If we think about what some of the biggest changes in someone’s life are – moving is definitely somewhere on that list. After all, if we’re being realistic; going to live in another place is a pretty big transition. There are few of your basic daily habits that will remain unchanged; which isn’t necessarily a bad thing. However, it’s worth bearing in mind that this is a process that affects other people than just you. For example, if you’ve got any furry pals at home; know that moving with pets can be an ordeal if you don’t approach it in the right way. Don’t worry, though – we’re here to make it as simple as possible with this useful guide!
Crash Course in Moving with Pets
As everyone who has pets undoubtedly knows, taking care of your little animal pals is an important part of your daily life. After all, these are creatures that provide us with comfort and company and mean a lot to everyone. And that’s precisely why you need to be extra careful while moving with pets. Moving can be both difficult and chaotic, and leave with you with a shortage of free time before moving day is done; even if you find a professional moving company at a website like bestcrosscountrymovers.com to help you out. That’s why not giving your pets the attention they rightly deserve is an easy mistake to make.
That’s why you should take great while making sure that your pets have everything they need while you’re moving. In order for your animal buddies to have a smooth relocation too, you’ll need to do a couple of things, and we’ll go through them all right now.
Become familiar with regulations
If you’re moving with pets to another state, as you may not be surprised to hear; there are plenty of regulations that you need to learn about. After all, each state regulates pet ownership differently, and to a different degree. Even if you’re relocating to a neighboring state, there are bound to be some differences. So no, it’s not just the matter of packing up your dog’s squeaky toys and moving; there is a lot to do before that.
But how do you inform yourself on the relevant local regulations in the state you’re going to? If you’re not legal-savvy, your best bet is probably contacting a veterinarian there. These people are always up-to-date on the latest changes in pet regulations, and they’ll be able to give you the most reliable information concerning your animals. But even if you’re doing your move on short notice, be sure to do this well in advance. Because there will be some documentation in regards to your pet that you’ll need to prepare.
Pet Documentation
Naturally, if you want to make your cross country move to Florida enjoyable, you don’t want to deal with paperwork. But unfortunately, that is a needed precursor to successfully moving with pets. So, with that in mind, make sure you prepare:
- An interstate health certificate – While you relocate with your pets if you’re going across state lines; an interstate health certificate will be required of you. Though, it depends on the pet, and the state. Generally, if you’ve only got a bird or a cat, chances are you won’t need one; but for anything bigger, such as a horse or even a dog, you’re bound to be asked for one. Still, contact the state veterinarian to get the right info.
- Entry permit – Again, depending on the animal you own, you may need a special entry permit for moving with pets. There is usually a state regulatory agency that’s in charge of issuing these, and you can apply yourself, or you can get your vet to do it. While you apply, there’s a chance you’ll already need to have the above mentioned health certificate.
- Proper vaccination – Here’s something that absolutely every state in the Union requires: if you’re a dog owner, your pet needs to get its rabies vaccination. And in some states, cats need to get it too.
- ID tags – No matter where you’re moving, your pets will need to have their ID tags attached. That goes for dogs and cats, as well as birds, who have the identification tags attached to their legs.
The transportation itself
Obviously, you can’t leave your pets to travel with the rest of the shipment on your moving van; nor should you want to. In that case, the way you conduct moving with pets will basically depend on how you travel yourself; with your own vehicle, or by air. Regardless of which, though, you’ll want your pets to get the best possible care.
And if you’re traveling via a plane, remember that you’ll need to pay insurance expenses and transportation costs. Or, if you’re driving your own car, make sure there’s someone else with you to take care of the pet; for safety reasons.
Finding a new vet
You might have realized this necessity from things we’ve already discussed above; but while you’re moving with pets, you’ll need to find another vet in your new town. Actually, scratch that; it’s not something to do while you’re moving, but before. There are lots of ways you can find a quality vet; if you’ve got any friends with pets in your new area, they can probably recommend someone. Or, you can simply ask your current vet if he has any colleagues there that he can point you to.
