Wednesday, July 31, 2013

5 Tips for Moving Pets

       A move is rough on animals. They're used to the environment in which they roam - chasing squirrels and prowling after chipmunks. So when you put them into a car or on a plane to set up digs in a new place, they don't always take it that well. But for the most part, pets just want to be with their owners. So if you pay them some loving attention, they'll take the commute to the new home OK. But beyond making your pet as comfortable as possible, there are other procedural considerations. Does the state or county to which you're moving have special laws related to pets? If you're moving overseas, will you have to quarantine your pet? If you're flying your pet to your new abode, what kinds of documentation will you have to show the airline? Find out the answers to these questions on the next few pages.
What five essential things should I consider when moving with a pet?
Image Credit: ©iStockphoto.com/Graffizone

5: Read up on Pet Regulations

If you're moving overseas and you have pets, you need to check into the regulations regarding moving pets. Some countries require quarantine for pets that have been moved from another country - and that quarantine can be as much as six months. Within the United States, each state will have different laws regarding pet transportation. For example, half of the states require a pet harness for dogs. As far as moving regulations, most states don't require quarantine, but the state of Hawaii does. The state is rabies-free and to try to keep it that way, it requires a 120-day quarantine for any pets that travel to the state. You can reduce the quarantine length by having your pet tested for rabies 120 days prior to the move and paying a fee.

4: Transport Your Pet with You

Not that you would want to put your pet in the back of a moving truck, but if you were considering it, it can't be done. Professional movers don't move pets. So, you will need to transport your pets with you. They'll be much more comfortable in your presence, and you'll be able to keep an eye on them. Travel can make pets nervous, to say the least. If you're transporting a dog, be sure to keep a leash on the animal at all times. And cats generally prefer the confines of a crate for travel. You might also consider some other adjustments for your vehicle for the transport of pets: pet seat covers, pet car barriers (to keep Fido out of the front seat while you drive) and pet steps and ramps (to help them climb aboard).

3: Check on Airline Rules for Pets

If you're traveling by air, you have another set of issues to consider. You'll need a pet carrier for each pet. Check with the airline to see if the carrier can be kept in the cabin. Some airlines require that all carriers be stowed in luggage compartments. Others allow small carriers to be kept by your seat. You'll also need to show that your pet has been immunized. For example, most airlines will require proof of rabies shots, a certificate of veterinary inspection (signed by your vet) and an acclimation certificate. Also, there will most likely be a $50 to $150 fee for transporting your pet via air. There are also age restrictions for pet air travel, so check into those.

2: Make Sure Your Pet Wears Identification

Whether you're transporting your pet by air or by car, you want it to wear identification at all times. God forbid your dog gets lost the same way your baggage can when you travel by air. That would be a horrible scenario. So, have your pet wear a tag that includes your name and phone number, the address of your destination and the name and phone number of a friend or relative, as well. It's good to have two points of contact on the tag, in case you're away from your cell phone when Fido or Fluffy gets lost.

1: Check Local Laws on Pets


Once you get to your new abode, you need to abide by the laws in the county and the state regarding pets. For example, some counties and states may have laws regarding the amount of pets you can have at one residence. And some may have laws on the types of pets that are permitted. In most places, you'll need to have your pet licensed and you'll have to do this within a certain amount of time.

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1 comment:

  1. Hi! nice post. Well what can I say is that these is an interesting and very informative topic. Thanks for sharing your ideas, its not just entertaining but also gives your reader knowledge. Good blogs style too, Cheers!


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