Moving with Pets
Before moving your pet, here are some important reminders:
- Schedule an examination by a veterinarian
- Your veterinarian may suggest a tranquilizer or other precautionary measure
- Obtain copies of your pet's health and vaccination records and update identification
tags
If you will travel by air,
contact the airline well in advance to check regulations and services and to make
reservations. Book a weekday flight when there tends to be more cargo room. Also,
try to book a direct flight to reduce your pet's confinement time. Select a portable
air-transport kennel that's large enough for your pet to stand and move around.
Most airlines sell or rent these special carriers. Let your pet get accustomed to
the kennel in advance of the trip. Mark the container "live Animal," and
affix a label that includes your pet's name, new address, phone number, and special
handling instructions.
If you will travel by car, acquaint your pet with car travel by taking it
for short drives around the neighborhood. Don't feed your pet for several hours
prior to your trip. Do, however, pack a canteen of fresh, cool water and stop frequently
for drinks and walks. If you stay overnight in a hotel, determine ahead of time
if pets are welcome.
Birds and small pets such as hamsters can travel by car in their cages, provided
the cage is stable, properly ventilated, and protected from drafts. Covering the
cage may help to keep your pet calm.
Finally - and this is important for all pets at all times - never leave an animal
unattended in a car. Even in moderately warm weather, the temperature inside a car
can reach 120 degrees in just a few minutes. Conversely, in winter months, the temperature
can drop well below freezing before you realize it.
Resources for Moving with Pets
The following links are to sites that you may find useful.
The above sites are not endorsed by or affiliated with North American Van lines.
