Handle With Care: Moving Pets Takes Time and Preparation
Courtesy Allied Van Lines www.alliedvan.com

You can't pack them away with your children's stuffed animals. So how do you transport your pet when you are moving to a new home on the other side of the country?

Millions of relocating pet owners are asking themselves that same question as they prepare to move this summer.

According to Mike Fergus, CEO and president of Allied Van Lines, one of your priorities should be to talk with veterinarians in your new area to familiarize yourself with animal regulations and licensing requirements. "You will find restrictions on things such as the number of pets allowed per household, mimimum distance your pet's house must be from your neighbors, and where and when your pet must be leashed," says Fergus.

Allied offers the following additional tips to help pet owners move their animals safely:

Preparing Your Pet For The Move

• Update health records at your animal's final trip to the vet. Your veterinarian can advise you on other preparations you should make for your pet.

• Find out if you will be required to pay licensing fees and obtain health or ownership documents.

• Order new identification tags with your name and new address.

Moving Your Pet By Car

• If the drive to your new home requires a stay overnight, find out which hotels along your route allow pets. This information can easily be obtained, either by contacting the hotels themselves or by calling an auto club.

• If your pet is not used to riding in a car, be sure to take him on a few short rides to condition him for the longer trip.

• Pack a survival kit for the car ride, including food and water, treats and favorite toys.

• Pets should not be fed for several hours before your trip.

• Stop for drinks and rest frequently and never leave a pet in an enclosed, locked car.

• Look at the companion article to this for other tips on traveling with your pet.

Moving Your Pet By Plane

• Contact the airline for regulations and services. Airlines vary with respect to required health and identification requirements, size and types of cages allowed, and cost.

• Keep in mind that not all airlines will transport pets in the summer due to larger crowds and warmer temperatures.

• Book a direct flight, preferably during weekdays and not during a holiday. Travel times during the coolest time of day are recommended.

• If your airline allows you to take your pet into the cabin, it must be in a cage small enough to fit under the seat but large enough for your bird to be able to turn around.

• Pets flying in cargo must also have ample room to move comfortably in their cages. Remember to put both a "Live Animal" label and identification label on the container.

• As with traveling by car, it is important that you do not feed or give water to your pet for a few hours prior to the flight.

Arriving in Your New Home

• Acclimatize your pet in your new home by making sure his cage is available and has the same toys and equipment. Try to locate the cage in the same area of the house as in your previous home.

• Follow his regular eating and exercise schedule.

• Become familiar with the veterinarians in your area and make sure you know who to call when your pet needs care.

For more tips on moving pets, send away for a free copy of Allied's Guide to a Good Move. Write to Allied Van Lines, PO Box 9569, Downers Grove, IL 60515. Allied Van Lines web site is at www.alliedvan.com.