Update your pet’s tag with your new address.
Make sure your pet’s collar is sturdy and
correctly sized. The tag should also include your mobile number and e-mail
address so that you can be reached during the move.
Request veterinary records.
Ask your current vet to send your pet’s medical
history directly to the new vet. Have their contact information handy in case
of emergency or if the new vet has questions.
Keep a week’s worth of food and medication with
you.
You may want to ask for an extra prescription
refill before you move. Take the same precaution with special therapeutic
foods.
Seclude them from chaos.
Keep your pet in a safe, quiet room on moving
day with a clear sign posted on the door. There are many light, collapsible
travel crates available, but ensure it is well ventilated and sturdy enough for
stress-chewers. Also, introduce your pet to the crate before the trip.
Prepare a pet first aid kit.
Include your vet's phone number, gauze to wrap
wounds or to muzzle your pet, adhesive tape for use on bandages, nonstick
bandages, towels, cotton swabs, antibiotic ointment (without pain relief
medication), and 3% hydrogen peroxide.
Play it safe in the car.
Use a crate or carrier in the car, securing it
with a seat belt. Never leave your pet in the bed of a truck, the storage area
of a moving van, or alone in a parked vehicle. If you’re staying overnight,
find pet-friendly lodging beforehand and have kitty litter or plastic bags on
hand.
Get ready for takeoff.
When traveling by air, check with the airline
about pet requirements or restrictions and whether you must purchase a special
airline crate that fits under the seat in front of you.
Prep your new home.
Set up one room with everything your pet will
need: food, water, medications, bed, litter box, scratch post, and toys. Keep
windows and doors closed when your pet is unsupervised, and beware of small
spaces where nervous pets may hide. If your old home is nearby, give the new
home owners or neighbors your phone number and a photo of your pet, in case
your pet tries to return.
Learn about local health concerns and laws in
your new area.
If you’re moving to a new country, contact the
Agriculture Department or embassy of the country to obtain specific information
on special documents, quarantine, or costs related to bringing your pet into
the country.
