Moving Cross Country with Pets
As a renter we often find ourselves hopping from one house to another. Sometimes we find ourselves packing our entire life away and hauling it across country. This can be an extremely stressful, exciting, and scary time in your life. You’re stepping into the unknown, one mile at a time. It’s also a great time to shed off the extra clutter and start fresh. The less you have, the less stress the move is, from my experience.
My biggest concern however, was the safety of my pets on our 4 day, 2,200 mile road trip. While moving across the country is stressful and chaotic enough, doing so with a pet can be enough to drive you insane. As a budget mover, we couldn’t afford to hire movers and catch a flight with all four pets in tow. Plus, I’ve read so many horror stories of what happens to pets while in cargo, I just rather have my eyes on time at all times. Here are some tips of how two young adults, two 60 lbs dogs (Siberian Husky and an Aussie mix), an African Grey Parrot, and a 15-year-old Cockatiel made it without any hiccups across country.
1. Car & pet exams. Its always better to be safe than sorry. Get your car checked out by your trusted mechanic before you embark on your journey. Make sure you let them know about your massive trip so they know what kind of check-up to do. You would hate to have a blow out in the middle of nowhere. Besides, that’s how all scary movies begin. Take your pets to see their veterinarian one last time before you leave. Have your vet print all former files for your new vet’s records, update your pets on its shots and to ensure your animals are good to go.
2. Travel kit. Your pet’s will need their own ‘overnight’ bag. Pack appropriately based on the type of pets and length of trip. Include in their tote: food in Ziplock bags, bottle water, travel-friendly bowl(s) and a pet first aid kit. Also bring along a toy or treat that you know will occupy their time for a while. I gave my dogs a long lasting bone that they gnawed on for 4 days. You’ll also want to bookmark MyVeterinarian.com, as that site will lead you to members of the American Veterinarian Medical Association (for emergencies), based on city, state and ZIP code.
3. Pencil in potty breaks: For your sanity and your dog’s bladder, plan ahead for potty breaks. I recommend stopping every 4 to 8 hours. A quick potty break and drink of water will keep your dog comfortable. Also you will appreciate the fresh air and stretching your legs. You can even get creative and mark your stops at national parks! For cats you can dispose of your cat litter waste at gas stations or rest stops.
4. ID your pets: Travelling across the country opens you and your pets up to a greater risk of accidents. Among these accidents is the potential of your animal getting lost (or even stolen). Do yourself a favor and keep all identification on your pets at all times. For my dogs I kept a bright orange harness on them with ID tags with their name, my last name, my number and that they are microchipped. Consider microchipping your animals, as tags and collars have a way of separating from pets (particularly if your pet is stolen). Cats should have their collar with tags on as well. A bell would be a good idea; incase they escape at least you can hear them. For small pets such as birds or rodents, write your contact info on their carrier.
5. Keep it comfy: Make sure everyone is comfortable. If you have to take your car instead of towing it, do so. The floors of moving trucks gets very hot therefore possibly endangering your pet. Our dogs had a blanket in the back seat and a bone to chew on the whole way. Needless to say they slept the majority of the time. We put the birds in separate small cat carriers with a perch, toy, water, & food. Cats will do best in a cat carrier preferably big enough to fit a small litter tray.
6. Nutrition: The time zone changes but not your pets internal clock. Try feeding them as usual. My dogs free feed so I left a bowl full of kibble in the car and encouraged them to eat in the morning before taking off or at night. Don’t freak out if your pet doesn’t eat much while on the road. Most pets stress out due to the sudden change and new smells. Keeping them hydrated is key. Pack a couple gallons of water to ensure good water quality. Let them have a sip at each stop.
7. Pet friendly hotels: After 6-12 hours of driving, you need a break! If you are not camping, then a pet friendly hotel is your next option. Map out and book ahead for pet friendly hotels. This will help break apart your drive time and ensure you have a place to stay. La Quintas are pet friendly, affordable and no pet fees. Some Staybridge Suites, Marriot and Candlewood hotels are pet friendly. Always call to verify. I recommend using www.bringfido.com to find near by pet friendly hotels.
8. Take your time: While it’s a challenge, moving across the country with your pet is doable. It takes a fair amount of preparation, as well as empathy for your animals. So long as you know what to expect, and plan for the unexpected, you’ll soon be dipping your toes in an entirely different ocean. Just take it easy and don’t rush. Accidents happen when you’re in a hurry. Take it hour by hour, enjoy the new sights and smells, put on some good jams, and explore the local shops because it’ll all soon be over. I can sum it up with one statement: It was an adventure that I wouldn’t be quick to repeat; but one I wouldn’t trade for the world.
