Traveling Long Distance with Pets

Moving Long Distance with Pets

Our pets can sense when we are stressed, and moving to a new place or time zone can be challenging and unpleasant. Everything in the house has been packed, moved, or shrunk, so their familiar surroundings have changed. Since our pets cannot communicate with us, they could start to feel uneasy when moving day approaches. If the relocation with your pet is long distance, the transfer could be much more unpleasant. The tips in this blog can help you relocate your pet across great distances without worry.

Preparation

Your pet might be confused even before moving-day, given that the house may be in disarray from the packing. Make an effort to keep their home environment neat in the weeks leading up to the move to maintain continuity. Don’t change their diet, habit, or nutrition; just stick to their routine.

Prepare your pet for the car. Before the journey, stock up on their preferred foods and pack them! If they are not used to long distance travel, preparation is key. If there is an accident, the pet container or carrier must not move, therefore take care when latching it.

Before you relocate, seek guidance from your veterinarian. You might be able to get vitamins from them to aid with anxiety or motion sickness. Make sure the tablets are operational before the big day.

Educate yourself on local legislation

Before you go, research the rules of the places you intend to stop. A health certificate is required for any animal traveling over state lines. Check first because laws differ from state to state. The USDA website provides information on state pet laws.

Routes Scheduling

Movers will manage almost all your belongings, but they do not transfer pets. Choose a mode of transportation that meets your and your pet’s needs. It is best to use a carrier or box with fastening features. Set up times to stop for food, drinks, and restroom breaks.

Flying?

Check the size restrictions before bringing your pet on a flight. Each airline has different restrictions regarding size. Please check first as certain aircraft may not allow pets. When it’s especially hot or cold outside, it’s best to steer clear of transporting your pet in the cargo hold. Flying with large dogs requires the cargo hold. In this situation, a direct flight might be the best choice because it would prevent the requirement for an aircraft change if they had to fly in the cargo hold.