Moving Your Pets
Because pets have an instinctive fear of new surroundings, pet owners want to help them adjust quickly.
Pre-planning is the key to an easier transfer, regardless of the mode of transportation chosen. Travel arrangements should be completed as far in advance of moving day as is practical, keeping departure day tasks to a minimum. One person in the family should assume responsibility for the pet.
Pets can not be moved on the moving van. Nor, except for Seeing-Eye dogs accompanying blind persons, are they permitted on trains or buses. So, ways of pet transport are limited to two - by air, with the pet either accompanying you, or in an appropriate container traveling as air freight, or travel by your personal motor vehicle.
Prior to making any travel arrangements, you should do the following:
- Take pet to veterinarian for checkup and health documents - apply for entry permit if one is needed; inquire about sedation for pet; obtain pet's health record; schedule second visit to vet if necessary; ask vet to recommend a colleague in the new city.
- Obtain travel identification tag.
- Check destination state's pet entry regulations.
Nearly every state and country has laws applicable to the entry of dogs, cats, horses, exotic birds and other pets. It is important that you comply with the laws of the state/couontry to which you are moving; otherwise, you may be subject to prosecution. Stevens Worldwide Van Lines suggests contacting the State Veterinarian in the capital city of your new home state well in advance of your move for specific laws concerning entry of your pet. International transferees will be directed by their move coordinator.
Many animal relocation services are also available, such as Pet Assure® and their network of veterinarians, groomers, trainers, pet sitters and boarders. Contact Pet Assure® at: http://www.petassure.com, or via phone at (973) 537-9889 and ask for Sue Prelozni or e-mail at: suep@petassure.com or visit www.petsonthego.com for extensive information about relocating your pets!
Billions of Miles... Millions of Moves... A Century of Service
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