Moving across the country is itself a challenge, but when you have to move with a dog, it becomes daunting. You’ll have to consider different options and choose the right one for your feline friend. Many NYC moving companies can help you with this move.
If you’re moving across the country with your pet for the first time, then it will take extra effort. But don’t worry, there is a solution to every problem, and here we’ll share some valuable tips for moving across the country with a dog. So, let’s get started.
10 Tips for a Successful Move across the Country with a Dog
Regardless of the reason for your move, follow these tips and make your move smooth and economical.
1. Take Your Dog to Vet
Across country moves are usually long-distance moves. Take your dog to the vet for a detailed examination. Ensure that your four-legged friend is fully vaccinated. Your dog might appear fit, but most health issues arise during the transit from one place to another. For example, if your dog is already under stress, it’s not a good practice to move with such a condition. Therefore, the vet visit before a move is essential. More importantly, you can take a health certificate from the vet that will help you later during the moving process.
2. Crate Train Your Dog
For a cross-country move, you need to use a kennel. Therefore, it’s essential to start crate training early. If you don’t do that and introduce a crate to your dog on a moving day, it will be another frightening aspect for your dog. The best way to do this is to start at least one month before the moving date. Remember, dogs don’t love to be in the crates, so they’ll show resistance, and you’ll have to stay patient. See here for the best heavy duty dog crates that are perfect for moving across the country.
3. Prepare a Separate Bag for Your Dog’s Items
When you’re moving with a dog, you need the following items regardless of whether you’re moving by road or plane.
- Water bottle
- Pet blanket
- Food and dishes
- Treats
- Toys
All these items are essential and can help you make your move smooth.
4. Be Aware of the Legislation
When you have to move with pets, especially across the country, you need to understand the legislation of the new state. Some countries don’t allow particular dog breeds to enter their country. Your new city might be one of them, so ensure that you do proper research before deciding to bring your dog with you.
5. Don’t Change Your Dog’s Routine
It won’t be easy to maintain your dog’s routine during the hectic moving process, but you’ll have to do it to avoid stress and anxiety. Ensure that you feed your dog at the time you were doing before. Moreover, take your dogs for exercise to keep them fit. Playing with a dog will ensure that dog is fresh and you can focus on your packing.
6. Consider a Pet Sitter
It might look expensive, but it’s the best approach to avoid any accidents. When you’re packing items, make sure that your dog is not at home. You can leave your dog at a friend’s house. You can also hire a pet sitter for a few days. If you can’t afford the sitter expenses, leave your dog there for at least the moving day.
7. Choose the Movers Wisely
It’s the most critical decision of the moving process. Whether you’re moving with a pet or alone, this decision can make a significant impact. Let your movers early about your dog and ask them if they have proper arrangements for carrying a dog. If your movers are not experts in handling pets, then move on and find the experienced one.
8. Put ID Tags
You might get busy in packing belongings, and your pet might escape from home. In such conditions, the ID tag can help you get your dog back. Tags contain all the information, so the person who’ll find your dog will contact you. For road trips, these tags are crucial. Sometimes dogs try to run during the moving day. If they do so, the ID tag will make sure that you get your pup back.
9. Take Frequent Breaks
Dogs need more bathroom breaks than humans. So, keep it in mind if you’re traveling by road. Try to stop after every two hours. It will not only help you relax a bit, but your dog will also feel easy.
10. Give Your Pet Time to Settle In
Moving can make your dog tense and nervous so after reaching a new home, give your dog some time to get back to a routine. Be patient and keep things normal. Otherwise, you can ruin all the efforts you make during and before the moving day. So, these tips can help you make your move with a dog less stressful.
