HOW TO
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
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.