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What do I need to know about moving with pets?
Moving with pets presents many unique challenges. Since the average North American moves every seven years, and the life span of a dog or cat can be ten to twenty years, it is not uncommon for you to have to move a pet.
Moving is stressful for humans; it is also stressful for pets. Pets have a normal daily routine; they become familiar with their surroundings. When you move, their routines are interrupted, which causes stress for everyone.
It is also important to remember that pets require special moving arrangements, say the editors of Movers North America , North America's most informative on-line moving information website. Pets cannot be transported in the moving van, so it is best to take the pets with you in your car if possible.
It is possible to transport your pet by air. They can accompany you, or go as air freight if appropriate arrangements are made. We suggest that you contact your air carrier well in advance of the move. They may be able to provide counter to counter service, so your pet is carried by an airline employee from the counter to the airplane, and back at the end of the flight.
Consideration should be given for the care and feeding of the pet during the move. If it will be a five hour car ride, frequent stops should be planned. If you will be traveling with your pet by air, leave early so that your pet can eat and exercise and attend to other matters before boarding the plane.
If your pet will be traveling in a special container, allow your pet to become accustomed to it prior to the trip. This may involve letting your pet sleep in the crate for the week prior to the move, so that it becomes familiar. Having a favorite toy or other familiar object with them during the move is also helpful. The bottom of the crate should have sufficient padding to be comfortable for you pet, and adequate ventilation is essential, so only specially made pet traveling containers should be used.
Be sure that the container contains detailed contact information for you, including your cell phone and contact phone number in your old and new city.
We recommend discussing the move with your veterinarian prior to the move. The editors of www.vets-north-america.com remind us that arrangements for medication and other issues should be discussed with your vet well in advance of the move.
Motor vehicle transportation is much simpler, because you can stop frequently for “nature” breaks. Remember to never leave your pet in a vehicle in the hot sun. If you leave your car for more than a minute, take your pet with you.
Finally, check with your new home before you move to make sure that pets are allowed in your new building. With proper planning, moving a pet can be as stress free as possible. | 
