Category: Moving

Most of us do something every time we hop into our cars, without even thinking about. We buckle up. Wearing seatbelts significantly lowers the risk of severe injuries, while also reducing the chance of critical injuries by more than half. So, it just makes sense that when you hit the road on moving day, you will buckle up yourself and your children. However, you may be forgetting about the safety of another important member of your family . . . your pet.

Dangers of Not “Buckling-Up” Your Pet

More pets are traveling in vehicles than ever before. Unfortunately, more of them are harmed when they are not safely secured in a vehicle. When pets are not properly secured, they can get injured and so can other passengers. A “free range” pet can easily divert the driver’s attention and result in an accident. A sudden stop or high impact accident can cause your unrestrained pet to become a projectile – causing serious injury to himself and others. Sadly, occurrences of unsecured pets being thrown through windshields are not uncommon with serious accidents.

An additional thing to consider is that if there is an accident, a frightened, unsecured pet may bolt out of the car into traffic when a rescue worker or other person opens the door. So, whether you are moving across the country, or just across town, it is necessary to properly secure your pet to keep him, you and the rest of your family safe.

Ways to Secure Your Pet

There are actually many pet vehicle safety devices to choose from. The one you select will depend on your pet. Things to consider include: type of pet, size/weight, temperament, his comfort level…and yours. Pet safety belts, pet car seats that have built-in seat belts, pet travel crates and kennels, and vehicle pet barriers are among the options available to secure your pet.

It’s important for pet parents to choose the best restraint option that their pet will easily become accustomed to and comfortable with while on the road. Be sure to give your pet time to get used to their new “buckling up” device before venturing out on a long car ride.

For instance, when choosing a travel crate, put the crate in your home with some of your pet’s favorite toys or a blanket inside to welcome him. Allow your pet to go in and out of the crate as he pleases. Then, once he seems at ease, place the crate in the vehicle and put your pet inside. Take it slow, with short car trips around town, and then gradually drive longer distances until your pet feels comfortable.

If you choose another option like a pet safety belt, allow your pet to wear the harness while at home. He needs time to become comfortable with this new device before using it in your vehicle. Similar to the travel crate, start out with short trips and slowly increase your travel distance. Whichever safety restraint you choose, the back seat or cargo area is always the safest place for your pet. When it comes to moving day, and every other day, plan for your pet’s safety and well-being when traveling in the car. Buckle up and secure the WHOLE family.

TripsWithPets.com is the premier online pet-friendly travel guide — providing online reservations at over 30,000 pet-friendly hotels & accommodations across the U.S. and Canada. When planning a trip, pet parents go to TripsWithPets.com for detailed, up-to-date information on hotel pet policies and pet amenities. TripsWithPets.com also features airline & car rental pet policies, pet-friendly activities, a user-friendly search-by-route option, as well as pet travel gear. For more information, please visit http://www.tripswithpets.com.

Unlike most dogs, cats typically aren’t fans of car rides.  Unfortunately, the majority of cats’ “car experience” is gained through visits to the vet.  So, it’s not surprising that they’re not happy car travelers.  Inevitably moving with your cat means a car ride – whether it’s long distance or short.  Planning and preparing your cat well before you move will help to ease his stress and who knows, he may even come to enjoy car rides!

Here are our top tips for helping your cat become more comfortable when riding in the car.

Acclimate Your Cat to Pet Travel Carrier
When traveling by car with your cat, it’s best to have him travel in a pet carrier.  Be sure to choose the proper sized carrier.  It should be large enough so your cat can comfortably stand up, turn around, and lie down. Allow your cat time to acclimate to his new carrier.  Start out by placing the carrier in your house with his favorite toys, bedding, and perhaps some treats or catnip.  Keep the carrier door open so your cat can meander in and out on his own terms.  Be patient and give him time to eventually become comfortable with his new carrier.  Make sure you are continuing this crate training while you simultaneously work on the rest of the tips.

Make the Car Their Territory
Cats are highly sensitive when it comes to their environment.  They are most comfortable in familiar surroundings and in their own territory.  Making the car part of their territory is key in your quest to making them happy travelers.  Grab a blanket that has your cat’s scent and place it on your car seat.  Get in your car with your cat, shut the door, and then let him explore.  Allow your cat to spread his scent around the car.  Start out doing this 2 – 3 times a day for just a couple of minutes.  Gradually increase the duration as your cat seems to feel more comfortable.

Car = Good Things!
After your cat starts feeling calmer in the car, it’s time for some positive reinforcement.  Begin feeding him in your parked car for a week or two.  For cats that are less food motivated, you might want to engage them in play or give them some catnip while in the car. The key is to get your cat to associate the car with good things.

Introduce Pet Carrier into CarWith time, your cat will start to think of the car as his domain.  Once that happens, he’ll be ready for the next step — and that’s to introduce his carrier into your vehicle.  Have your cat get into his carrier, then secure it in the backseat or cargo area of your vehicle.  Avoid placing the carrier near airbags.  The next step is to start your car but don’t drive anywhere.  Keep it in park just so your cat can get accustomed to the sound and vibration of your car.  Practice this “exercise” a few times daily until your cat feels more comfortable.

Start Off with Short Rides
When your cat is more at ease with your car and the engine noise, you can then take it out of  “park”.  Start out slow and short (very short).  Go back and forth, down to the end of your driveway and back again.  Repeat this a few times, then bring your cat into the house, let him out of his carrier and reward him (treats, playtime, etc..).  Gauge your cat’s comfort level.  When he’s ready, gradually increase the length and duration of your car rides.  Be sure to do this very slowly and reward your cat after each step.  

Stay Calm
Do your best to not let the stress of the move or the process of  “car training” your cat get the best of you.  Your cat senses your energy.  So if you’re anxious and out of sorts, your cat is likely to be as well.

Potty Time
In planning your road trip to your new home, you’ll want to think about bathroom breaks for your cat.  Believe it or not, some pet parents use harnesses and leashes for their cats.  This allows them to actually “walk” their cats at rest stops so they can relieve themselves. Since most pet parents use the more traditional litter box, it is recommended to limit your day’s drive time to no more than 8 hours.  This will allow your cat to potty in their litter box set-up at your night’s destination.  You know your cat best, so you can gauge how long he can comfortably “hold it”.

Ensuring that your cat is comfortable with car travel is a must when moving – particularly if it’s a long road trip.  Working with him so that he is acclimated to car travel will certainly take some time — so plan ahead, be patient and go slowly.  
TripsWithPets.com is the premier online pet friendly travel guide — providing online reservations at over 30,000 pet friendly hotels & accommodations across the U.S. and Canada.  When planning a trip, pet parents go to TripsWithPets.com for detailed, up-to-date information on hotel pet policies and pet amenities.  TripsWithPets.com also features airline & car rental pet policies, pet friendly activities, a user-friendly search-by-route option, as well as pet travel gear. For more information, please visit http://www.tripswithpets.com

Moving with your pet?  You got this!  With a little planning and preparation, your trip to your new home can be a pleasurable experience – free of worry, stress, and surprises.  One of the keys to “success” is ensuring you’ve got all your pet’s moving essentials ready to go.

1. Medical Records
   Be sure to get a copy of your pet’s medical records as your pet’s new vet will need this information.  If your current vet can electronically transfer the records – even better!
   
2. Pet Meds
   If your pet is on any special medication, refill his prescription and pack it in the car for your move. In addition, it’s a good idea to have an ample supply of preventative meds for heartworm and flea/tick.
3. “New” Pet ID Tag
   Get a new ID tag made for your pet with your new address and contact info.  Further, be sure to update your pet’s microchip information with your new address as well.  It’s important to get this done before you move.  Moving can be unsettling for pets — increasing the chance of them running off or getting lost.
   
4. Comfort Toys & Blankets!
   When moving with your pet, it’s all about making him feel at ease, happy, and safe.  Bring along his favorite toys or blanket for the car ride to your new home.  And have them readily available for your pet in your new place as well.  These familiar “comforts” will go a long way in helping ease your pet.
5. Pet Bed
   Who doesn’t like sleeping in their own bed?!  Pack your pet’s bed in the car so that he can use it for any overnight hotel stays along the way.  You’ll also want to have it ready for him at his new home — this will help him acclimate more quickly to his new surroundings.
6. Food & Water
   Pack enough pet food in the car so there’s plenty for the road trip and for at least a few days after you move into your new home.  Don’t be tempted to feed your pet some of your drive-thru burger or fries.  Any change in your pet’s diet, particularly during a road trip, can cause digestive upset.  Further, bring along some bottled water for your pet.  It’s important to keep him hydrated at all times.
7. Travel Bowls
   Don’t forget to pack your pet’s bowls in the car.  If you’re looking to save room (and if your pet is not finicky), you may want to consider collapsible pet travel bowls.
8. Pet Vehicle Safety Device
   It’s an absolute “must” to secure your pet in your vehicle with some type of pet safety device. Options include:  pet travel crates/kennels, pet seat belts, pet car seats, and vehicle pet barriers.  If your pet has never used a vehicle safety device, it’s important to get him comfortable with it well in advance of your move.
9. Vehicle Seat or Cargo Cover
   Having your car seats and interior protected from pet hair, muddy paws, and “accidents” is just one less thing to worry about during a move!  Car seat covers and cargo area protectors are available for any size vehicles – pick one up for peace of mind!
10. Waste Disposal Bags
    Also knowns as poop bags!  These are essentials to pack when you’re moving with your pet.  Not only will you need them to pick up your pet’s poop along the way, but your new neighbors will appreciate proper “poop” etiquette as well.

TripsWithPets.com is the premier online pet friendly travel guide — providing online reservations at over 30,000 pet friendly hotels & accommodations across the U.S. and Canada.  When planning a trip, pet parents go to TripsWithPets.com for detailed, up-to-date information on hotel pet policies and pet amenities.  TripsWithPets.com also features airline & car rental pet policies, pet friendly activities, a user-friendly search-by-route option, as well as pet travel gear. For more information, please visit http://www.tripswithpets.com

 

Whew!  You finally made it to your new home!  Now it’s time to unpack and get settled in, meet the neighbors, get to know your new hometown…and the new adventure list goes on.  While thinking about your family’s new surroundings, your four-legged family members need to be safe, secure and get acquainted with all that’s new in their world, too.

After the trip to your new destination, your pet will want to get acquainted with his new home.  Here are some tips for making sure your pet’s move-in experience is an easy one.

Secure Your Pet at Move-in

Just as on moving day, the best place for your pet during move-in is at a friend’s house or pet day care.  If that’s not an option, secure your pet in a quiet room with a “do not enter” sign on the door.  An alternative is to crate your pet in a less chaotic part of the house when belongings are being brought inside.  Be sure to check in on him frequently to ensure his well-being.

Prep Your Place

Your pet will really appreciate something familiar in this new space. Make him a little “relaxation corner” with unwashed items from your previous house, like a blanket, a dog bed, and toys. The familiar smell will help him cope and make him feel more at home.

Show Him Around

Take your pet for a nice walk around the neighborhood, and let him smell the smells and see the sights…and maybe meet some new friends along the way.

Give it Time

A move is a big deal for your pet, especially if it’s accompanied by a long journey and an extended break from his usual routine. If your dog seems out of sorts, somewhat sad, or uninterested in his new surroundings, simply gIve him some time.  Chances are he will eventually come around on his own terms.  Then you both can fully explore your new location, and enjoy your new home and your new life, together.   

Update Microchip and ID Tags

If your pet is microchipped, be sure to update your dog’s account with your new address. It is also a good idea to have an up-to-date photograph of your pet, in order to help locate him if he gets lost.  Moving into a new home and surroundings can increase the chances that your pet may get anxious and run off, so it is best to be prepared just in case.

Start a New Routine at Your New Location

There’s no doubt that there will be changes, for you and your pooch, when moving into your new home.  For your pet’s sake, it is best to try and maintain your same routine as closely as possible, so he will have some familiarity in this time of change.  If by chance you have moved to a new time zone, just pick-up from where you were before, and try to act like it is nothing new.  You can still take your pet out for his morning walk at the same time as before, even though it may feel early or late to him.  Don’t worry, he will adjust if you stick with the routine!

Find a New Veterinarian

It’s a great start if you have already received some referrals from your previous veterinarian, or checked into some new veterinarian options before you moved.  If not, you can ask other neighbors and pet parents for vet recommendations in your new hometown, and you can do your own research and find some online.  When you have a list, you can take your dog along to check out some of the vet options.  He can help you choose which is the best doctor for him.

Moving into a new home with your pet can be a great experience for the whole family.  Keeping your pet safe and secure on move-in day, and then checking out your new surroundings while maintaining a routine, will help him to easily warm-up to his new home.  Then, you can begin your new adventure in your new place together, and soon it won’t be your new home, it will just be “Home”.

TripsWithPets.com is the premier online pet friendly travel guide — providing online reservations at over 30,000 pet friendly hotels & accommodations across the U.S. and Canada.  When planning a trip, pet parents go to TripsWithPets.com for detailed, up-to-date information on hotel pet policies and pet amenities.  TripsWithPets.com also features airline & car rental pet policies, pet friendly activities, a user-friendly search-by-route option, as well as pet travel gear. For more information, please visit http://www.tripswithpets.com

Top Tips for Moving With Your Furry Family Member

There’s no way around it – moving can be stressful. Even more so if you’re a pet parent, and you’re concerned about how to keep your furry kid safe, happy and comfortable during the moving process. Fortunately, there are things you can do that will make your move much less worrisome, and more of an adventure to share with your pet.

Visit Your Veterinarian

Set up an appointment with your pet’s current veterinarian to get a thorough exam and ensure your pet is up-to-date on all vaccinations.  You’ll also want to stock up on any medications — including heartworm and flea/tick preventatives.  Additionally, depending on your new home’s location and laws, your pet may need extra shots and a health certificate.  While you’re there be sure to request a copy of all of your pet’s medical records to have on hand during travel, and to give to the new veterinarian you choose in your new home town.

Keep Your Pet Happy, Safe & Secure on Moving Day
From your pet’s perspective, moving day will be filled with strange noises, unfamiliar voices, and some commotion. It’s enough to make even the most easygoing of pets a little anxious.  Plus, with movers coming in and out of your home, it’s easy for your pet to slip out if he’s not somewhere safe and secure.

The best place for your pet on moving day is at friend or family member’s house. This way he’ll avoid all the moving day “excitement.”  Another great alternative is letting your pet spend the day at a doggie daycare or a boarding facility.

If those are not viable options, give your pet his own space in your house by keeping him safe and secure in an empty, quiet room, with a sign on the door that says “Do Not Enter”.   If putting him in a room isn’t possible, secure him in a crate.

Update Microchip and ID Tags

If your pet is microchipped, be sure to update your dog’s account with your new address.  It is also important to get a new pet ID tag. Having an up-to-date photo of your pet is always a good idea in order to help locate him if he gets lost in his new neighborhood.

Book Pet Friendly Lodging in Advance

If you are moving a long distance and there will be overnight stops, it is important to book lodging in advance to ensure there’s availability and that your pet is welcome.  You can even search by route to find pet friendly places to stay along your travel route.  If you’re in need of extended stay accommodations in your new town, be sure to book ahead as well.

Pack an “Overnight” Bag for Your Pet
Just as you pack an overnight bag for yourself, pack one for your four-legged family member.  Be sure your pet has all his essentials not only for the road trip, but enough to last him at least a couple days after the move. Some packing essentials include:  ample food, water, medications, bowls, collar/leash, favorite toy or blanket, and first aid kit.

Plan for Securing Your Pet in Your Vehicle

The rest of the family buckles up…so should your pet.  Determine the best way to secure your pet in your vehicle. Vehicle pet barriers, pet seat belts, pet car seats, and pet travel crates are all viable options that will help ensure your pet’s safety when traveling by car. The one you choose depends on your individual pet.  Whatever pet safety device you choose to properly secure your pet, it’s best to give your furry sidekick at least one month to familiarize himself with it.

If Flying, Book Early and Prepare Your Pet

If your move involves flying with your pet, be sure to check with the airline you are flying to familiarize yourself with their particular airline’s pet policy and guidelines. It’s also important to buy yours and your pet’s airline ticket early to ensure you get your preferred flight. During your pre-move vet visit, let your vet know that you will be traveling by plane with your pet, so that he can assess your pet’s health and provide you with a health certificate.   Airlines require a pet health certificate typically issued within 10 days of departure.

Prepare your pet for air travel by ensuring he has the proper pet travel kennel and is adequately familiarized with it.  There are many safety issues to consider when flying with your pet. To help ensure a happy and safe move,  it’s important to review these tips for flying with your pet.

Breathe

Moving has the potential to be a bit stressful.  Most pets (particularly dogs)  are energy magnets.  They sense if you are upset, anxious, or agitated.  If you’re sending out these vibes, your pet will pick up on them and he too will become more anxious.  But if you are calm, steady, and reassuring, you will take some of the burden of worry off of his shoulders.

The type of moving experience you have with your pet depends upon planning ahead, and “shaking off” the negativity if things don’t quite go as planned.  Follow these tips when moving to a new home with your pet, and your experience will likely be more of an adventure rather than a stressor!

TripsWithPets.com is the premier online pet friendly travel guide — providing online reservations at over 30,000 pet friendly hotels & accommodations across the U.S. and Canada.  When planning a trip, pet parents go to TripsWithPets.com for detailed, up-to-date information on hotel pet policies and pet amenities.  TripsWithPets.com also features airline & car rental pet policies, pet friendly activities, a user-friendly search-by-route option, as well as pet travel gear. For more information, please visit http://www.tripswithpets.com

Moving day can provoke a whole host of emotions – a little sadness, a little stress, and all of the excitement and anticipation that comes with embarking on a new adventure in life. Your pet will sense and feel all of your conflicting emotions, so it’s your job to keep her on the even keel – the best you can.

During the hustle and bustle of moving day, it can be easy to overlook your pet’s extra needs for safety and emotional security. Considering these needs beforehand (when you are not buried in boxes and cleaning supplies), and creating a plan to address them, is the best way to make moving day as safe and stress-free as possible for your pet.

Here are five tips for keeping your pet secure, calm, and reassured on the big day:

Breathe

Moving has the potential to be a bit stressful. Most pets (particularly dogs) are energy magnets. They sense if you are upset, anxious, or agitated. If you’re sending out these vibes, your pet will pick up on them and he too will become more anxious. But if you are calm, steady, and reassuring, you will take some of the burden of worry off of his shoulders.

Keep Your Pet Happy, Safe & Secure

From your pet’s perspective, moving day will be filled with strange noises, unfamiliar voices, and some commotion. It’s enough to make even the most easygoing of pets a little anxious. Plus, with movers coming in and out of your home, it’s easy for your pet to slip out if he’s not somewhere safe and secure.

The best place for your pet on moving day is at friend or family member’s house. This way he’ll avoid all the moving day “excitement.” Another great alternative is letting your pet spend the day at a doggie daycare or a boarding facility.

If those are not viable options, give your pet his own space in your house by keeping him safe and secure in an empty, quiet room, with a sign on the door that says “Do Not Enter.” If putting him in a room isn’t possible, secure him in a crate.

Keep Your Pet Occupied

If your pet stays home on moving day, there’s nothing like some mental stimulation to help keep your pet engaged. Set your pet up with a toy, TV, radio, or near a window — something that will keep him occupied and distracted during the move. This will help him “shut out” the noise and hullabaloo around him as he focuses on getting the peanut butter out of the kong or is mesmerized by the birds fluttering about on Nat Geo.

Maintain Your Usual Routine

Routines are very comforting for pets. Feed your pet at the same time as usual, and head out on walks at the same time as usual, taking the same routes you usually take. Again, it’s about letting her know that you will keep things stable and under control, which allows her to worry less.

Stay Vigilant

Keep an eye out for your pet at all times. There’s no guarantee that some well-intentioned person won’t open the crate to comfort or console her, or that a mover won’t ignore – or not see – your door sign. You will also want to check on her regularly, to ensure that she is safe and well, and to comfort her occasionally.

The easier moving day is on your pet, the more smoothly he will transition into life at your new place. He’ll eventually settle in, life will return to normal, and you’ll have a stronger bond for having weathered the adventure together.

TripsWithPets.com is the premier online pet friendly travel guide — providing online reservations at over 30,000 pet friendly hotels & accommodations across the U.S. and Canada.  When planning a trip, pet parents go to TripsWithPets.com for detailed, up-to-date information on hotel pet policies and pet amenities.  TripsWithPets.com also features airline & car rental pet policies, pet friendly activities, a user-friendly search-by-route option, as well as pet travel gear. For more information, please visit http://www.tripswithpets.com