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.
The article has been written on behalf of: