Tips for Moving With Pets

August is a popular month for moving in the U.S. Moving day is often hectic and bittersweet as you close one chapter of your life and transition into another. Those who will be moving with furry, finny or feathered family members will want to take special precautions on the big day.

Tips for Moving With Dogs and Cats

If you are moving with furry friends, there are several ways you can make moving day a bit easier on them.

1. Be sure that you prepare them an overnight kit just like you would for yourself. This kit should include their favorite blanket, toys, treats, food and any medication or grooming tools that you may need. Ensure the overnight kit contains enough for a few days between transitioning from your old home to your new one.
2. Make sure to get your vet records if you’re moving to another city or state and won’t be able to maintain a relationship with the same vet.
3. On the day of the move, be sure your pets are safely out of the way. You can opt to crate them and keep them in a separate room. Or, you can get a friend or family member to pet-sit while your move is underway.

Tips for Moving With Fish

Fish deserve the same compassionate, humane care as any other pet. It may require a few extra steps to ensure your fish are safe and happy while moving.

1. If you are going a short distance, you can transport them in fish bags that contain their old tank water to minimize the stress of moving.
2. Consider saving about 80% of the water from the tank. Place this into unused, clean five-gallon buckets. When you get to your new home, you can use this water to help the fish become accustomed to the new location.
3. While transporting your fish to your new location, try to keep them in a darker place. You can opt to place their bags into a container covered with a blanket if the sun is shining into the car.

Tips for Moving With Birds

When moving with birds, always keep them safely in their cage, even if they are normally out with you during the day. Over the years, more than one bird has flown the coop out of fear of the unusual noises and unfamiliar people of a move, despite the owner saying the bird never flies away. A few other tips to remember:

1. When you’re traveling, be sure to regulate the temperature as much as possible. Birds are extremely sensitive to temperature changes.
2. Place the birdcage in the back of your car, rather than letting the bird sit right up front, if you cannot turn off the airbags that could deploy should you get into an accident.
3. Use fresh fruit and vegetables while traveling to help your bird stay dry, comfortable and hydrated. For example, cucumbers or citrus might be favorite treats for your bird.

Moving is a stressful situation, and when you add in pets, it can become something you dread doing. However, no matter why you’re moving, using these tips can make it easier for your beloved pets to handle moving day with less stress and ensure they are safe!