MOVING WITH YOUR DOG

Home / Moving Tips / Moving With Pets / Moving With Your Dog

Before the moveDogs can have a difficult time with the process of moving, both in terms of traveling and getting used to a new home. When their daily schedule is disrupted, dogs can become nervous and may behave strangely. A new environment can also be a source of anxiety for a dog, and it may take some time before your do get readjusted.

Try to make everything as normal as possible in the days leading to your move. Feed and play with your dog as usual. Try to keep the schedule uninterrupted despite the arrangements you must make for the move itself. If your dog is prone to nervousness and anxiety, you may want to ask a friend to care for your dog during the move. That may help reduce the chances of your dog getting upset, running away, or hiding in one of the moving boxes. It could also help cut down on the stress for your dog. Many states require a Health Certificate. For more information, check with your veterinarian or the State Regulatory Agency located in your new state.

Moving your dog by car

Some dogs are comfortable traveling in a car and even look forward to going for a ride; however, if your dog is not used to car travel, it is recommended to take it on short rides before the trip to help it get accustomed to the motion of the car.

If you travel by car with your dog, keep it in a carrier and don’t allow the dog to put its head out of the window; dirt and insects can fly into its eyes and may cause irritation or infection. Remember to keep your power windows locked to prevent your dog from lowering the window and jumping out. If your car does not have air conditioning, leave the windows cracked 1-1 1/2 inches. Many states require a Health Certificate. For more information, check with your veterinarian or the State Regulatory Agency located in your new state.

Pet Pack Checklist

Take a supply of water from your home; different water on the road can cause upset stomachs for dogs.
Foods, pet treats, can opener and a dish.
An old bed sheet or blanket to protect your car upholstery.
A favorite toy or two, and an old t-shirt or rag with your scent on it.
Medication your dog may need.
Paper towels and a sponge just in case your dog gets car sick.
Grooming brush and/or comb.
Scooper and plenty of plastic bags.
Room deodorizer for hotel rooms.

Moving your dog by air

If you travel by air, your dog benefits from a direct flight. A direct flight prevents unnecessary time away from you and limits the stress your dog experiences during the travel.

It is important to use a comfortable and sturdy carrier. We cannot stress this enough. A carrier should be large enough for your dog to stand up, turn around, and lie down. It must have enough cross-ventilation and a leak-proof bottom with layers of absorbent lining. It should have a secure closing mechanism on the door, but do not lock the kennel door. Federal regulations require that your dog be accessible in the event of an emergency. Have your dog’s nails trimmed before traveling, as nervous dogs frequently resort to scratching. This limits damage to the travel carrier and prevents the dog from harming itself. Some airlines allow dogs inside the passenger cabin (first come, first serve basis). Keep in mind your dog’s pet carrier can be no longer than 21″x18″x8″ – small enough to fit under the seat. Be sure to ask about transportation charges and pet insurance.

Travel Checklist

Remember to have all required health documents.
Make sure the identification tag is attached to your dog.
Have a recent photo of your dog with you.
Pet container in order and that complies with airline regulations – Write the words “FRAGILE – LIVE ANIMAL” and “THIS SIDE UP.”
Feed your dog a light meal 5-6 hours before flight time, but do not give it water two hours before take-off, except on hot days.
Exercise your dog (on a leash) at the airport and administer any require medications.
After placing your dog in the carrier, be sure to secure the closing mechanism and fasten the leash to the outside of the container.
Scooper and plenty of plastic bags.
Unless it is absolutely necessary, it is best not to sedate your dog.

Upon arrival at your new home

After you complete your travels, help your dog become familiar with its new home as quickly as possible. Resume the usual schedule of feeding, walking, and exercise, and take extra care of getting your dog used to its new home when conditions are different. For example, if your old home had a big yard and your new home has none, take your dog to the park to play and walk.
Your dog may need time to adjust after the stress of the move. Don’t panic if some accidents occur during the first few days of adjusting. Your dog will most likely stop this behavior after it has gotten used to the new living arrangements. Give your dog words of encouragement for going potty in the right place.
Just as you do for yourself, you should arrange a comfortable sleeping area for your dog immediately upon arrival at the new home. Additionally, set up food and water bowls in their new location. This will help your dog adjust more quickly and easily and to establish its new routine. Do a safety check to ensure the outdoor and indoor areas are dog-friendly. If there is a fenced-in yard, check to be sure that the fence is in good condition and that it is free of damaged areas that may allow your dog to escape. Make sure that the yard is free of hazards that could be dangerous to your dog.

Moving Tips

Garage Sale

Moving with Pets

10 Most Forgotten Items

Moving with the Family

Common Mistakes

Non Shippable Items

Free Moving Quote

Get Quote

What is included in every move?

At Nationwide Van Lines we bring something else to the table. We recognize that a successful move needs to always include a few basic services.

Protection of your home

We protect your floors with floor protectors and stair protectors while making sure to leave every surface scratch-free.
We also protect door jams, rails, and corners.
Our crews cover any area, inside and outside of your home, that needs protection.

Flat Pricing

We pack your furniture in industry-specific moving blankets. All moves include meticulous packing of all your non-fragile furniture to ensure safe travel to your destination.
We also safely pack your fragile glass and other delicate or special fragile items in addition to giving you the option of wood crates for high-value items. Please consult your nationwide Van Lines representative to make them aware of fragile or special items.

Furniture protection

We pack your furniture in our moving blankets. All moves include packing for all your non-fragile furniture to ensure safe travel to your destination.
We safely pack fragile glass or special items and give you the option of wood crates for high-value items. Please consult your representative to make them aware of fragile or special items.

Reliable and professional staff

Every member of Nationwide Van Lines is dedicated to overseeing your move with the utmost professionalism. From the office staff that provides estimates and customer service to our highly trained and background checked packing and loading crew-we are all committed to making sure your move is successful and stress-free.

Founder And President — Tali Maskalik

No matter if you’re relocating within the same neighborhood or overseas, moving can be pretty stressing. In fact, moving is repeatedly ranked as the third most stressful life event and sometimes seems to be completely overwhelming. On top of moving, you often have to deal with realtors, mortgage financing and even finding a great school for your kids. To keep all the moving components tracked and timely, organization is a big must. Utilizing a filing system is a great way to keep... Read More