Use these tips to keep your pets stress-free while you're going away for a trip, or getting ready to move!
--boarding v. riding along?
TAKE YOUR TIME! Pack your things over time without haste. Your pet will become stressed out if you are stressed.
ROUTINE ROUTINE ROUTINE! Keep your routine as normal as possible during the weeks/days leading up to your trip/move. Any changes in behavior and routine will razz your pet.
USING MOVERS? Remember that your pets have no idea why there are strangers running in and out of your home with boxes and this can have quite an effect on them. They will want to have a safe place to hang out in your home.
USING MOVERS? Remember that your pets have no idea why there are strangers running in and out of your home with boxes and this can have quite an effect on them. They will want to have a safe place to hang out in your home.
GO TO THE VET! Make sure your pet's vaccinations are up to date. If you need a Health Certificate, this is the time to get it! Speak to your vet at that time about using sedatives for travel if necessary.
TRAVELING BY PLANE? Contact your airline and/or the country you'll be landing in and ask what documentation would be necessary for travel (i.e: Health Certificate, Rabies Certificate, Microchip).
USE A CRATE/CARRIER! Whether hanging in the house or in the car, these provide your pet with a safe and quiet place to relax if they decide the excitement is too much to handle.
MONITOR YOUR PET'S BEHAVIOR! Any time a change in the home occurs, whether temporary or permanent, your pet can become very stressed out. Keep a close eye on their behavior and make sure they remain as comfortable as possible.
USE A TRAVEL CHECK LIST! A checklist can be very helpful in making sure you have all you need for your traveling. Here's a suggestion of what it could look like:
- Veterinary records, certificates, and recent photos
- Medications
- Your pets' usual foods and plenty of water from the home you're leaving (changing their water source can be disorienting and upset their stomachs)
- Food and water bowls, a can opener, and resealable lids
- Toys, chew bones, and treats
- Leashes for cats and dogs
- Beds (pillows, towels, or other crate liners)
- Plastic bags and scoops for dogs
- Litterbox for cats
- Cage covers for birds and rodents
- Paper towels for messes
- Provisions for the first day at the new home
At Lombard Animal Hospital, in Portland, Oregon we strive to increase the quality of life for pets and their people through education,
nutrition and wellness!
nutrition and wellness!
Give us a call -- We'd love to see you and your pets!
503.285.2337
Last time I moved my dog freaked out. I'll have to use some of your tips here next time I move to help my dog cope with moving. Like you suggest I'll try and take as much time as possible, so my pet can get used to things being in boxes. Thank you for all this great pet moving advice. http://www.centersinaianimalhospital.com
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