A 2018 survey by the American Pet Products Association (APPA) showed that 68% of American households own a pet — a significant increase of 56% since 1988. Of that number, 37% of pet owners travel with their pets each year.

Whether you’re going on a vacation or moving to another state, traveling can be very stressful for you or your pet if you are not prepared. If you plan to travel with your pets, you need to take steps to prepare them for the trip. In this article, we’ll provide you with a quick and handy guide for long-distance pet transport.

Here is list to make a long-distance journey with pet more enjoyable:

1. Train them for the journey
2. Visit the vet
3. Check local laws and regulations
4. Prepare for the trip
5. Keep your pet secure and comfortable
6. Consider pet travel insurance
7. Take breaks
8. Pick a travel option

1. Train them for the journey

Long car rides can be bad for dogs and other animals if they are not prepared. It’s important to get your pets accustomed to traveling longer in a car if you’re making a major move with them.

You can help your pets get used to the idea of traveling by taking them on shorter trips first. If you haven’t done this before, it’s the perfect opportunity to learn their behavior and level of patience when they’re cooped up in a car.

Common Issues and How to Avoid Them

Always bring a towel or blanket when traveling with a pet. This will absorb any mess if your pet vomits or experiences diarrhea. 

Pets undergo stress or boredom when traveling. You can prevent this by providing your pet with comforting items like a familiar toy or blanket. 

Both cats and dogs need to go to the bathroom around 3-5 times a day. When traveling long distances, you should let your pet get out of the vehicle every two hours. Most dogs and cats can go much longer without needing to go, but the shorter periods help decrease stress and allow your pet to stretch their legs for a moment.

Car Anxiety

Both cats and dogs experience car anxiety. If your dog is reluctant to get into the car and pants, drools, shakes, barks, or yawns in excess, they’re probably experiencing some form of anxiety. 

Cats express their anxiety through increased vocalizations, slight panting, and trembling. Unlike dogs, cats don’t get better at traveling in a car over time. Dogs, on the other hand, can be trained to enjoy car rides.

Learn More About Car Anxiety for Dogs

Motion Sickness

Both cats and dogs can get motion sickness. The only way to find out if your pet gets motion sickness is to observe them while driving for an hour or two.

Set your pet up for success by feeding them a consistent diet before traveling. The worst thing you could do is to switch their diet. That would disrupt their digestive system and increase the chances of your pet becoming sick while traveling. 

There are over-the-counter medications for motion sickness. Some of these include Benadryl and Dramamine. These products are antihistamines and some have sedative effects. Your vet can also prescribe sedatives or nausea medication specifically for animals. Always contact a veterinarian before administering any new medication. 

Improper Carrier & Safety

It’s tempting to let your dog or other pet into the backseat of the car without any restraints or restrictions, but it’s also very dangerous. If you crash, your friend will become a projectile and likely sustain life-threatening injuries.

Crates and carriers are two of the safest ways to travel with your pet. These containers, made from plastic, metal, or fabric, make a secure enclosure for the animal. You can also buy a booster seat for small dogs, or use a seat belt and harness to keep pets restrained. 

If you’re not using any of these, try to set limits on where your pet goes during the car ride. Don’t let your dog hang their head out the window, any sudden change in direction could cause a serious neck injury. 

You should train your dog to sit and lie down in the backseat. It’s unsafe for them to be standing or moving. Standing in the vehicle puts pets off balance and creates a distraction for the driver.

Try to avoid leaving your animal in the car alone for any period of time. The inside temperature of a car can fluctuate to deadly levels in under an hour, even if you have the windows cracked. 

How to Help Your Pet Enjoy The Ride, Here are Some Ideas

Many pets can learn to enjoy traveling, it’s up to the owner to make it a fun and comfortable experience. Since many car seats aren’t level, try to find or make a level area for them to rest. 

Treats will work miracles when training a pet to enjoy travel. Give your pet a treat for exploring the inside of your car. Encourage them with praise to lie down or sit in the backseat. This will fight against anxiety and promote positive feelings your pet has about the vehicle. 

When driving, pay close attention to your pet’s emotional triggers. This observation will help you plan for future travel when you can minimize exposure to the stressor.

2. Visit the vet first

Make sure your pets visit the veterinarian first for a general checkup, vaccinations, medications, or any documentation they might need. If you noticed any signs of motion sickness during the shorter trips with your pet, your vet could prescribe some motion sickness medication.

Microchip implantation

This is a quick procedure necessary for most pets. If your pet doesn’t already have one, long-distance travel will make a microchip almost mandatory. If you’re ever separated from your animal, the chip will provide your contact information to whoever recovers them. 

Vaccinations

Many international bodies require rabies vaccinations for both cats and dogs before travel. Updating your pet’s vaccinations before traveling is a smart preemptive step, especially if you’re traveling somewhere dangerous. 

Blood tests

If you’re unsure about your pet’s ability to travel, you can order a blood test from your vet. Blood work can identify disease and also evaluate organ function, hormone levels, and electrolyte status. These indicators can help establish if your pet’s physically ready to travel.  

Check for Parasites

Vets commonly diagnose parasites in cats and dogs through fecal samples. This is a simple procedure and can be finished within the same day of receiving the sample.

3. Check laws and regulations

Before hitting the road, make sure to review and understand all the regulations related to animals and pet ownership in your new state, city, apartment complex, etc.

Several states may require a health certificate from a vet. Some places have banned specific breeds of pets, so it’s essential to know this ahead of time. You can check the Department of Agriculture website to view some of these laws and regulations.

4. Prepare for the trip

Planning is the best way to make any long-distance trip more manageable. Take some time to plan out the following steps:

1. Pack Food And Water

Bring enough food and water plus a little extra in another container in case of spills or spoiling. 

2. Bring The Necessities

Take everything you need to make the pet feel like they’re at home, no matter the destination. Bring food and water bowls, treats, a leash, medication, favorite toys, and waste disposal items. 

3. Anticipate Accommodation Needs

Find and reserve pet-friendly hotels or B&Bs long before your trip. You should also have a list of stops to eat and take your pet for a walk. Leaving your pet in the car is unsafe and illegal in some areas.

5. Keep your pet secure and comfortable

Make sure your pets are safe and secure during the trip. You can buckle them in with a harness or dog seat belt. If they are in a crate, make sure it’s large enough for your pets to turn around in. Lay down a blanket or a pet bed to make the trip comfortable.

Crates and carriers enclose the animal while traveling, but there are slight differences. Crates traditionally are made of harder materials and are bigger than carriers. Carriers can be made out of flexible materials and are often used for short-distance travel with smaller pets.

6. Consider Pet Travel Insurance

Many people opt to purchase travel insurance for their pet. There are many types of plans that cover a range of injuries and ensure protection for pets during travel. Insurance packages cover specific periods and are flexible in price. 

7. Take breaks and stick to your pet’s routine

Pets like dogs usually urinate more during car rides because their anxiety levels are higher. Pull over every 2 to 4 hours to give them a chance to take a bathroom break and go on walks to lower their energy levels.

You should offer water to your pets at least once every hour so they won’t get dehydrated. Also stick to your pet’s normal feeding schedule so they won’t get hungry at odd times.

8. Pick a Travel Option

Automobiles and planes are the most common forms of pet transport. Traveling by automobile is less stressful for pets because it keeps them in contact with humans and allows for more breaks while in transit.

Travel by air is more expensive and stressful for the animal, but sometimes is necessary for long distances. Owners sometimes need to use a combination of both air and ground travel to escort their pet. Luckily, there are many companies out there providing long and short distance pet transportation.

How do I Transport My Pet for Long Distances?

Traveling or moving with your pets involves a lot of work, but that shouldn’t stop you from going on an amazing journey with your loyal companion.

With careful planning and dedication, you and your furry friend can get to your destination with no problems. If you’re moving, pet shipping services can help you relocate your animals seamlessly and safely.

Pet Van Lines is a pet transportation company that helps you transport your pets over long distances. If you want to learn more about our safe and hassle-free pet moving services, contact us today.

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Cats and dogs need a safe and comfortable space for transport, training, and habitation. Crates are sturdy, but are they necessary for local travel and trips to the vet? On the flip side, how reliable are carriers for long-distance travel and are they a good safe space for my pet?

Breaking Down the Differences

Pet carriers and crates serve different purposes. Your purchase depends on your kennelling needs.

Pet Carriers: Light and Mobile

Pet carriers are the lightweight and low-key option. Carriers are constructed from nylon and other soft and flexible materials. There are also plastic carriers with hard shells. Most carriers come with soft inner linings to ensure your pet is snug and comfortable. 

As their name suggests, carriers are easy to carry. They come with shoulder straps or handles made of nylon or leather. Some carriers are even designed as backpacks with double shoulder straps. Alternatively, you might prefer a single strapped, pet sling.

The average pet carrier is around 11 inches tall and wide, and 18 inches long. They often have multiple zippered pouches for storing accessories like your pet’s collar. Many have zipper locks so your furry friend stays out of trouble. Carriers have top and side openings, or both, making it easy to get your pet inside. Many dog and cat carriers have fashionable designs and decorations.

On average, pet carriers are less expensive than crates. A simple carrier retails as low as $20 USD, providing a stable platform, synthetic walls, and a shoulder strap or handles. More expensive carriers feature backpack and sling designs and luxury models with dual compartments, divider panels, and expandable sections.

As for airline travel, most travel carriers are acceptable as one of your carry-on items as long as they follow airline size requirements. This is a huge money-saver for people who travel with their pets.

Pet Carrier Pros

• Generally made of lightweight, soft materials
• Easy to carry
• Stylish
• Accepted as carry-on for airline travel
• Affordable
• Great for road trips; Will fit in the backseat of a car

Pet Carrier Cons

• Less safe for train, plane, or car travel
• Not suitable for larger pets
• Less room
• Not effective for training or use as a safe space for your pet

The Verdict:

Pet carriers are a perfect choice for people with smaller pets like cats or small dogs. If you have cats or puppies, it’ll be no problem popping them into their soft carriers. Then, you’re off to the vet, a friend’s place, or to catch a flight with no hesitation.

You might want to rethink, however, if your puppy will eventually grow out of its dog carrier, or if you have a large dog. Carriers only keep your pet secure if they fit well and fully protect them. Generally, carriers should have enough room for your cat or dog to comfortably turn around, curl up, and stretch out. It all depends on the cat or dog’s size.

Pet Crates: Sturdy and Multifunctional

Many pet parents are looking for more than a means of safe transportation. They also want a familiar place for their pet for crate training or a place to sleep at night. Pet crates shine in these circumstances when they double as pet homes and transportation devices.

Crates provide pets a den like space where they feel safe and calm. This is a perfect sleeping space, or somewhere to go when they are nervous or agitated. Many people choose soft sided crates so their pet will be as comfortable as possible.

Crates are the simple solution to traveling with your pet. If you store an animal in plastic crates, wire crates, or any other hard sided carriers, your pet will be better protected from any disturbance.

The price range for crates starts at around $50 and climbs to $300 for more high-end models. They can be made of wire, fabric, wood, or a combination of these materials. Most crates are box-shaped and have a swinging door at one side. Some models have multiple doors and others are designed like a dog house or a piece of furniture such as a side table.

With plenty of room and stable construction, it’s easy to add accessories to your crate. Many owners attach fans, pet food and water bowls, wheels, mats, and replacement pans. There are also crates with multiple compartments for people with several pets.

Pet Crate Pros

• Durable and spacious
• Secure for all types of travel
• Suitable for larger dogs or growing puppies
• Accommodates any size of dog or cat
• Provides a safe place
• Facilitates crate training and long-term kennelling

Pet Crate Cons

• More expensive than carriers
• Require more cargo area
• Made of harder, less comfortable materials
• Bulky and difficult to carry

The Verdict

For many dog owners, crates are a standard. They’re also the norm at dog kennels. Crates can be part of a dog’s lifestyle, providing a comfortable and stable area to rest. Crates are also a secure solution for aggressive dogs who need ample restraint. For both dogs and cats, you can rest easy traveling with your pet safely crated in their comfortable abode. 

That being said, crates are a pain to lug around. Plus, they might be more protection than you really need. Barring large pet owners, if you’re looking for sheer convenience, crates aren’t the best option for your best friend.

Decision Time: Crate or Carrier?

The decision is up to you, your lifestyle, and your needs. If you’re frequently traveling with a small pet and love versatility, carriers are a great option. The right carrier is convenient and comes at a low cost.

In the other corner, we have crates: the stalwart, at-home, safe space, and long-distance travel vestibule. The right crate is spacious, stable, and easily customizable. They can facilitate crate training, and give pets a cozy place to sleep.

FAQs

Is a pet carrier the same as a crate?

No. Pet carriers are made of soft materials and are best for small pets. Crates are largely made of hard materials and double as both pet transport devices and pet safe spaces. Carriers are singly purposed for pet transportation.

Do I need a pet carrier?

Pet carriers are recommended to those traveling significant distances with their pets. Carriers make it easier to move your animal and keep them safe. It’s important to note, however, that carriers are not mandatory for vet visits.

Pet Van Lines offers reliable and stress-free nationwide ground transport for dogs, with drivers trained in reducing dog anxiety. Get a free quote now for your dog’s safe transportation.

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While traveling with your pet is enjoyable, it also needs considerable planning and preparation to guarantee that everything runs smoothly and that everyone is safe and happy.

Pet Van Lines has compiled a list of five common pet-travel mistakes to ensure that the trip with your pet goes well.

5 Pet-Travel Mistakes Every Pet Owner Should Avoid

Forgetting to Update Pet ID Tags

When traveling with a pet, there’s always the possibility that the pet will become separated from you and become lost. A durable pet collar and ID tag with updated contact information is your pet’s best hope of quickly reuniting with you, and a microchip with current contact information is a valuable backup since the collar may come loose over time.

Consider having your pet microchipped before going on a trip if you haven’t already. Your veterinarian will inject a computer chip the size of a grain of rice under your pet’s skin. In the event that a missing pet is found, the chip has a unique number that a veterinarian may lookup in an owner database.

Also, put a label on your pet’s carrier that includes your contact information as well as your travel destination. Bring or keep a recent photo of your pet on your phone in case you need to share or print it.

You Disrupted Your Pet’s Schedule

Some animals, especially dogs, thrive on following a routine. Dogs can succeed when they understand what you expect of them, therefore, routine, exercise, and rules are essential in keeping them from behaving badly.

When traveling, do everything you can to keep their routine consistent, including meal times, exercise, walks, and potty breaks. Routine and structure will reassure your pet that everything is fine, allowing them to feel secure and at ease even in unfamiliar surroundings.

Leaving Pets in a Car

As any pet owner knows, it’s a horrible idea to leave pets inside the car on a hot day. However, it’s tempting to leave your pet for a few minutes when you’re in a new place and merely need to get something to eat or fuel up.

Pets should never be left in a car. Temperatures inside a car can reach nearly 100 degrees in 20 minutes, even on a beautiful 70-degree day. Instead of leaving your pet in the car, choose a pet-friendly stopover and appoint someone to hold pets on a leash or carrier outside, or have lunch from a drive-thru.

Forgetting to Search a Veterinarian in Case of an Emergency

Always be alert for unforeseen events. Pets can get into accidents or ingest food that could be harmful to their health, necessitating immediate medical attention.

Find a 24-hour veterinary clinic at your destination before you get on the trip. If you’re taking your pets on a road trip to a national park or a remote locale, the nearest veterinarian may be hundreds of miles away. For quicker access, save the contact information to your phone.

Not Checking Your Accommodation’s Pet-Related Rules

Even after you’ve figured out whether your pet can stay with you, you need to consider what other policies they have. Most hotels that allow dogs still require that you don’t leave them alone at any point, which may be a problem if you’re planning on being out at other non-pet-friendly places. Make sure to inquire about any pet amenities available on-site or nearby, such as grassy spaces or a dog park.

You might also want to look at Airbnb rentals. Most homeowners offering their homes for rent are pet lovers themselves. This will be beneficial to you since you’re sure that your pet is welcome and you can get friendly advice from a local.

Reliable Pet Transportation Service

If you avoid these common pet-traveling mistakes, your trip will be stress-free and pleasurable for everyone.

We would also recommend shared pet transportation services. It’s a popular service at Pet Van Lines since it’s cost-effective without sacrificing the pet’s comfort and safety. They’ll have as much fun as if they were transported privately.

Fill out our online form or call us at (832) 729 – 7192 or for a free quote.

The post Common Mistakes to Avoid for A Safe Trip With Your Pet appeared first on Pet Van Lines.

Experts recommend starting with shorter trips to train your pets to travel in a car. There’s also the concern of entertaining your pet along the trip. Just like kids, your pets may show impatience when it comes to being locked up in a vehicle for hours.

Pet Van Lines has compiled a list of activities you may do to pass the time and keep your pet from feeling like they’re in a mobile kennel.

4 Tips to Entertain Your Pet During a Long Trip

Talk to Your Pet

While talking with your pet may seem strange at first, the good thing is that they respond to their names and the sound of their owner’s voice. Consider how you communicate with your pets at home; you can do the same on the road.

Talking with your pet about where you’re headed and how much excitement you’ll have once you arrive is a wonderful way for both of you to pass the time. When you’re talking to your pet, keep repeating their name to keep both you and your pet entertained.

Take Breaks on Stops

The general rule of thumb for traveling with pets is to take a break every two hours (unless they need more frequent bathroom breaks), so your pet can relax and stretch its legs, go for a short walk and take a break from being confined in the car.

You can stop at open spaces where other people stop so your pet can meet and play with other pets on your way to your destination. After a long day of driving, make sure you secure pet-friendly lodging so you can provide your pet with a home-like environment.

Give Toys and Treats

Toys can keep your pet entertained for hours, so bring some of them together with your pet’s other necessities. If possible, get some new toys for your pet before the trip because new things excite them.

Comforting Your Pet

It’s important to make your pet as comfortable as possible throughout your road trip. So, before you get on the road, make your car feels like home.

If your SUV has a pet barrier, bring your pet’s bed from home to use as a resting place. Bring your pet’s crate and allow it to spend time in it if you don’t have a pet barrier. Crate-trained pets will love the convenience of having their own small home on the road.

Your cozy sweater will suffice if you don’t have a pet bed for your pet. This provides them comfort and some peace of mind because they feel like you’re hugging them.

You should also bring any blanket that your pet uses at home. The goal is to make the car seem and feel as close to its actual home as possible. While this may not be entertaining, it does make them happy. A happy pet on a long trip makes a happy pet owner.

Trusted Pet Transport Service

Make sure you have everything you’ll need for a fun trip and vacation with your four-legged companion. Your pet may not be used to traveling as much as you do. So, prepare them for the trip and allow them to enjoy it as much as you do.

If you’re on a budget but don’t want to sacrifice your pet’s comfort and safety, consider Pet Van Lines shared pet transportation that specializes in nationwide pet moving service. It allows your pet to share a comfortable, climate-controlled vehicle with another pet they’re sure to get along with. Contact us today at (832) 729 – 7192 or fill out our online form for a free quote.

The post Ways To Keep Your Pet Entertained on a Long Car Trip appeared first on Pet Van Lines.

Your pet may love driving and going to new places, but a long-distance journey is a different matter altogether. They’ll stay in a vehicle for a much longer period than a drive to the park. More importantly, your pet will be separated from you; they’ll either be in the company of a stranger or alone in a cramped compartment.

It’s important, therefore, to prepare your pet properly. If they aren’t ready, they might be disoriented or, worse, get sick. Pet anxiety may also lead to undesirable behaviors.

To help you with your big move to another state, Pet Van Lines compiled a simple guide for transporting your pet comfortably and safely to your new home.

Make Sure Your Pet is in Shape

Pets with a healthy weight are more suitable for long-distance travel. However, the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention reports that in 2018, 36.9% of dogs and 25.7% of cats were classified as overweight. Additionally, 18.9% of dogs and 33.8% of cats were classified as obese.

If a pet is overweight, it’s more difficult for their bodies to regulate temperature, resulting in stress and dehydration in transit. In contrast, a healthy pet has increased stamina, which will help them adjust to new environments.

Plus, it’s much more fun to have a healthy pet during the summertime. If your pet is strong and agile, you can make the most of the sunshine and outdoor play in your new address.

If your pet falls into the overweight or obese category, tell your veterinarian about your plans to move to another state. They’ll help you get your pet in shape through:

• Lots of exercise before the big move
• Controlled portions during meals
• More water and fewer treats
• More mindful pet food choices
•  

Prepare the Requirements

The requirements vary from state to state, but most require a Certificate of Veterinary Inspection (CVI), an Official Health Certificate (OHC), and rabies vaccinations.

• CVI – This is issued by an accredited veterinarian. A CVI proves that your pet is in good health and doesn’t carry illnesses that might harm the people or animals in the destination.
• OHC – Like a CVI, an OHC is issued by an accredited veterinarian and proves that your pet is fit for travel.
• Rabies Vaccinations – Some states only need a CVI to check the pet’s rabies vaccination. However, some states require a rabies tag, which bears a unique serial number.

If you work with Pet Van Lines, we’ll assist you in gathering the right documents for your pet’s transport.

Choose a Good Transport Option for Your Pet

Your pet is part of your family and deserves the safest and most comfortable pet transport service.

Airlines offer the most convenient interstate movement, but they’re not the most comfortable option. Airplane rides come with extreme temperature and pressure changes that may disorient your pet. Moreover, they’re confined to a small space for a long time. If you have an active and playful pet, they won’t be happy in the cramped container.

As much as possible, Pet Van Lines recommends ground transportation.

• Trained Personnel. In ground transport, your pet won’t be alone. They’ll be accompanied by licensed drivers trained to handle pets in transit.
• Potty Breaks and Exercise. Ground transport allows for potty breaks and walks.
• Comfort Items. You may send your pets with their favorite toys, blankets, and snacks to ease the anxiety during the ride.

Pet Van Lines is dedicated to providing safe and comfortable long-distance travel for your pet. Simply tell us your requirements, and we’ll arrange a pleasant interstate move for your best buddy.

Plan for the Busy Unpacking Days

The work doesn’t stop once you’ve transported your pet and possessions to your new home in a new state. For the next couple of days, you’ll be unpacking things, assembling and moving furniture, installing locks, and cleaning the entire house.

As such, you might not have the time to drive your pet to their new daycare or grooming salon.

Pet Van Lines knows how busy the post-move week can be. That’s why we also offer pet-friendly taxi services. We help pet owners ensure their buddies’ needs are met promptly.

Our pet cab services include dropping pets off, waiting, and picking them up from:

• Pet care facilities
• Vet appointments
• Pet grooming salons

Start Preparing Today

Let Pet Van Lines reduce the stress of moving from one state to another. Get a free estimate today!

Request a Quote

The post Crossing State Lines: How to Move Your Pet from State to State appeared first on Pet Van Lines.

But the state was struck by widespread power outages and lack of water supply. Shelters eventually found themselves exhausting their resources and filling their spaces to overcapacity. The need to transfer animals to other shelters outside the state became urgent.

However, a different problem also presented itself at that time: Is it safe for cross-country pet transport in that weather using only private vehicles or non-professional transportation?

Why Professional Pet Transport is Important

The storm has long passed, and Texas is now seesawing between dry and rainy, but the lessons from Uri remain. Animal shelters now know that the answer to the question above is no.

When bringing animals for long-haul drives, proper precautions must be taken to ensure their safety. The right transport service is important for the journey.

This is because traveling long distances is uncomfortable for dogs and cats. And if the transport handlers are not professional and trained, they could make mistakes that will harm the animals. Here are a few examples of improper handling of animals during transport:

Sedating the animals

Sedating pets for long-distance travel is not advisable, but some pet transporters are uncomfortable having moving animals on their vehicles while on the road. So, they inject tranquilizers to keep the furry creatures still.

There’s nothing wrong with doing so—if they know the correct dosage. Amateur animal transporters may not have the right training to administer the right sedative. Trained professionals are more adept at handling anxious pets.

Using the wrong carrier

The carriers used to transport pets are different from what you would normally use at home. Amateur transporters, however, might not know this and might use a regular carrier, which isn’t sturdy enough for long-distance travel. The wrong carrier will not be good for the animals.

Putting animals in shared transportation

The winter storm and its effects put a time crunch on transporting pets across state lines. It meant shelters had to transport different breeds and species together. Professional shared animal transport services do this efficiently, avoiding problems that usually arise when multiple animals travel together. Non-professionals will have a difficult time.

Skipping important paperwork

Some amateur pet transporters may be unfamiliar with the paperwork requirements or processes of different states. It could lead to missing information, improper documentation, and other issues that may delay the move. Considering the severity of the situation, any transport delays could be harmful to animals and burdensome to shelters.

Pet Van Lines: Safe Animal Transport for Your Shelter

If your animal shelter requires transport services, Pet Van Lines is ready to help. Our pet transport service specializes in long trips. All our team members are trained to move dogs and cats, ensuring their safety and comfort during the journey.

Whether you face another threatening storm or a loving family in another city wants to adopt your furry creatures, get your animals to safety through professional pet transport. Get in touch with Pet Van Lines today to book their trip.

The post Cross-Country Pet Transport: Learning from the Texas Storm appeared first on Pet Van Lines.

1. Before Moving Dogs and Cats, Take Them to the Vet

Have you ever traveled while feeling unwell? Illness can make a trip long and miserable. If you’re moving, your dog or cat might sense that something is going on. But it doesn’t fully understand what’s happening. A few months in advance of your move, ensure your pet is healthy. A trip to the vet will help prepare your pet dog or cat for transport and prevent an unknown illness from making the trip miserable. Many pet owners’ checklist includes the following:

• Vaccinations
• Health certificate if you’re using a pet moving service
• Veterinary records to transfer to your new location
• Getting the pet microchipped, as recommended by the American Kennel Club, so you can locate your pet if it escapes during the move
• ID tags with your new address

2. Ensure Your New Home and Location Are Pet Friendly

Are you planning on buying a new home and moving your cat or dog with you? Before you look for your dream home, tell your realtor about your pets—and ask about community restrictions for dogs, cats, or other pets. Be sure that your new location is pet friendly—and friendly for the types of pets you own.

Ask questions before you buy, lease, or rent to determine if your pet is welcome. It would be stressful for you to move a long distance and hire a transport service for dogs or cats only to learn that your new location won’t allow your pet. Federal housing and disability laws prohibit bans against service pets.

But it’s wise for all pet owners to ask about general restrictions before you move.

• Home-owners association – Ask if the home-owners association has any of the following restrictions or requirements for dogs or cats:
  • Type or breed
  • Size or weight
  • Number of pets allowed
  • Outdoor requirements for pets while they are on your property or walking with you in the neighborhood
  • Verification of license, vaccination, or identification
• Renting or leasing contracts – Review your contract for the following requirements:
  • Monthly fees for pets
  • Restrictions on the type of pets, breeds, size, weight, or the number of pets allowed
  • Verification of the status of your pet’s health
  • Rules for leashing or confining your pet when it’s outdoors

3. Need Time to Adjust Before Transporting Your Dog or Cat?

If you’re moving unexpectedly or if you need time to adapt to your new home or schedule, you might relocate before the rest of your family or your pets. If moving your cat or dog isn’t wise at the time you move, arrange for your pet to stay in a safe, calm environment. And know who will be in charge. Entrust your pet to a sitter with these qualifications:

• Mature – Leave your pet with a responsible adult who has good judgment in an emergency. Thinking about the types of emergencies that can arise, as recommended by the American Veterinary Medical Association, can help you choose a mature sitter for your pet.
• Attentive – Your pet’s sitter must be willing to feed, exercise, and bathe it regularly.
• Reliable – Anyone in charge of your pet should know its location when it’s indoors or outdoors.
• Communicative – When your pet sitter is willing to update you on your dog or cat’s well-being, it puts your mind at ease.
• Pet lover – Your pet dog or cat can be stressed if it’s temporarily left behind. But the tension will be eased if you find someone who loves pets and will give your cat or dog the comfort and care it deserves.

If you select a sitter carefully, it will help your pet remain as calm as possible when it’s time to travel with a transport service for dogs or cats.

4. Prepare a Comfy Place Before Your Pet Arrives

Have you ever arrived at your accommodations after a long trip, only to find that the place is unclean, not ready for check-in, or sold out? If you’ve arranged for a dog or cat moving service, you agreed to a date and time for your pet to arrive at your new home. Prepare well. Need some ideas for your checklist?

• Have a familiar blanket or toy ready for your pet dog or cat.
• Decide where you want your dog or cat to sleep.
• Choose a location for your cat’s litter box or where your dog will do its business outside.
• Buy your pet’s favorite food and snacks.
• Be prepared to spend time with your dog or cat when it arrives instead of needing to run errands and neglecting your pet.
• Create a calm, welcoming environment to help your dog or cat adjust quickly.

5. Select a Pet Transport Service in Advance

Don’t wait until you’re ready to receive your dog or cat at your new location before arranging for pet transport services. Research a few companies in advance to find one that provides the dog or cat moving services you need. And ask what’s required of you for a company to transport your pet. Prepare your questions in advance. You might include items from this list:

• What types of animals do you transport?
• Do you have restrictions for moving specific dog or cat breeds?
• What information do I need to verify my pet’s health before you transport it?
• What is the cost? Are there additional fees?
• Do I need to provide a crate or carrier for my dog or cat?
• How frequently does your pet transportation service feed and exercise pets while traveling?
• How often will you update me with the status of your travel and my dog or cat’s well-being?

Transport Your Dog or Cat with Pet Van Lines

If you’re relocating, don’t neglect your dog or cat. Prepare your checklist:

1. Schedule an appointment for a checkup at the vet.
2. Ensure your new location is pet friendly and doesn’t restrict your pet’s size or breed.
3. Decide if you need time to adjust before your dog or cat arrives.
4. Prepare a comfy place before your pet arrives.
5. Select a pet transport service.

Pet Van Lines has more than 15 years of experience in moving cats, dogs, and other pets. An attentive, pet-loving driver will transport your pet in a climate-controlled environment. Tell us about your dog or cat and its personality and quirks. And we’ll work to accommodate it and give it a stress-free ride to your new home.

Call us with questions or complete our contact form. Visit the photo gallery on our website to see some of our relaxed travelers riding in style.

The post Dogs and Cats – 5 Ways to Relocate Them Without Regrets appeared first on Pet Van Lines.

You may be considering using an airline.  When you do your research you will find that unless the animal and its carrier are small enough to fit under the seat, they will be relegated to the cargo compartment.  There is no one to watch them, comfort or be with them.  If something untoward happens, the airline will very likely decline responsibility.

Another option would be to have a friend or relative drive them to the new location.  Most laypeople are not aware of how best to handle situations like temperature extremes or elevation.  Our handlers receive training on how to make sure the climate control of our vehicles are set appropriately for the type and breed of pet we are transporting.  We also provide instructions and regulations about dealing with moving through mountains or areas well below sea level.

Looking for Pet Transportation Services ?

When you are looking for a pet transportation service, check out Pet Van Lines.  We are able to service the entire contiguous 48 United States.  Although we are able to transport almost any type of domestic animal, we specialize in cats and dogs.  Cats are more comfortable in the spacious carriers we provide and always have clean litter boxes available.  Dogs get a break every four hours to accommodate potty breaks and get a little exercise and fresh air.  We are truly concerned about the welfare of the four legged friends we convey from one destination to another.

One of our services involves dealing with rescue cats and dogs and moving them safely to their new forever homes.  We have experience and understanding about the special handling necessary when working with the stress that can affect these animals.  Not all pet transportation services can say that.

Especially with military reassignments, travel time can be tight.  Many employers require their personnel to relocate quickly.  With Pet Van Lines we are able to work with your schedule to arrange the best fit for the transportation services you need.

So, if you are looking for the best pet shipping service, contact us at Pet Van Lines.  We are happy to work with you to help move your companions to their new home in the best possible manner.

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The post What are the Costs Involved in Transporting a Pet? appeared first on Pet Van Lines.

If you are planning to use a pet transportation service, there are some things you might want to keep in mind.

Finding a Pet Transportation Company

Find a company that is a professional in the industry.  Trusting your pets to your somewhat weird cousin or even a friend may not be better than working with a company that has provided this service for years and hires employees who are genuinely concerned for the welfare of your pets.  The drivers should be used to long drives and understand solid techniques to keep your furry or feathered friends happy and comfortable.  They should operate good quality vehicles that are climate controlled and show the expertise necessary for a safe move.

Verify the services they provide and make sure they will be able to handle any of your pets’ quirks or temperaments.  Transporting animals can be complicated and it is important to know that the company and its drivers are fully capable to handling any unusual situation.  Experience is the best indicator and years of successful service are critical.  Read the testimonials and any reviews.

Talk with them voice to voice.  Are they friendly?  Do they seem overwhelmed and pressed for time?  Do they offer advice or suggestions?  Are they responsive to your questions?  In the long run, let your instincts be your guide.  The cost is, of course, a factor, but the intrinsic well-being of your four-legged family is at stake.

Contact us at Pet Van Lines.  We are happy to discuss our service options and how we can help you make the travel of your pet or pets more comfortable for all involved.  Start with the handy form on our website.  One of our service representatives will be glad to speak with you at your convenience so that you can find out about us and we can obtain the necessary information to be sure your pets arrive safely at their final destination.

The post Pet Shipping – Things You Need to Know appeared first on Pet Van Lines.