Just like us humans, pets too undergo a lot of stress during moves. The change of the familiar environment can make your pets sad, depressed and even sick. Whether you have a dog or a cat or maybe fishes, each animal response to the change in environment differently.
Several cross country movers at Pricing Van Lines, who have helped move families and pets to distant locations state that pets have their unique response to this change in their lifestyle. They consider moving as a territory loss and feel insecure and dreadful. By making some key changes like ensuing that the pets are offered similar settings or a dedicated room, pets can be calmed down.
Let us discuss the three essentials of moving with pets:
Transportation:
The first thing to address while moving with pets is the mode of transportation. None of the concerned pet owner would like to ship the pet in a moving container, neither a moving company will advise you so. However, the movers can help you decide a safe and comfortable way to transport your pet to the new address.
The best way of transportation is taking the pet with you in the car. This will offer them the assurance that you are with them, even if the landscape around is changing. Here, an important fact to note is controlling the pet. Often open doors and windows can make pets frightened and hence putting a leash on them or using a crate or carrier is advised.
Irrespective of how your pet travels, do not forget to put an identification tag around its neck. The tag must have the key information including pet’s name, your name, address and maybe contact number.
You cannot take a pet on buses and trains until and unless it is a guide dog. In case of guide dog too, you must inform the bus, train or Airline Company about the dog accompanying you.
You can however, choose to ship the pet by air. If this is the case, ensure that you have made prior reservations and arrangement for drop and pick up.
State entry requirements:
If you are moving interstate, it is important to read the state laws on the entry of animals. You can read the information on the agencies website or reach out to them over phone or personally.
In case of dogs and horses, it is important to have an interstate health certificate. Many other states have the same rule for other pets as well. In a few states, an up-to-date rabies inoculation is essential for dogs and for cats too in a few. The rabies tag needs to be placed on the dog’s color, In Hawaii particularly, it is important for the pets to be quarantined for at least 120 days.
A few American state also facilitate a border inspection of all animals being transported. In other few, there is the provision of random pet inspections.
Local laws:
State and local agencies set up pet control and licensing ordinances. This can also limit the number of pets allowed in a single home. Some states may even prohibit petting large animals like horses and ponies. It is important to check the local laws before moving your pet.
Just like you and other family members find it tough to adjust to the new environment initially, pets face the same problem. You must put all your efforts in making the pet feel comfortable. In a few cases, pets will get used of the environment by exploring the outdoor spaces. However, in most of the cases, it is recommended to keep the pets inside till the time they get acquainted to the new place.
Carrying your pet’s favorite items including food bowl, toys and blankets with you is essential. Moreover, you can also try and make similar room arrangements as it was in your previous residence. Pets have their own way to respond to change, make sure you help them adjust and feel normal in the new settings.
By carefully planning the move with the pets and taking professional help, you can ensure that the pets are safely transported and settled at the new place.
