Tips for Moving with Pets Pt2: A Safe Moving Day

Moving day will undoubtedly come much faster than you think. As busy and long as moving day will be for you remember that this is the phase of the process that is the most dangerous for your pet. Thankfully there are a number of things you can do to minimize the risks whether you are moving around the corner or across the country. 

Moving Day

Keep Your Pet Secure

Secure your pet in a room that will either be moved first or last. Place your pet’s bed, crate toys food, etc. in the room and place a “Do Not Enter” sign on the door. This will help keep your pet calm by isolating them from much of the commotion, and it will also help prevent your pet from escaping through an unattended door or window. Remember that even a pet that is used to being able to come and go as they like and who “always comes back”  is more likely to disappear on moving day.

Keep Pet Supplies Handy

Pack your pet an “open first” box. The open first box is a moving strategy that has you pack essentials in a separate easy-to-find box so that you have access to them right away. For your pet this would include water bowls, favorite toys, blanket or bed, food, treats, kitty litter, and any medications your pet takes regularly. 

Prepare for Disaster

Preparing for the possibility that your pet may get lost or injured during the move is one of the best ways to assure this doesn’t happen. Keep your pet's vaccination records, a photo of your pet, and the numbers to local animal control, non-emergency police, and local vet on hand. 

Plan For Pet-Friendly Travel

If you’re moving a distance and will be driving with your pet make sure you plan a pet-friendly route. You can do this by booking pet-friendly accommodations (have an exotic pet? Make sure you are specific about what kind of pet the hotel can expect). And by planning a route with places to stop where your pet can get out and stretch their legs or go to the bathroom. For a list of pet-friendly hotels check out www.petswelcome.com. 

Prepare for Mess

Avoid feeding your pet right before you depart. Even if your pet is a good rider traveling on an empty stomach will help prevent your pet from soiling its crate during the trip. It's also a good idea to put pet-safe cleaner and paper towels in your car just in case. 

Transport Your Pet Safely

Make sure that you are prepared to transport your pet as safely as possible by following our safety tips. 

• The safest place for your pet is secured by a seatbelt in their crate or carrier in the backseat. This should go without saying, but never transport your pet in the back of a moving van. 
• If traveling with more than one pet it is best to keep companions together and loaners separate. Bonded pets will keep each other calm during the journey, while animals who are usually separate will most likely not appreciate the company during such a stressful time. 
• Be mindful at rest stops and gas stations during your move that your pet can’t dart out the door. Be sure your pet is secured in their crate or that you have them securely leashed before opening your car door or window. 

  

Moving Day will be long, and stressful for both you and your pet. Prepare ahead of time and keep your pet’s safety the priority and you both should arrive at your new home in no time!

Looking for tips to make moving day go more smoothly or to help your pet adjust to their new home? This is part one of our three part series on moving with pets. Be sure to check back for part 3 and read part 1.