Seven Tips for Moving With Pets

August 27, 2018

Even the smoothest move has its stressful moments – especially for family members of the four-legged variety. McKendree Moving & Storage offers seven top tips for making the move easier and safer for your beloved Fido or Fluffy.

1. Update tags: Stressed pets are prone to bolting the moment they get a clear shot – like when you make a pit stop at the highway rest stop. Make sure your pet is wearing a sturdy collar with an identification tag that lists your cell phone number, destination and phone number of your moving company. Be sure to leash your pets before opening the door of your vehicle.

1. Gather veterinary records: If your new home is far enough away that you’ll need a new veterinarian, be sure to request copies of your pet’s vaccinations, medical records and health certificates. Also, keep in mind that your new city or state of residence may have different laws concerning pet vaccinations. Find out in advance to make sure you’re in compliance and if possible, visit the area and choose a new veterinarian prior to your move.

1. Pack extra food and medication: If your pet is on a particular prescribed medication or therapeutic food, purchase and pack an extra week’s worth should an emergency or delay arise.

1. Pack a first aid kit: Make sure yours includes gauze, non-stick bandages, adhesive tape, towels, hydrogen peroxide and your vet’s contact information.

1. Make it comfy: Pets can easily get stressed by all the strangers, movement and general chaos involved in a move. While packing, keep your pet secluded in a quiet room with a favorite bed, blanket or toy. When it’s time to load up, secure your pet in a sturdy, well ventilated travel crate with a few of those favorite items. If your pet isn’t already crate-trained, planned ahead to assure your pet is familiar with and comfortable in the crate.

1. Prepare for takeoff: If your pet will travel to your new home by air, check with the airline ahead of time for any pet requirements or restrictions. Know that you may be required to purchase a special airline crate that fit beneath the seat in front of you. And, those medical, shot and health certificate records likely will be a must, so pack them in your carry-on luggage.

1. Ready your new home for your pets: When you arrive at your new home, everyone is ready to settle in quickly – including your pet. Immediately set out those familiar items, including your pet’s favorite bedding, toys and feeding dishes, and treat them with a big chewy bone or kong to keep them happily occupied. Secure pets in a locked room while movers are going in and out of your home with doors wide open and while large appliances are being installed, as nervous pets may attempt to hide in the open gaps behind or between them. If your new home is a close distance to your old home, keep in mind that if a pet gets loose, he may track his way back to familiar surroundings. Notify the new owner or tenant and make sure they have your new contact information.

Once you’re settled, take your pet for a walk around your new neighborhood or visit a nearby pet-friendly park. A relaxing sight-seeing excursion will do you both good.

Here at McKendree Moving & Storage, we specialize in making moves smooth and enjoyable for all involved -including pets. Call 800-530-2626 to schedule yours.