches tall and 36 inches long. $25 per day per pet for the first 6 nights, and then $10 per day per pet for every day after. Additional pets or pets with larger measurements may be approved by management on-site.
- Kimpton– Allows pets of all sizes, weights, and breeds free of charge. Pet beds are available on request, food and water bowls, and a door hanging alerting staff to pets in the room.
- Marriott– Allows pets, but pet fee, weight, and breed restrictions apply by location.
- Staypineapple – Encourages dogs to stay, providing treats, beds, bowls, and door hangers. Daily pet fees and restrictions may vary by location.
Keep in mind that pet policies and fees are subject to change and may vary by location. Alternatively, you can always look for an untraditional stay like an AirBnb or VRBO that allows pets. When searching for accommodations, don’t be afraid to make a phone call to verify any restrictions or associated costs with bringing your furry friends along!
Keeping Your Pets Safe During the Move
Priority number one for pet owners when moving is the comfort and safety of their pets. Most accidents or lost pets from moving come from the stress of the move.
Travelling with your pets can bring with it a number of stresses. While some animals handle the change in their surrounding and routine well, others will not. Thankfully, there are things that owners can do to set themselves (and their pets!) up for success.
Dr. Linda Simon, FiveBarks
If you’re renting a moving truck, do NOT put your pet in the body of the truck. The body of the truck can get very hot, and being in that environment for as little as 15 minutes can be detrimental or even fatal to your pet’s life. Keep them in the cab of the truck with you, or in a personal vehicle with supervision so it’s easy to check in on them.
Microchipping and Registering Your Pets
When moving with pets, there are some essential steps to take to ensure a smooth transition. First, consider microchipping your cats, dogs, or other animals for added safety. If you haven’t already, familiarize your pet with its crate by introducing it weeks in advance, allowing them to explore and feel comfortable. If you’re traveling by car, do practice runs to help your pet adjust to the new routine, making the move less daunting.
Additionally, look into the requirements for registering your pet in your new city. Some areas require proof of vaccinations and proper registration, and failing to comply can result in fines. Registering your pet not only keeps you in line with local regulations but also makes it much easier to locate them if they get lost!
Keeping Your Pets Comfortable While Moving
To help keep your pet safe and comfortable during a local move, Dr. Simon recommends staying at a friend’s or family member’s house. The packing process can be stressful for pets, and this temporary change of scenery can provide some relief. If this isn’t feasible, try tackling the move in manageable batches.
Similar to introducing crates, gradually bring out moving boxes a few days in advance so your pet can get used to their presence. Pack one room at a time, leaving the room where your pet spends the most time until last to minimize disruption.
Transportation
Most moving companies won’t transport pets due to liability concerns. If you can’t take your pet in your personal vehicle, consider using a service like Pet Relocation, which specializes in shipping pets domestically and internationally.
Another option to consider is Airpets International, which can transport your pet by air or car, allowing you to concentrate on the moving van and boxes. They provide veterinary services, personalized handlers, and boarding if your new home isn’t quite ready yet.
Yet another excellent choice, especially for households with multiple pets, is Happy Tails Travel, Inc. Established in 1995, they offer both ground and air transportation services and provide military discounts.
Last but not least, Blue Collar Pet Transport offers tracking for your pet’s journey and provides the option of having a relocation expert transport your pet in your vehicle. If you’re driving the U-Haul, their team member can drive your personal car with your pet, giving you an extra hand during the move.
These companies often transport pets alongside others, so it’s important to ensure your pet is up to date on vaccinations. Some pet shippers may have specific health requirements, so be sure to review your pet’s health records with your veterinarian before the move. Regardless of any requirements, it’s a good idea to get your pet a kennel cough booster to help keep them healthy during the transition.
If you are moving from one state to another and your pet will be flying, or you will be using a pet relocation company, you will need to obtain a health certificate filled out by a veterinarian. Rules differ depending on your location, but you can find the most up-to-date pet information from your local government.
Looking to move soon?
Check out UniMovers and save 30-50% on your move as compared with traditional moving!
Tips for Moving with Cats
Cat owners understand that these sensitive creatures can become anxious and easily startled, especially when their routines are disrupted. Nothing disrupts a cat’s sense of security quite like the upheaval of a move.
When you’re moving across town or across the country with your cat, safety and preparation go hand in paw. Moving can be stressful for cats, who are very territorial and they may have the tendency to escape during the moving process, so establishing a secure, comfortable location – on both ends of the move – is critical.
Doron Wolffberg, Founder All About Cats
Doron Wolffberg recommends creating a designated safe room when moving with cats. This room should be stocked with all your cat’s essentials, including food, water, and a litter box. Ideally, you should set up this safe room in your old home during the packing and moving process and then establish another safe room in your new home for unpacking.
To help keep your cat calm during this stressful time, consider using treats or a pheromone diffuser. Feliway offers wall diffusers designed to soothe your pet. Calming collars are also a popular option for cat owners and may help your feline friends relax a bit during the move.
Keeping Your Feline Friends Safe
If you’re moving across the country, your cat may need to spend several days in a carrier. One option to consider is the Sleepy Pod, which prioritizes your pet’s comfort with its plush design and the ability to secure it with a seatbelt.
When traveling long distances with your cat, ensure there’s space for a litter box. You might also want your cat to go to the bathroom outside the car. To facilitate this, consider leash and harness training in the months leading up to the move. This way, you can turn the long car ride into a fun adventure, allowing your feline friends to do their business outdoors.
It’s also crucial that you and anyone assisting with the move are aware of where the cat is at all times to prevent any chance of escape!
Tips for Moving with Dogs
When it comes to relocating with pets, moving with dogs is often the easiest and least stressful option. However, that doesn’t mean you should overlook your dog’s well-being and safety during the process. While there may still be some stress involved, you can alleviate much of it with proper preparation ahead of time.
Dr. Sabrina Kong, DVM, recommends allowing your dog to acclimate to the kennel or crate they will be traveling in a few weeks before the move. If the move is short, consider having your dog stay at a daycare or with a friend. This not only keeps them out of your way but also reduces one stressor during the moving process.
Dogs especially can become obstacles for movers handling heavy items, putting both them and your movers at risk. By keeping your dogs separate from the moving activities, you can help alleviate the stress that often accompanies a move.
Traveling With Fido
When traveling with your dog, remember to schedule stops for bathroom breaks and leg stretching. Be sure to factor this into your overall travel time. For added peace of mind, consider having your dog microchipped or investing in a GPS-tracking collar, just in case your pet gets loose during the move. You can easily use trackers compatible with your phone, like an Airtag, as well.
Moving With Birds, Reptiles, & Fish
Birds, reptiles, and fish are among the more delicate pets when it comes to moving. Birds can easily fly away if they’re not securely caged at all times, and they are sensitive to temperature changes and prone to injury. Reptiles also require specific habitats and are highly sensitive to temperature fluctuations. Fish need water, which can be challenging to transport in large quantities. It’s crucial to know how to move these types of pets safely and effectively.
Feathered Friends
Lisa Bono, owner and operator of The Platinum Parrot, advises that your bird should always remain in its cage during travel. Even a trained bird can easily escape through an opening in the car.
Additionally, if startled, a loose bird could be injured by sudden braking or in the event of an accident. For these reasons, allowing your bird to roam freely in the vehicle is not advisable. Instead, provide toys and food in a smaller travel cage to entertain and comfort your bird.
Feeling Fishy
It is recommended that fish be transported in either a bag or a 5-gallon bucket filled with water from their tank. The size of the container should be based on the distance to be moved, the size of the fish, and the duration of the journey.
If using a bag, ensure there’s enough air at the top for your fish to breathe. It’s also important to monitor oxygen levels, pH levels, and water temperature throughout the trip. If needed, consider using an airstone or air pump to keep the water oxygenated over long distances.
Drive slowly and cautiously to avoid sudden movements. Once you arrive at your new home, make sure the tank conditions, in terms of oxygen, pH, and temperature, match those in the bucket before transferring your fish.
Making Heads or Tails of Scales
For reptiles, Jeff Neal and the team at The Critter Depot offer valuable tips for ensuring a safe move. The primary concern when relocating reptiles is the stress and shock caused by removing them from their habitats.
Traveling by car is the best option, as it allows you to control the temperature and meet the specific needs of your reptile species. If nothing else can be maintained during the move, it’s important to keep the temperature in your vehicle around 70°F in most cases. Hot packs, insulation, and covers are just a few methods for achieving this.
Exposure to cold temperatures can lead to neurological damage, so it’s essential to keep your reptile warm. Always research the specific requirements of your reptile species to ensure their comfort during the relocation process.
Moving With Other Exotic Pets
When it comes to moving with exotic pets, there are often additional factors to consider. The basics of carriers, temperature control, and veterinary visits are just a few. Being aware of the laws regarding your exotic pet’s ownership in different areas is also important.
Hedgehogs are an example of an exotic pet that is often subject to restrictions. Before moving, check out lists of places where owning a hedgehog is prohibited, as well as specific regulations in other locations.
The same applies to ferrets, chickens, rabbits, and other exotic pets. Be sure to research the legal requirements in your new area to avoid any confusion down the line!
Domestic Pets vs Captive Wildlife
In many states, your exotic pet may be categorized as captive wildlife, according to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA). As such, different laws apply to captive wildlife than to domestic pets. If you are traveling across the county or across state lines, read up on the laws surrounding captive wildlife ownership. If you are planning to use public transportation, you should research any restrictions they might have in place.
Conclusion
Moving with pets can be quite an adventure, but with a little planning, it doesn’t have to be stressful! Our furry (and not-so-furry) friends are important members of the family, so keeping their comfort and safety in mind while moving is key.
By following these tips for moving with pets, you can help make the transition smoother for everyone. Scheduling a vet visit, finding pet-friendly accommodations, and creating a cozy space for your pets are parts of this process. Always check out pet ownership laws in your area, and reach out for professional help if you’re feeling unsure.
Whether you’re moving with dogs, cats, or any other pets, they will be looking to you for comfort and guidance. By prioritizing their needs during the move, you’ll not only ease their stress but also strengthen your bond with them. So, as you’re gearing up for this exciting new chapter, take a deep breath and enjoy the journey ahead. Happy moving!
FAQ’s
Make sure to gather essential supplies such as food, water, bowls, a comfortable crate or carrier, leashes, identification tags, and any necessary medications. It’s also a good idea to have familiar toys and bedding to help comfort your pet during the transition.
To keep your pet safe, never transport them in the body of a moving truck. Instead, keep them in the cab of the truck or your personal vehicle. Additionally, consider microchipping your pet and ensure they are familiar with their crate beforehand. Taking breaks for exercise and bathroom needs during travel is also crucial.
When searching for pet-friendly accommodations, check hotel policies regarding pet sizes, breeds, and fees. It’s advisable to call ahead to confirm the specifics of their pet policy and make reservations in advance to avoid last-minute surprises.
Yes! Research local pet ownership laws in your new area, as regulations regarding vaccinations, registration, and exotic pet ownership can vary significantly. It’s important to ensure compliance to avoid potential fines or issues when settling in.
For long-distance moves, you can transport your pets in your personal vehicle or consider using pet relocation services that specialize in transporting animals. Options include services like Airpets International and Happy Tails Travel, which offer ground or air transportation and ensure your pets’ comfort and safety throughout the journey. Always check health requirements and ensure your pets are up to date on vaccinations before traveling.
Skylar Sanders is an Atlanta native and earned her BA in Film and Media Studies from Georgia State University in 2022. She is currently a graduate student at GSU studying Communications with a concentration in Digital Media Strategies. In her free time she enjoys being in nature, volunteering, creating digital art, and catching up on her favorite TV shows.
