Don’t Forget About Your Pets

The furniture is finally packed and loaded on the moving van, the kids are as ready as they’re ever going to be, and you are exhausted but relieved that the move is progressing more smoothly than you thought it would. But wait a minute… what about the dog, cat and birds?

In all the confusion and excitement about the upcoming move, pets are often given last minute consideration. If the move isn’t within driving distance and if temporary boarding and/or pet transportation hasn’t already been arranged, this could create a problem.

You already have enough things on your mind at this crucial stage and will not enjoy dealing with this unexpected problem. The children may be sorely disappointed when their animal friend(s) are not able to join them immediately in their new home to “protect” them in their strange new surroundings as well as play with them or help them meet new friends. The pet will have no idea why its family has not only vacated the home, but also “abandoned” it.

Relocating is trying for all, even pets. Animals react to change just like people; some take it well, others do not.

Several factors are involved including whether the move is to a compatible location. Whether there are new people involved, and whether the animal has an easy-going nature (some breeds will adapt more easily than others). These are important points for you to keep in mind.

  • When selecting a pet carrier, make sure it meets USDA standards – large enough so the animal can stand up and move around as well as provide adequate ventilation. Label the carrier “Live Animal” and mark which side is up. Most airlines sell USDA approved carriers.
  • Plan the flight with a minimum number of stops and transfers.
  • Be sure to exercise the pet before placing it in a carrier for shipping.
  • Do not feed the pet for 6-8 hours before the flight. Also, do not give the pet water within two hours of shipping.
  • Try to make the carrier cozy by adding a few favorite toys. It’s also a good idea to familiarize the pet with the carrier before shipping.
  •  If the pet tends to be high strung, check with your veterinarian to see if the animal needs to be tranquilized before the flight.
  •  Place a tag on the animal with your name, address and destination so the pet can be quickly identified if it escapes from the carrier.
  •  Be sure to follow all the guidelines, as an airline can refuse to ship an animal if the cage is unsafe or if the pet is unhealthy.

There are services that can help alleviate the hassle of transporting pets to another city. Depending on how much you can afford and which company is selected, services can include pet pick-up and delivery, pet carrier rental, air flight arrangements, boarding, bathing and grooming. Some companies will also procure health certificates and provide necessary vaccinations.

Rates are usually based on the size of pet carrier or the animal’s weight, the destination, and the degree of services contracted. There is usually a minimum fee for pick-up and delivery, with an added cost for any mileage that goes over that limit.

  • Do not transport your pets much farther than they have safely traveled in the past without consulting you veterinarian. Also, do not forget to obtain a copy of your pet’s medical records.
  • A moving company can inform you of any state regulations for pet entry, vaccination or quarantine procedures. Ask about regulations, licenses, tags, etc.
  • Consider taking pets to a friends home or kennel during packing and/or moving.
  • Denver Animal Licensing: 303-698-0080

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