Recently, quite a few of our long distance customers have asked if Moving On Up™ can relocate their dogs or cats in our moving vans and interstate trucks. It is not safe nor legal to move pets in the back of our hot and enclosed trucks, nor would it be very comfortable! Federal regulations prohibit any moving company from moving live animals or plants, and for good reason. So how, do you ask, should you move your pets? The following is Moving On Up's two cents on animal shipping.
Before You Move: Preparing Your Pet
Make Sure Your Friend Can Move Too.
State Regulations: Different states have different regulations on what animals (or plants, for that matter) can cross their state lines, such as California, so be sure to check with the Department of Agriculture for the state you're moving to to find out if there are any special restrictions or regulations you need to follow before you move your pet.
Community Restrictions: Many apartment communities and condo associations restrict the kinds of dogs you may keep by breed and weight. If you have a dog that is considered an aggressive breed (i.e. pit bulls, rottweilers, dobermans; etc.) or any other dog that is over 25 lbs. (standard leasing weight restriction), you should research what communities will allow your pet before you book your move. Many communities also restrict the amount of animals you can move in as well, so call ahead and ask about your local communities pet policies.
Exotic Pets: Most reptiles (snakes, iguanas, turtles; etc.), insects such as tarantulas, ferrets and even most rodent pets are considered exotic pets and are typically not allowed in rental communities. Reptiles also cannot be shipped on an airplane and must instead be shipped by parcel. We suggest using ShipYourReptiles.com to ship your snakes and other reptiles safely to your new home.
Pets Requiring Permits:If your exotic pet is genuinely exotic, such as a monkey, wolf, or even a large cat, ownership requires a permit, so check the state agencies to find out if you can move your special pet. This also applies to farm animals such as goats, cows and chickens.
Visit Your Vet.
Update Your Pet's Shots: Airlines require updated rabies tags and health certificates in order for your pet to board the plane. If you're planning to drive, updated shot records are also required to cross some state lines.
Obtain Your Pet's Health Records: Get a copy of your pet's records from your current vet or have your vet forward them to your new vet if you have already selected one.
Update Identification Tags: Your pet's ID tag should include their name, your name, and your best contact number and/or destination address. Birds should have an ID tag around a leg as well as on their carrying cage. Microchipping your dog or cat is a good way to prevent your pet from getting lost.
Moving Options: By Car or By Air
Driving to Your Destination with Your Doggy or Kitty.
Small pets like birds, rabbits and hamsters, can be transported in their cages. Birds are cold sensitive and frighten easily, so keep your bird cage covered and do not move in cold weather. Secure water bowls to prevent spills and feed regularly.
Cats and small dogs should be moved in carriers unless your dog is comfortable taking long trips in cars. Large dogs should be properly restrained with dog harness designed for cars or restricted to the back seat for safety.
Book a Flight for Your Friend on Animal-Carrying Airlines.
If you are flying, a small dog or cat can fly in the cabin with you on some pet-friendly airlines for an additional fee. Be sure to check with the airline to find out what regulations you and your pet must abide by in order to fly together.
Large pets can only be flown as air freight.Dogs, cats, birds and even fish are accepted by most airlines but exotic pets such as snake will require an alternate shipping method.
Moving On Up™ strongly recommends Animals Away Pet Relocation and Air Animal Pet Movers for door-to-door safe shipping of your beloved pets.
Moving On Up would love to help you and your pets move safely and comfortably to your new home. If you have any questions, or would like to discuss how to coordinate your move with your pets travel plans, contact us at 1 (800) 945-9569.
For more information, check out the Humane Society's pet moving resources at http://www.hsus.org/pets/pet_care/caring_for_pets_when_you_travel/animalfriendly_hotel_accommodations.html.
ReplyDelete