How to Make Travel With Pets More Simple
A cross-country move is challenging, and making it with pets can be even more daunting. Preparation is essential, whether you have a traditional pet like a dog or cat or a more exotic animal like a snake or lizard. Prepare your animals and kids alike to ensure a smooth journey and a seamless transition. These tips will show you how to make your move stress-free as you travel with pets.
Preparing for the Big Day
Your pet will likely experience stress early in moving as you pack up boxes and suitcases. Environmental changes cause anxiety for animals, so reassure your pet throughout your move. If you are selling your home, create a game plan for your animals to keep them confined or out of the house during showings. You may have a family or friend who can take your pet for you while new buyers look through the house. You might also spend home showings at your dog’s favorite animal park or wherever your pet feels comfortable.
Car travel can make some pets anxious or sick, which you can address before you head out. Research methods of reducing car anxiety and plan for frequent stops to allow your pet to take breaks from the ride. Remember that some holistic remedies, such as lavender oil, are safe for dogs but can be toxic for cats. Before giving your pet any calming products, get your vet’s okay. If natural remedies don’t work, your vet can recommend medication to make your furry friend more comfortable during the journey.
Managing Your Pet’s Health
Make an appointment with your vet to be sure your animal is up to date on vaccinations. A checkup can also reveal possible infections or other health concerns, such as the onset of conditions like canine osteoarthritis, which can be particularly challenging for older dogs during stressful events like moving. Early detection and management of such conditions are crucial for your pet’s comfort. Some states and landlords require pet owners to provide a health certificate, updated vaccinations, and current treatments. You should also transfer your pet’s registered microchip information and update ID tags when you arrive at your new location.
It’s never too early to start searching for a vet in your new location, particularly if you have a more unusual or exotic pet that requires specialized expertise. Your current vet can ensure your pet’s records are up to date and help you navigate the transfer process. Research the vets in your new area, checking reviews, locations, services offered, and rates. Schedule an initial appointment once you are moved in to allow your animal and a new doctor to meet.
Tips While on the Road
Most pet owners prefer driving to flying with pets. Although the time on the road is longer, it allows for frequent breaks and keeps your pet with familiar people throughout the trip. Stock the car with your pet’s favorite blanket and toy, and invest in a restraint like a harness seat belt to keep your pet and their enclosure safe on the road. You can transport cats and smaller animals in kennels or their cages. If your pet isn’t used to riding in the car, familiarize them with the harness or crate before your travels. The more time you spend training your pet, the more comfortable they will be in the car.
Make sure to include all your pet’s necessary supplies for your road trip, including:
● Food with a bowl
● Extended supply of medications
● Grooming supplies
● Favorite toys and puzzles
● Leash and harness
● Pee pads for young dogs
● A litter box and scoop for cats
Stock up on plastic bags for pit stops and include a pet travel water bottle to keep your pet hydrated throughout your journey. Wash bedding and toys before the move so everything arrives at your destination in pristine condition.
Look for pet-friendly hotels along your route and book them ahead of time so you have a safe, comfortable place for all of you to rest at night. Hotels typically have a limited number of pet-friendly rooms, and they can run out of availability quickly. You may want to request a room on the main floor to avoid taking your dog up and down stairs or in the elevator with you. Familiarize yourself with the specific rules of each hotel ahead of time to prevent unpleasant surprises when you arrive.
Special Tips for Special Pets
When your best friend is a reptile or amphibian, the moving process requires even more care to ensure their health and safety on the trip. These pets rely on a consistent daily routine, making traveling even more stressful. You should maintain their usual pattern as closely as possible throughout the journey to avoid agitation and health issues. You must also ensure your destination is as friendly to exotic pets as your current home. You may need a permit to transport your pet across the country, so check with the appropriate agency and your vet to be sure you have all the necessary documentation for your travels.
The Right Environment
Begin by visiting your veterinarian at least a week before your move to collect medical records and a signed health certificate. Your vet can also advise you on how to transport your pet long distances safely. Invest in an appropriate carrier that is roomy enough to allow your pet to move around but small enough to prevent them from being tossed around inside. Venomous reptiles require two labeled containment units; non-venomous animals can be in a single container.
Cold-blooded animals require a consistent temperature, so cooling or heating elements in the carrier are a must. If your pet needs a moist environment, select a water-proof container you can line with wet towels to keep it hydrated, healthy, and happy. Let your pet spend time in the carrier daily before your trip so it becomes used to its travel environment.
The Right Food
Exotic pet food is hard to find, so make sure you bring enough with you for your entire trip. Frozen feeder food works best since it’s easy to store and thaw before feeding your pet. You can find frozen mice, rats, rabbits, and chickens in assorted sizes, allowing you to customize food to your pet’s specific diet. Many reptile owners prefer frozen food because it is more humane for rodents and prevents injuries to your pet.
If your pet eats live insects, they can also be transported in secure enclosures with good ventilation. Pack nutrient-rich food and water for the insects to nourish your pet along the journey. Choose a container that maintains a consistent temperature for insects like crickets, and some worms can be refrigerated for more extended storage. Check with your supplier to ensure you store your pet’s food correctly.
Traveling with pets on a plane or extended road trip is a daunting task that requires careful planning and preparation. You can plan to ensure your pet settles into their new home with minimal stress and upheaval. The job is big, but it can be successful when you know what to expect and care for yourself and your animal before, during, and after your trip. Before you know it, you and your best friend will settle happily and comfortably into your new destination.
