Moving with Pets

We all know moving is stressful but when you have pets, moving presents an even bigger challenge. Many factors must be considered to try and ensure a seamless transition for your pet.

Navigating pet-friendly accommodations, organizing your belongings, and adhering to essential dos and don’ts become paramount when moving with pets, even if you enlist the services of a moving company. So, when you’re moving with your furry pals, the first thing to do is plan it out. Think about how you’re getting there, how far it is, and all the little details of the move.

BREED BANS: Check on any dog or cat breed restrictions prior to buying a new home. For example, if you own a Pitbull type dog, he or she would be banned from entering or transiting the province of Ontario, and many of the cities in Manitoba and many towns within other provinces have either breed bans or breed restrictions in place. With cats for example, a Serval cat may be banned or Savannah cats while not banned, certain generations may have restrictions placed on them.

REGULATIONS: Check in advance to see what licenses, or tags are needed for your pet in the new spot and plan to get all that paperwork squared away as soon as possible after the move.

CRATE/CARRIERS: If your pet will need to be caged or crated for travel and they are not use to this, you will need time to get them accustomed to this so it doesn’t add to their stress during the move. First off, pop their favorite blanket, food and water bowls into the carrier or crate, and leave the door open so they can check it out. Once they’re entering comfortably, give closing the door a whirl for a short spell while you’re around. Once they are calm with this. Leave the house for a short bit and return giving them treats and praises when you open the door.

PET INSURANCE: Don’t forget to give your pet insurance provider a heads-up about the move. You’ll want to make sure you’re covered for the journey and your new stomping grounds.

VETERINARIAN: Depending how long the move is or whether your pet will be with you during the move, you may want to visit your vet to ensure they are in good health and all vaccines are up to date; and if you’re switching cities or provinces, discuss with your vet what vaccines are required in the new town.

MICROCHIPS/TAGS: One thing many people forget but is very important is to ensure that before you hit the road, make sure all your pet’s info is up to date. That means tags, microchip, and any other forms of identification have your new address and current cell phone number. If they’re not microchipped already, it might be worth getting it done before you start your move. It can be a lifesaver if they happen to go missing during all the hustle and bustle.

Sometimes, bringing your furry buddy along for the ride to your new home can be a bit challenging. If, for instance, you’re cruising in a rented U-Haul or if your pet can’t tag along on your flight, you might need to figure out another way to get them to your new home.

Pet relocation services can make sure your pet gets to your new place safe and sound if you’re unable to bring them yourself. It’s definitely worth considering when you’re mapping out your move. Just keep in mind, you need to plan ahead for this and be ready for the extra cost to send your pet through one of these services.

DRIVING: If you plan to take your furry friend on the drive, be sure they are secured in the vehicle, take frequent breaks and pack the items you need during the drive:

▪ Collar and Leash

▪ Car Harness or Crate

▪ Bed / Blanket

▪ Food

▪ Fresh Water

▪ Bowls

▪ ID Tags

▪ Treats and Toys

▪ Poop Bags/Litter, pooper scooper

▪ Cleaning supplies

ACCOMODATIONS: If you are driving and your journey is going to stretch out over a long distance, you may need to include some overnight stays, so before you make the big move, you’ll need to sort out accommodations where your furry friends are welcome.

NEVER LEAVE YOUR PET UNATTENDED IN A VEHICLE. The temperature can rise very quickly and pose a threat to your pet.

Hop online and scope out pet-friendly hotels or Airbnb’s, or reach out to local pet shelters and groups geared toward helping pet owners like yourself. Give any intended accommodations a call when booking to suss out the rules and any extra fees or deposits you might need to cough up.

Finally, try sticking to your pet’s regular routine as much as possible during the trip. If they are used to being walked or fed at certain times, try to adhere to this.