If you’re moving cross-country, bringing your pets along is an ideal way to make the transition smoother. However, it is essential that you follow all applicable procedures for transporting animals by car, plane, or train – no exceptions!
Nearly all states require dogs and horses to obtain an interstate health certificate prior to entry, with approximately half also requiring cats, birds and other pets. Advance receipt of these certificates by the destination state’s regulatory agency is a condition for entry.
1. Find a reputable pet transporter
When planning a cross-country move, shipping your pets can be an essential step. Whether moving to a different state or city, you need an experienced pet transporter who will take care of all the details and guarantee your pet’s safety and comfort during transit.
Before shipping your pet, it’s essential to understand the requirements of each airline and regulations that pertain to importing animals from foreign countries. In particular, TSA requires animals booked as cargo be transported via an approved shipper or freight forwarder. If this isn’t feasible, you may have to find a registered agent at your destination airport who can assist in securing necessary approvals for your pet’s flight.
To guarantee a smooth transition on moving day, it’s best to make all shipping arrangements well in advance. Doing this can save time and stress, especially if your move involves an extensive distance.
Before moving, it’s wise to have your pet examined by a veterinarian. This will allow the veterinarian to prescribe medication if needed or suggest sedation for any anxious pets.
Pets, especially larger breeds or those prone to motion sickness, require special handling in order to be transported safely to their new home. These animals should be secured in an appropriate carrier and may even be sedated if recommended by the veterinarian.
2. Make travel arrangements
To guarantee a stress-free transfer, prepare your pet for travel as far in advance as possible. A pet travel agent can assist with planning the move and making recommendations for reliable shipping companies. Some agents even provide the services of an accredited veterinarian to prepare your pet for travel as well as administer any necessary medical tests and treatments.
When moving with your pet, the most important step to take is ensuring they have all of their necessary vaccinations. It’s wise to have their rabies and distemper/parvovirus vaccines up-to-date as well. Your veterinarian can advise you on the most up-to-date and cost-effective vaccines for your destination country as well as suggest the right ones tailored towards your pet’s individual requirements.
Maintaining your pet’s health and happiness during a long cross-country flight is essential for their comfort, safety, and well-being during the transfer. Weather delays or flight cancellations can happen unexpectedly, so making sure they get enough food and water during their trip makes all the difference.
Planning ahead ahead for such occasions ensures they have an enjoyable, stress-free journey of their lifetime – taking extra steps now will guarantee this is achieved!
3. Prepare your pet for the trip
When traveling across country by train, bus, car or ferry it’s essential to prepare your pet in advance. Your furry friend will feel more at ease and relaxed during the journey if they’re well-fed and well-rested.
At least a week prior to your vacation, schedule an appointment with your veterinarian to review all health records. They can advise you on when it’s best for your pet to travel, which vaccinations they need, and any underlying health concerns.
Preparing your pet for travel is the most essential step. Make sure they’re healthy enough to travel; otherwise, they could need additional days in quarantine or be sent back home.
Your veterinarian may suggest having your pet’s blood tested and rabies certificate updated. This is particularly important if you plan to travel to countries with strict quarantine policies; if they’re not up-to-date on vaccinations or show any signs of sickness, they cannot enter the country and will have to be sent home.
When shipping your pet by air, pack their crate with absorbent bedding and attach a supply of dry food. Additionally, you can include a collapsible water bowl for on-the-go hydration.
Be sure to give your pet some physical exercise prior to taking off on the flight, so they can burn off some energy and sleep better during the journey. This will make them accustomed to their travel crate and more relaxed during flight time.
It is essential that your dog’s ID tags be attached to their crate and carried with you at all times. Doing this will enable the airline attendants to quickly identify your pet if needed.
4. Pick up your pet
When planning a pet transport, there are many elements to take into account. Most importantly, find the right company that specializes in pet transportation with experienced and bonded drivers. Make sure to inquire about their safety protocols and what type of vehicle they drive.
Additionally, make sure they can accommodate your pet’s individual requirements. For instance, you may want to look into using a pet express service if your furry friend is flying by air; conversely, shuttle services might be better suited for long road trips across America.
To find out, contact the pet transporter in question and request a free quote. Usually, you’ll get an answer within a few business hours, and if they cannot accommodate your needs they will direct you towards someone who can.
Your customer service rep may even have some recommended companies or names they have worked with previously. Ultimately, everything else will fall into place as your chosen carrier works together to guarantee your pet arrives safely at their destination.