Traveling With Your Pets This Summer? Follow These Four Tips!
May is National Pet Month, and we’ve decided to put a spotlight on keeping pets safe and happy during a move, travel, or an extended stay away from home.
From relocations to renovations, there are many reasons requiring pet owners to be on-the-move with pets. If you’ve just purchased your dream home and are preparing to move, congratulations. Perhaps your property is being tented or fumigated, requiring you and your pets to leave for an extended period. Here is a simple checklist to ensure a seamless transition.
1) Food and Treats: From your pets’ point-of-view, this would be ranked #1. Pack enough food to last the entire length of your stay. If your home is being fumigated, be sure to REMOVE any and all pet food items from the home to avoid contamination from poisonous gases. Also, remember to bring a sealed container of water and an easy-to-reach food supply in your vehicle to provide meals to your pet during an extended car ride or trip to a new location.
2) Meds and Medical Information: From a pet safety standpoint, this would be most important. Bring along ALL medications and any medical information about your pet, including tag numbers, microchip numbers, carrying cases, and veterinary details. Pets are often nervous when traveling or leaving home, which might prompt them to run away. Nerves could also lead to an unexpected illness or behavior. Prior to your travel or moving date, be sure to locate and make note of a nearby veterinarian in your new or temporary area in case any issues arise.
3) Toys and Bedding: As mentioned, animals can easily become upset when they are out of their usual routine. It’s wise to create a quiet, comfortable spot upon arrival for your pe that is away from noise and activity. Familiar smells and the texture of your pet’s favorite bed, blanket, or crate can relax your pet in its new environment. Toys are also important. If your pets have nervous energy, you’ll want favorite toys within easy reach for daily play time. Importantly, if a fumigation or remodel is the reason for your travel, be sure to REMOVE all toys and bedding from the property being treated so as to avoid potential contamination of items.
4) Litter and Leashes: Cats and dogs are creatures of habit, which is why it’s smart to keep things as consistent as possible when on the move. Stock up on your cats favorite litter and bring a fresh box ready-for-use upon arrival at a new location. This is not something you want to forget, trust us. As for dogs, be sure to remember a leash and collar along with plenty of plastic bags for picking up waste. As for cleanliness, bring along pet brushes, shampoos, and baby wipes for keeping your pet fresh and clean during your travels.
We hope this list helps homeowners like you keep your pets protected and safe. Always consult with your veterinarian for comprehensive pet-health instructions.
As fellow pet parents, we would be thrilled to help you find a perfect home to enjoy with your beloved cats and dogs. In addition to buying and selling real estate, we can also offer suggestions or connect you with veterinarians, moving professionals and other home experts. Call Dick and Karla Nielsen today at 813-294-5786 for more information.
