How To Move Pets Across Country
When you are moving from one part of the country to another, you bring all your most precious items with you. That includes your pets. However, moving your pets across the country can be a bit difficult if you have never done it before.
If you are driving across the country with a dog or cat then think of it like driving with a toddler that had huge amounts of energy but can’t communicate properly. You need to be able to anticipate their needs.
If your pets are mammals (warm-blooded, furred, and cuddly) then they need frequent water stops, food stops, and definitely bathroom breaks. These need to coincide with their regular feeding times.
If you start overfeeding or underfeeding your pet during the car ride, they may become sick.
Every two hours or so make a stop. Put your dog or cat’s harness on and take them for a quick bathroom and leg-stretch. Don’t forget to clean up after yourself!
Animals are as prone to blood clots as humans are when they are prevented from walking and moving around as normal. Therefore, these leg-stretch breaks are crucial to keeping your pet healthy and happy.
Reptiles
If you are driving across the country with a reptile you need to take extra care. Reptiles like snakes, tortoises, and lizards cannot control their own body temperature and will suffer severely if their thermoregulation regime is disrupted.
Make sure their enclosures are stored appropriately in the car and they are secure. You must ensure that their heat and water source are monitored throughout the trip. Avoid feeding them for five to ten days prior to the big drive.
Birds
Moving with birds is trickier than moving with mammals but less tricky than moving with reptiles. A bird’s heart can beat so fast in times of stress that it can suffer heart attacks from being in an unfamiliar environment for any length of time.
Keep the car quiet and calm during the drive to reduce stress. Keep the cage covered for most of the journey but check in every now and then so that your bird is reassured of your presence.
You must make sure that they have sufficient fresh water and air to be comfortable.
If you are flying across the country then the best course of action is to get in touch with an agency that moves your pet for you. They are experts in the field and will ensure your pet’s health and safety for you.
Just because you are moving, doesn’t mean you should leave part of your family behind. Taking your pet with you across the country does not need to be scary or incredibly expensive. Your biggest concern must always be their health.
