Packing Tips:
Pets (our other children)
Before You Begin:
Use the proper packing materials. It will pay off in the long run! Sturdy boxes, packing tape, bubble wrap and packing peanuts can all be purchased at Storage Facilities, Home Depot, Staples and other shipping companies in your area. Other great types of reasonably priced padding for your boxes include wadded up newspaper, old pillows and blankets.
The following is a list of suggestions & items to make your pets move day go more smoothly:
-Pet Food
-Water (in an enclosed bowl or dish)
-Leash/Harness/Seatbelt
-Blanket/Newspaper (to keep your car clean)
-Pet Toys (of their choosing obviously)
-Your pets favourite radio station (you know who you are)
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Cats & Dogs
Animals can get car-sick and will require frequent stops along the way. Also, check ahead to see if the hotel where you are staying allows pets. Depending on the animal's temperament and size, it might be better to have them shipped by air. Be sure to check if your destination has any local requirements or restrictions on animals.
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Travelling by Air to your New destination
To have your pet shipped by air, make sure someone can meet your pet at the destination airport and take care of them until you arrive. A kennel can do this for you and keep your pet until you have completed your move, if necessary.
If you are flying to your new destination, your cat or dog can ride in the baggage compartment. You may need the following items:
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Health certificate. Obtain this from your veterinarian.
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Pet container. The airline might have a special container available or you can use your own as long as it complies with airline regulations.
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Tranquilizers. Your vet can provide tranquilizers to be given to your pet immediately before going to the airport.
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Your scent. Your pet can be comforted by having a piece of cloth with your scent on it.
Smaller Animals
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Hamsters, birds and other small animals can easily be transported in your car. To help keep the animals calm and quiet, cover cages with a cloth. Also, make sure they have food and water available.
Fish
It can be very impractical and risky to move fish. Check with your local pet store for recommendations on moving your specific type of fish.
Moving to a new destination
From experience, some pets (such as cats and dogs) will get their own types of anxieties whether it be going into a new home for the first time, or flying by air. Be sure to watch for signs of this, as it can take time for your pets to calm down after a move.
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For further tips or other questions about "packing" pets for your move, long or short distance, feel free to contact us by phone, email, text or by filling out a contact card on our website. We'll be happy to help anyway we can.
