What are some moving tips for family pets?
Moving cats and dogs via airplane requires some advance planning to ensure a safe and successful transfer. Here’s a quick checklist to help you answer some basic questions about moving a family pet.
Before The Move
- Check with the airline regarding regulations. Many require current health certificates and only allow shipment on a non-stop flight.
- Arrange for necessary immunizations. Ask how much time must elapse between shots; two or more appointments may be necessary. Check with your veterinarian and airline for standard waiting times between immunization and travel.
- Obtain shot and medication records from veterinarian.
- Ten days prior to departure obtain a health certificate from veterinarian.
- Purchase a carrying crate with a leakproof bottom and ample room for your pet to lie down, stand and turn around.
- Label the crate with arrows showing which side is up and the words "Live animal." Print the animal’s name, description, your name, new address and phone number.
- Eliminate stress by following the pet’s normal routine. Ask your vet about sedation for a traveling pet.
Moving Day
- Keep distractions to a minimum and remember to reassure the pet.
- Feed six hours prior to departure.
- Provide water until two hours before takeoff. If it is unseasonably hot, don’t withhold water prior to takeoff.
- Make the crate feel like home with soft pad, favorite toy or blanket.
- Give the pet a chance to run and play before placing it in crate.
- Make sure the pet is wearing an ID tag with its name, your name, new address and phone number.
