Pet Moving Tips

Seven out of ten pet owners consider their pet part of the family.  Here are some tips for moving your pets to their new home.

Cats and Dogs
Cats and dogs can be taken in your car. If so, remember to take along the following items:

• Food
• Water
• A leash for letting your pet out of the car.
• Newspaper or sheets to keep your car clean.
• Animals can get carsick and will require frequent stops along the way.
• Make sure you 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 it shipped by air. Be sure to check if your destination has any local requirements or restrictions on animals. If you ship your pet by air, make sure someone can meet your pet at the destination airport and take care of it until you arrive. Kennels provide this service and if necessary can keep your pet until you have completed your move.

If you are flying to your new destination, your cat or dog can ride in the baggage compartment. You may need the following items:

• Health certificate, obtained from your veterinarian.
• Pet container. The airline will have a special container available or you can use your own as long as it complies with airline regulations.
• Tranquilizers. A vet can provide tranquilizers to be given to your pet immediately before going to the airport.
• Your scent. A pet can be comforted by having a piece of cloth with your scent on it.

Entry Requirements
If you move across state lines, call or write the State Veterinarian, State Department of Animal
Husbandry, or other appropriate authority.

Interstate health certificates must be obtained for dogs and horses prior to entering most states.
All but four states require a rabies vaccine for dogs and many require it for cats. Hawaii requires that cats and dogs be quarantined for 120 days.

Some pets must have an entry permit issued by the destination state's regulatory agency.
A few states have border inspection of all animals being transported; others have random inspections.

Smaller Animals
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.

Local Laws
Local communities have pet control and licensing ordinances. In some cases, the number of pets is limited.