Moving Your Pet
Getting through the emotional stress of moving is difficult
enough for adults and children. But what about pets, a species
with whom we can't even level? Pet owners are often baffled by
their pets' behavior during and after a move. Sometimes it's a
personality change, a regression in housebreaking habits or a
sudden unexplained illness. Even if you don't notice something
that dramatic, there's no question that your faithful companion
is feeling stress. How do you move your pet and keep the strain
to an absolute minimum -- both to yourself and your beloved pet?
If you're planning a cross-country move by air, call the
airlines first -- before you make any reservations -- and find
out which ones allow pets as "animal passengers." Approximately
750,000 pets make airline trips every year. Most of the major
airlines, such as American, Delta, Continental and Northwest,
will allow animal passengers provided outdoor temperatures are
within a certain range. Pets may be brought on board with their
owners as "carry-on baggage," or placed within the cargo section
of plane as "checked baggage," weather permitting. Airlines also
have established regulations regarding the number of pets
permitted per flight, both on board and in the cargo section; as
well as number of pets permitted per passenger; and size and
weight limitations for carry on and checked baggage. If at all
possible, book a direct flight to avoid the additional stress of
plane changes.
If you're contemplating having your pet travel in the cargo
section of the plane, you may want to consider first that
because this area is in the belly of the plane, you won't have
access to your pet at any time during the flight. While the
cargo area is both heated and pressurized, this area isn't lit,
so unless you tranquilize your pet first, the experience is
likely to be traumatic. And you should note that the safety of
some varieties of tranquilizers has been questioned. These
substances can have a dramatically different effect upon your
pet at high altitudes.
The federal Animal Welfare Act defines the guidelines for the
transportation of animals by air, ground and water; however, as
an added protection, some airline carriers take a particularly
strict approach and require passengers to submit a certificate
of acclimation form signed by their veterinarians, permitting
the animal to be in temperatures below 45 degrees; as well as an
interstate health certificate.
As your moving date approaches, try to maintain your pet's
routine, including feeding, exercise and play times. When you
begin to box up your belongings, and particularly when the
movers arrive, you may want to consider recruiting a friend to
pet-sit to avoid undue stress for your companion. Make sure your
pet is wearing updated identification, and that you're carrying
some kind of identification for your pet, including recent
photos. If your pet escapes at any time during your move, you'll
be prepared.
Veterinarians also recommend that if you pack a water supply
from the home you're leaving. Changing water sources could cause
your pet stomach upset and ultimately, dehydration. Keep your
pet's food as bland as possible; this isn't the time to
experiment with new brands or varieties. Check with your vet for
his or her recommendations. Bring your pet for a thorough
physical exam prior to your move, and make sure you obtain your
pet's updated records from your vet. If your vet can't refer you
to a new health-care provider in your new hometown, call the
American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) at (800) 883-6301
for a list of local veterinarians in your new hometown.
Another tip: Several weeks before your move, find out what the
regulations are in your new home state regarding the importation
of animals. These laws often vary from state to state and even
among counties.
Coming next week: Stay tuned for some enlightening tips specific
to the moving of cats, dogs, birds and other small critters such
as gerbils and hamsters. Each one of these pets possesses a set
of personality characteristics unique to the species, and they
affect how well your pet is able to adapt to the moving
experience.
MoreMoving Advice