Moving Fido: 5 Useful Tips to Remember
At the Move Advocate we think of our pets as an extension of our family. Chances are many of your clients think the same way. So when they are preparing to move cross country it is only natural that Fefe or Fido would be joining them. We need to remember that moving isn’t just stressful for us; it is stressful for our pets too. So where do our furry friends fit in the mix of all the mayhem of moving?
When it comes to moving pets, pre-planning is very important as animals can be very sensitive to changes in their surroundings. Here are five top things to keep in mind as a pet owner moving with pets.
1. Make Friends with the Travel Crate
Whether you travel by car or by air, the crate your pet travels in will be his “home” during the trip and it’s crucial that your pet feels comfortable in it ahead of time. This is the most important step and as soon as you know you’re moving, it’s a good idea to get a crate if you don’t already have one. This way, you can start getting your pet used to their new home well in advance. This will help your pet’s stress levels on your move date. If you are unsure how to crate train many pet stores offer training classes. Additionally you can try feeding your pet in the crate on a daily basis to help ease the transition.
2. Pick a Frequent Fido Flier
Why should you get extra leg room for yourself but not for your pet? Select an airline that offers first-class accommodations for pets traveling in the cabin or under the plane. There are many pet-friendly airlines that keep pets in climate controlled conditions throughout the flight which ensures that every pet will arrive safely at its destination. In fact there is even a pet only airline called PetAirways.
3. Arrange a Jet-Setter Check Up With Your Vet
If you’re making a trip across state lines or international borders, you’ll need a health certificate issued the week before the flight. Most states require pets to be current on their rabies shots. For international trips, the documentation for importing or exporting pets can be even more complex. Planning ahead and consulting a professional pet relocation company can ensure that your trip goes smoothly.
4. Say No to Sedatives
Because we love them so much we want our animals to feel comfortable, but giving them a sedative is more for our peace of mind, not theirs. Your pet is much more likely to deal better with their anxiety without medication. The truth is giving your animal a sedative prior to travel can be very dangerous. The most common tranquilizer, H-acepromazine has very serious consequences for traveling pets: it relaxes the respiratory muscles which makes breathing more difficult, it could lead to over-exertion just for breathing, which will lower blood sugar, and it alters the body’s temperature control mechanism.
5. Packing for Your Pet
Packing for a pet is not unlike packing for a child you do not want to over prepare. Just the essentials. Make sure your dog has tags that list your mobile number, or better yet get them microchipped. If your pet is traveling in the car with you measure out their everyday kibble in serving-sized bags and bring two portable bowls and plenty of water for the road. Other must haves include an extra leash, an ample supply of your pet’s regular medications and supplements and plenty of biodegradable bags to pick up after your pooch during rest stops and walks.
No matter if your move is big or small it is important to do your research and make plans accordingly when moving pets. This can make all the difference, resulting in a well transitioned pet and a less stressed pet owner. Contact Move Advocate today for more information and for help in moving your clients and their pets safely.
(courtesy www.moveadvocate.com)
