{"id":9239,"date":"2024-07-30T13:01:27","date_gmt":"2024-07-30T20:01:27","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/muscularmovingmen.com\/?p=9239"},"modified":"2025-08-29T10:47:31","modified_gmt":"2025-08-29T10:47:31","slug":"moving-long-distance-with-pets","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/muscularmovingmen.com\/blog\/moving-long-distance-with-pets\/","title":{"rendered":"Moving Long Distance with Pets"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Moving with a pet<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> may seem daunting, but it doesn\u2019t have to be. Your pets are part of your family\u2014 the best thing you can do for them is to be proactive! Here are some <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">tips for moving with pets<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> from Muscular Moving Men. <\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Pre-travel_preparation\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Pre-travel preparation<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Veterinary_Check-Up\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Veterinary Check-Up<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Before <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">moving out of state<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> with your pet, double-check that their vaccinations are up to date. It\u2019s worth scheduling an appointment with a vet, getting a check-up and any required documentation or medication you need for your trip. When scheduling your appointment, aim for two weeks prior to your travel date to certify your pet\u2019s clean bill of health is recent.<\/span><\/p><div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_82_2 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/muscularmovingmen.com\/blog\/moving-long-distance-with-pets\/#Pre-travel_preparation\" >Pre-travel preparation<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/muscularmovingmen.com\/blog\/moving-long-distance-with-pets\/#Veterinary_Check-Up\" >Veterinary Check-Up<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/muscularmovingmen.com\/blog\/moving-long-distance-with-pets\/#Choosing_the_Right_Carrier\" >Choosing the Right Carrier<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/muscularmovingmen.com\/blog\/moving-long-distance-with-pets\/#Transportation_Options\" >Transportation Options<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/muscularmovingmen.com\/blog\/moving-long-distance-with-pets\/#Air_vs_Ground_Transport\" >Air vs. Ground Transport<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/muscularmovingmen.com\/blog\/moving-long-distance-with-pets\/#Packing_for_Pets\" >Packing for Pets<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/muscularmovingmen.com\/blog\/moving-long-distance-with-pets\/#Essential_Supplies\" >Essential Supplies<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/muscularmovingmen.com\/blog\/moving-long-distance-with-pets\/#Travel_Kit_for_Each_Pet\" >Travel Kit for Each Pet<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/muscularmovingmen.com\/blog\/moving-long-distance-with-pets\/#On_the_Road\" >On the Road<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/muscularmovingmen.com\/blog\/moving-long-distance-with-pets\/#Acclimating_Pets_to_Travel\" >Acclimating Pets to Travel<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/muscularmovingmen.com\/blog\/moving-long-distance-with-pets\/#Maintaining_Routine\" >Maintaining Routine<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/muscularmovingmen.com\/blog\/moving-long-distance-with-pets\/#Arriving_at_Your_New_Home\" >Arriving at Your New Home<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/muscularmovingmen.com\/blog\/moving-long-distance-with-pets\/#Adjusting_to_a_New_Environment\" >Adjusting to a New Environment<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/muscularmovingmen.com\/blog\/moving-long-distance-with-pets\/#Local_Vet_and_Emergency_Services\" >Local Vet and Emergency Services<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/muscularmovingmen.com\/blog\/moving-long-distance-with-pets\/#Ready_to_Make_Your_Long_Distance_Move\" >Ready to Make Your Long Distance Move?<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Most airlines require pet health certificates that serve as a vet\u2019s OK for your pet to travel. However, requirements vary by airline, so check your airline\u2019s pet travel policy at least two weeks before your travel date. You can also use a tool <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.aphis.usda.gov\/pet-travel\/state-to-state\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">like this one, from the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (APHIS), to better understand domestic travel documentation for pets and other animals.<\/span><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Choosing_the_Right_Carrier\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Choosing the Right Carrier<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Choosing the right carrier is one of the most important steps of moving with a pet. After all, you\u2019ll be responsible for transporting it, and your pet has to feel comfortable inside. Nothing is worse than choosing a cramped carrier that\u2019s difficult to move. A good rule of thumb when choosing the appropriate carrier size is to make sure your pet can comfortably stand, turn around, and lie down while inside. The carrier should be sturdy, meet travel standards for size and ventilation, and have secure closures.<\/span><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Transportation_Options\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Transportation Options<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Air_vs_Ground_Transport\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Air vs. Ground Transport<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">There are several options for moving long-distance with pets. Traveling by plane is faster, however, airlines have strict rules for traveling with pets. Plus, you may be separated for the duration of your trip depending on your pet\u2019s size. Small pets can fly in main cabins if they remain in their carrier, while larger pets will likely be stowed with checked luggage below the main cabin.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Ground transport, on the other hand, is more flexible and cost-effective for shorter distances, but may subject your pet to longer travel times with varying conditions. Long-distance moves by car can involve overnight lodging. If you will be making overnight stops, plan to book lodging at a hotel that allows and accommodates pets. Never leave your pet unattended in a vehicle overnight while traveling\u2014 it\u2019s uncomfortable and can potentially be dangerous.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Some owners aren\u2019t comfortable being away from their pets during travel, and vice versa. Consider your pet\u2019s stress tolerance skills\u2014 if they don\u2019t do well in a high stress environment, it may be better to choose a form of travel where you can easily see to their physical and emotional needs. There\u2019s no wrong answer when <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">moving long-distance with pets<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u2014 choose what\u2019s right for you! Hiring professional<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/muscularmovingmen.com\/services\/long-distance-moving\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> long-distance movers<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, however, makes the process seamless for all family members, including pets.<\/span><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Packing_for_Pets\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Packing for Pets<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Essential_Supplies\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Essential Supplies<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It\u2019s a good idea to make a supply checklist before <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">moving with a pet<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. Essential supplies include pet food and water, a comfortable travel crate or carrier, medications, as well as tagged collars, leashes and harnesses if needed. Don\u2019t forget your pet\u2019s travel documentation, hygiene and grooming products, comfort items and enrichment toys.<\/span><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Consider whether you will supervise your pet for the entirety of the trip. If you will be apart for a period of time (like during a flight) prepare for accidents by lining your pet\u2019s carrier with hygiene pads and take them for a bathroom break right before travel. Invest in collapsible bowls and a water bottle for convenient, mess-free feeding on the go.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Travel_Kit_for_Each_Pet\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Travel Kit for Each Pet<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Ensure your pet\u2019s comfort and security while traveling by putting together a checklist that pairs their needs with corresponding items. We recommend dividing the items into the following categories:<\/span><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<ol>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Things your pet needs to have access to at all times<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Things you, their owner, need to have access to at all times<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Pet items you don\u2019t always need at all times but should be within reach<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Keep your pet safe with a tagged collar and a leash. Make sure your pet has access to water whenever they might need it during travel. Consider providing your pet with an enrichment toy to keep them occupied during the trip. Always keep safety equipment and emergency supplies on your person when <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">moving with a pet.<\/span><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"On_the_Road\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">On the Road<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Acclimating_Pets_to_Travel\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Acclimating Pets to Travel<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Practice short trips with your pet to familiarize them with a travel environment before the trip. If your pet doesn\u2019t normally wear a collar or travel in a carrier, introduce these elements earlier to minimize stress and anxiety. If your pet has a low stress tolerance, talk to your vet about calming treats or anti-anxiety medication for pets.<\/span><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">To help your pet get accustomed to a carrier, place the carrier in a high-traffic area in your current living space a few weeks before travel. Encourage and reward your pet when they rest in and around the carrier with treats, physical touch and praise. For stubborn or anxious pets, try putting a well-loved toy or a fabric item that smells like you into the carrier, like an old t-shirt or blanket.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Maintaining_Routine\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Maintaining Routine<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When traveling with pets, maintain regular feeding times, especially in cars. Before traveling, offer a light meal and a bathroom break to avoid digestive issues. Ensure water is always available and plan for potty breaks. Bring familiar toys and a scented blanket for comfort. Use a secure crate or carrier, and plan for pet exercise. Choose pet-friendly accommodations wisely. These steps will help ensure a smooth and comfortable journey for your pets.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Arriving_at_Your_New_Home\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Arriving at Your New Home<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Adjusting_to_a_New_Environment\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Adjusting to a New Environment<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">To help pets adjust to a new home, create a safe space with familiar items. It may help to gradually introduce them to their new living space; settle them with their belongings in a small room or bathroom, and allow them to get accustomed while maintaining consistent routines. Put familiar items around your living space to help them get acclimated and reward positive behavior. Finally, be patient and understanding with your pet. Moving is stressful for all parties involved\u2014 they can\u2019t do it without your support!<\/span><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Local_Vet_and_Emergency_Services\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Local Vet and Emergency Services<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">After moving, locate a new veterinarian and emergency pet care facilities. Check online reviews, visit facilities in person, and ask for recommendations. Confirm services offered, including identifying emergency services, and schedule an introductory visit. Don\u2019t forget to bring all current medications and health documents to your first appointment.<\/span><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Ready_to_Make_Your_Long_Distance_Move\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Ready to Make Your Long Distance Move?<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Being proactive is the key to <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">moving cross-country with pets.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> When <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">moving out of state with pets,<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> plan your trip in advance and consider your pet\u2019s needs. Create a checklist, anticipate accidents and be patient with your pet. Consider a <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/muscularmovingmen.com\/services\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">professional moving company<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> to streamline the process and allow you to focus on settling into your new home with your animal friends. <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/muscularmovingmen.com\/get-a-quote\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Get a quote<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> for your move today!<\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Moving with a pet may seem daunting, but it doesn\u2019t have to be. Your pets are part of your family\u2014 [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":6,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"inline_featured_image":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[35,34],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-9239","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-long-distance-moving","category-moving-tips"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/muscularmovingmen.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/9239","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/muscularmovingmen.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/muscularmovingmen.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/muscularmovingmen.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/6"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/muscularmovingmen.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=9239"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/muscularmovingmen.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/9239\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":10985,"href":"https:\/\/muscularmovingmen.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/9239\/revisions\/10985"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/muscularmovingmen.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=9239"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/muscularmovingmen.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=9239"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/muscularmovingmen.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=9239"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}