Moving cross-country is complicated – especially when you add pets into the equation. Not only do you need to plan out how you want to move them, but you also need to consider how they’ll react.If you want to make a move less stressful both for yourself as well as your pet, here are a few essential tips that you should think about:
Schedule a trip to the vet
Before you move your pet cross-country, you should visit a vet for a checkup to make sure they are healthy and fully vaccinated. The reason for this checkup is twofold:
Firstly, it will help avoid underlying health issues from coming to the surface during the stressful move. Secondly, your vet will be able to give you a health certificate that is often required for interstate (or international) moves.
Locate vets that are along the way
If you’re planning to transport your pet by car, you should take the time to locate vets along the way. That way, if any issues do crop up while you’re traveling, you won’t have to scramble to figure out where the nearest vet is located.
It would be best to map out all the vets along your route, and then save their particulars on your mobile phone.
Plan out the potty breaks
Aside from vets, you should also look for opportunities along your route to take your pet for a potty break. It is vital to schedule such breaks every few hours, and if the trip is going to be very long, you should also take the opportunity to let them stretch their legs a little. Regular potty breaks are crucial if you want to avoid unwanted incidents in the car.
Stick to a schedule
Moving is highly stressful for pets, but one way that you can calm them down slightly is by sticking to a schedule. Ideally, your goal should be to plan out a consistent pattern that your pets are familiar with, and then follow it strictly while you transport them.
Research pet transportation options
Before you finalize your plans, be sure to research all your pet transportation options. If you can find any that is faster or may be less stressful for your pet – make it a point to look into them. While you research your options, look into any rules that need to be followed when you move pets across state lines or use different modes of transportation.
There are many things to consider when moving pets cross-country, and it will be quite a bit of work on your part. If you’re engaging a professional mover such as Mega Van Lines Inc, you could ask them if they have any advice.
Although it is a lot of work, the more thorough you are when you plan how you’re going to move your pets – the more issues you’ll avoid in the long run.
