Making Arrangements Needed to Move Pets

If your household move includes moving pets, you must make additional arrangements because pets cannot be transported in moving vans. The moving company usually can refer you to a pet transportation company that will handle the pet’s move, or you can make the arrangements yourself.

When traveling by air with your pets, reservations for the animals are a must. If your trip requires a transfer to a second airline, be sure to check that airline’s animal regulations too.

On many airlines, each ticketed passenger may check two kennels for a small additional transportation charge. Additional kennels must travel as air freight, and the charges are higher.

The animals must travel in airline-approved kennels, and these must be purchased by the shipper. Purchase the kennel several weeks before departure to allow the animal to adjust to the cage. Put the animal’s blanket and a favorite toy in the cage and allow the animal to go in and out at will.

Each state has different requirements for health certificates and entry permits for domestic pets. Call the state veterinarian in the capital city of your new home state to find out what the requirements are. Contact the city clerk of your destination city to check the local license laws.

In most cases, your pet will need a veterinary exam before the move to obtain a health certificate. Some states also require entry permits; check with your veterinarian. The veterinarian also may prescribe medication for the animal during flight.

Obtain identification tags for your animals with their new address before the move. Make sure the animals and kennels are properly marked--pet’s name, your name, destination telephone number and address, as well as the name and number of an alternate contact if you cannot be located. Kennels also should be marked “Live Animal.”

Attach the animal’s leash to the outside of the kennel. Based upon the amount of travel time, you may need to attach food and a water dish as well.

Whether traveling by air or in the family sedan, experts recommend that you do not feed or water your pet immediately before departure.

When you travel by car, you must pack for your pet. Bring his food and water dishes, a supply of his regular food, treats, his bedding and a favorite toy or two. You also should bring an initial supply of drinking water for the animal. This help prevents stomach upset or diarrhea.

Put the animal’s leash on before you open any car doors; this helps reduce the risk of an excited animal bolting into unfamiliar territory.

When you are traveling with your pet in the car, there are a number of national chains that welcome pets. Days Inns, Holiday Inn Hotels, Quality Inns, Ramada Inns, Sheraton Hotels, Inns & Resorts are some of them.

Because individual chain managers may require a deposit, make a small additional charge or ban pets altogether, plan your route in advance. Many of the national chains provide toll-free reservation numbers, call these numbers to make your inquiries and reservations.

If you and your pet are staying in a hotel or motel, use common sense. Travel with a clean pet. Register the dog with the desk clerk upon arrival. Keep the animal off the furniture by bringing his bedding into the room. Find out where you should walk the animal. Don’t leave the animal alone in a strange room. Keep the animal on a leash when in public areas.

SOURCES

“Touring with Towser,” 1989-1991 Edition; 1989; the Quaker Oats Co.

“Moving with Pets,” 1989; the Bette Malone Relocation Service; Fenton, Mo.

“It’s Your Move,” Dona Hollifield; Chicago, Ill.