5 Things to Know When Moving with Pets

Moving with pets across the country can be stressful. Pets thrive in secure, predictable environments, and leaving their home puts a strain on them — and on you. If you’re relocating with furry family members, these five moving with pets tips and strategies will help make the process as smooth as possible. 

Talk to Your Vet

Your veterinarian is a great resource when moving long distance with pets. Vets can help prepare your animal for the trip, offer travel tips, and help make sure you have any paperwork and medical documentation needed to move to your new home. While at the vet’s, make sure your pet’s vaccinations are up-to-date. 

Update any pet tags and microchips with your new address if you know where you’ll be staying, including contact numbers where you can be reached. It’s not uncommon for cats and dogs to get lost when they change homes — an updated microchip helps lost pets get home safely.

Fill any prescriptions your pet needs. If your pet gets anxious while traveling, the vet may recommend a mild sedative for the journey. Finally, ask your vet if he or she can recommend any vet services close to your future home.

Research your new city/neighborhood

Check the pet laws and regulations in your new neighborhood before moving. Different municipalities have different regulations. You may have to register your pet, meet a different set of vaccination requirements, or obey leash laws that differ from those in your old home.

If you’re moving to a planned community or other location governed by a homeowner association, check the rules to see what you can and cannot do with your pet. You don’t want to move into a planned community only to be told your pet can’t stay.

Preparing your pets for the journey

If your furry buddy is already crate-trained, you’re well-prepared for moving with pets across the country. If not, give your pets time to get used to a travel crate by taking the following moving with pets tips:

• Give them time to get acclimate to the crate in the house.

• Put their bed or a favorite toy in the crate to encourage them to use it. 

• Let them eat in the crate with the door open, eventually shutting the door while they are eating. 

• As they get more comfortable with the closed create, take them for short drives.

Rewarding your pet with praise, treats, and snuggles for using the crate helps them feel comfortable when they’re in it. 

Prepare your new home for Fido's arrival

If possible, prepare your new home for your pet while the house is empty. Check the backyard for holes or other damage to the fence that could be used as escape holes. Do a general safety check at the same time; the previous occupants may have left pesticides or other substances lying around that could poison a curious pet. 

Some pets get frightened when faced with exploring a whole new home. Set up a dedicated room for your pet for the first night at the house with their crate, food, and toys, and gradually expose them to the rest of the house.

Use a pet-friendly extended stay as your temporary home base

Moving with pets across the country is stressful enough without wondering if you can find accommodation that accepts pets. Using a pet-friendly extended stay hotel such as WoodSpring gives you a temporary home base. You’ll have the assurance that your pet is safe and welcome, allowing you to take your time finding a new home and preparing it for your furry friend.