This article is a part of the ultimate guide to moving with a dog to a new home. It takes you step by step through the challenging process of moving cross country with a dog – from the morning of moving day until you set foot in your new home.
So, are we moving to a new home, or what?
Moving day is the culmination of the arduous relocation process – the time for your careful plans and hard work to come to fruition. And the journey to your new place is the actual “move” that everything boils down to. So, to achieve a successful relocation, you need to ensure a smooth moving day, efficient transportation for your items, and a problem-free trip for you and your family – including Fido.
When moving with a dog, you will have certainly done everything you can to prepare your pooch for the forthcoming relocation in the best way possible. So, when the time comes to actually move house, your canine friend will be as ready as they can be – but it’s up to you to keep them safe and calm on the Big day and during the journey to your new home.
Here is how to move with a dog so they stay safe and stress-free during the most critical part of your relocation adventure.
How to Keep Your Dog Safe and Calm on Moving Day
The most stressful and chaotic period of any house move is during the last few days before moving day and, of course, on the big day itself. And it’s only natural that the palpable relocation tension will affect Fido too. You need to find a way to calm your pet’s anxieties – and to keep your furry friend out of harm’s way.
Relocation experts and dog specialists alike are unanimous that a pup has absolutely no business hanging around the whirlwind of activities when moving day arrives. Your canine friend may get in the movers’ way and cause an accident, may get hurt when furniture and heavy boxes are hauled out of the home, may get scared by the strange noises and strange activities taking place in the house – and escape through an open gate, may get aggressive towards the strangers going in and out of your home – and scare (or even attack) someone, etc.
To keep your dog safe and keep their stress to a minimum, you need to keep Fido away from the moving chaos.
1) Get your dog out of the house
Do you want to spend the day with a friend?
The best way to protect your dear pet from the numerous dangers and stressful vibes of moving day is to get them out of the house – leave Fido with a trusted, well-known friend, relative, or neighbor where they will be safe and calm. It will be best if that trusted person can take your dog for a long walk or play with them, so your pooch is engaged and happy while they’re away from you – and feels content and tired when you get them back.
Leaving your pup at a dog day care center for the day is also a good option – especially if your pup is familiar with the place and feels comfortable there.
Professional dog trainer Lauren Novack says: “On moving day, I suggest getting your pup out of the house. The last thing you need to worry about is your dog door dashing when the movers are transporting furniture to the truck. Your pup can go to a friend’s house or spend the day at daycare. Choose the option that is most familiar to your pup.”
The dog experts at Pet Plan New Zealand are also in favor of getting your canine friend away from your home during the most dangerous relocation period:
“Your pet’s safety is the biggest concern during a move, so ensure they are not able to escape through any open gates while the removalists are working. A good idea to reduce any stress and to keep your dog safe could be to also send them to a familiar friends or family member’s house whilst you are doing the packing and moving. This also gives peace of mind that they are out of the movers’ way.”
2) Keep your dog in a quiet room away from the moving activity
If leaving your dog with someone else is not an option, you need to find a way to keep the pooch safe and stress-free at home, despite the moving chaos.
The first thing to do on the morning of moving day is to tend to your dog’s needs and help Fido let out energy. Exercise is critical for keeping a dog’s anxiety down, so it’s a good idea to tire out your pet on the day of your move. You may need to get up earlier than you’d like, but it’s essential to take the time to give your pup a good walk or a long game of fetch in the backyard before the movers arrive. This will allow them to let out energy and will make the day much less stressful for them.
Safe. Comfy. Cozy.
After exercise and breakfast, you’re advised to take your canine friend to a secure, quiet room where Fido will be able to relax and will be safe. Make sure the door and windows are securely closed, leave fresh water for your dog, bring them their favorite blanket, and give them something fun to occupy themselves with – a few of their favorite toys, a Kong stuffed with treats, or something new to chew on.
Put a large sign on the door to warn movers not to enter that room.
Be sure to ask a friend or a family member to keep an eye on your pup from time to time – or spare a moment to do it yourself in between tasks. If you have kids that aren’t too young for the “job”, put them in charge of the pooch. If needed, you can even hire a pet sitter to take care of your dog while you’re busy orchestrating moving day.
Once your items are loaded on the moving truck and the movers depart, it’s time for you and your family to set off for your new home too – and somehow get Fido there as well. (It is your responsibility to relocate your dog because professional movers, no matter how experienced and reliable they are, are not allowed to transport pets.)
You can take your pup with you or ship them to your new location separately – the best way to transport your dog to your final destination depends on the specific circumstances in your relocation case and your personal preferences.
How to transport a dog across country
When moving a dog to a new home, you have three viable options – transport them in your car, fly them cross county, or use a specialized dog transportation service.
How is Fido going to travel to your new home?
It is generally believed that the best way to move house with a dog is to relocate them with your own vehicle – so you can take proper care of your furry friend.
Yet, sometimes flying may be the better option – if you’re moving long distance, driving to your new place will take several days. It is a long time for a dog to spend in a car and the overnight stays could be a problem – it may not be easy to find pet-friendly accommodations along the way, your dog won’t be comfortable spending every night in a different place, there will be more risks of escapes and/or accidents, etc. Besides, you may simply not have the time to drive for days on end to your new area (or there may be other unfavorable circumstances that prevent you from doing so).
Flying across the country takes only a few hours and is extremely safe. You may be nervous about the prospect of flying your canine friend via cargo, but it may be a less stressful experience for your pup than spending days on the road.
So, especially if you prefer to fly to your new area yourself, flying your dog cross country is definitely worth considering. (Of course, it may not always be an option – if your dog is a snub-nosed breed, for example, or if there isn’t an airport at your final destination.)
Under specific circumstances, neither of the two dog transportation methods mentioned above will work for you. In such a case, dog movers may be exactly what you need. Regular household moving companies are not authorized to move pets between homes, but there are professional pet movers who specialize in safe and problem-free pet transportation – you can hire a reputable dog moving company to relocate your pooch to your new place and have a peace of mind that Fido is in good hands.
Needless to say, you need to decide which dog transportation option will be best for your dear pet and you long before moving day and make the necessary arrangements.
How to transport your dog across country in a car
If you’ll be driving to your new home, you will most likely decide to take your dog with you. This way, not only will you be able to keep a watchful eye on Fido at all times, but your furry friend will feel much calmer as they will be with their trusted human – you. Besides, you won’t need to pay extra for the transportation of your dog.
If you’re going to transport your pup in your car, however, you need to plan the trip very carefully and take every possible measure to ensure Fido’s well-being during the journey to your new home.
Have a safe trip!
Plan your trip wisely. If you will need to stay at a hotel or motel, be sure to find a place with a pet-friendly policy, so you can take your dog to your room with you and spend the night comfortably together. Have a “Plan B” hotel in case traffic or weather steers you away from your first lodging choice;
Pack a travel bag for your dog. Prepare a box or bag with everything your pup may need during the trip and immediately after arriving in your new home – include water, dog food, disposable wet wipes, paper towels, poop bags, leash or harness, and some first aid supplies, as well as anti-nausea meds, anti-anxiety drugs, and any other medications your pooch may require. Make sure you have taken a piece of your dog’s old world as well to keep them company and provide much needed comfort during this transitional period – their usual food bowls and water bowls, their favorite blanket, a few chew toys, some special treats, and anything else that your loyal friend loves and is well familiar with;
Have practice car drives. If your dog is not accustomed to traveling in a car, the trip to your new home may turn out to be a rather stressful experience for everyone. To help your furry friend feel a bit more comfortable inside the confines of a moving vehicle, you’re advised to start taking them on short trips around town in the weeks before moving day – so they get used to car travel and overcome their anxieties. It’s a good idea to take Fido to a nearby park, a friend’s house, or some other fun place, so your pooch creates positive associations with the car;
Consider using calming sprays or anti-anxiety medications. If your pup is super nervous on moving day, you can give them an anti-anxiety med (approved by your vet) or apply a specialized spray that uses natural substances to induce a feeling of calm in dogs;
Consider using a restraint device or putting up a barrier. Restraint devices (such as seatbelt harnesses) are meant to keep a dog safer in case of an accident or sudden stop. If you don’t think Fido will feel comfortable with restrains, you can install a barrier between the front and back seats to keep your canine friend off the console and protect them from launching forward if you slam on the brakes. Of course, you can simply choose to keep your dog in a carrier while they’re in the car, especially if they feel safe and comfortable in their crate (you can find detailed information on how to choose a suitable carrier and how to crate train your dog later in the text). In such a case, secure the crate to the backseat with a belt, make sure nothing can fall over it, and keep it away from direct sunlight;
Make sure your dog is wearing a collar with your contact information (name and phone number) at all times. It’s unlikely that your dog will go missing during the trip, but if it happens, you need to be sure that they will be returned to you. It is a good idea to include your new address on the tag too;
Offer your dog plenty of water before and during the drive. Use spill-proof water bowls that will allow your pet easy access to water without getting your vehicle wet;
Play relaxing music in the car to help your pup relax during the long distance drive;
Make frequent stops. Your dog will probably be getting more and more restless with each driven mile – and will need bathroom breaks – so do your best to stop for a rest every two hours or so. Take your furry friend outside for some fresh air and a calming effect on their canine nerves, but be sure to keep them on a leash. Give your pet water and treats and play some games with them while you’re out of the car;
Give your dog an early-morning walk each day before hitting the highway to help them let out energy before putting them in the car;
Never leave your dog unattended in the vehicle!
During a long distance out-of-state car trip, it’s a great idea to keep your dog occupied so that they don’t become too restless or scared while on the road. Games are always fun, so ask your pet to bark once when they spot a license plate from the state you just left, twice for a license plate from the state you’re moving to, and three times if your clever dog recognizes the same make and model of the vehicle you own.
Experienced dog experts support the above-mentioned pointers and give additional tips on how to have a problem-free car trip with a dog.
KC Theisen, Director of Pet Care Issues for The Humane Society of the United States, advises home movers to plan their car trips ahead of time:
“Look at maps for good stopping points for rest and bathroom breaks, and be sure fresh water is available to all your pets during the trip. Contact hotels in advance to ensure they are pet-friendly and don’t charge excess fees for pets to stay. You won’t be able to log as many miles traveling with dogs as you would if you were alone, so account for this and make the stops fun for you and the dog by playing games, practicing some basic on-leash commands and giving treats while you’re out of the car.”
In addition, Ms. Theisen recommends a practice routine for dogs not used to traveling long distances in vehicles. “If your pets aren’t accustomed to traveling long distances in a carrier, it’s a smart idea to practice loading and unloading into the car before the trip. Spend a few minutes each day loading the pets and practicing how they should be arranged for safety (do not pack luggage tightly around a carrier, it restricts air flow). Then, let the pets back out inside the house and praise and reward them for cooperating.”
NorthStar Moving Company Co-Founder and rescue dog owner Laura McHolm shares her practical experience in relocating with pet:
“Unless your move is long distance or international, your pet will likely be traveling by car with you nearby. By driving them yourself you can care for them and give them a sense of familiarity as they move. To prepare your pet for this trip, drive for short distances with your pet to prepare them before the final move. Also, remember to plan ahead for any special carriers your pets may need for transportation. There are even special seat belts for large dogs.”
Pet expert Kristen Levine from Kristen Levine Pet Living says, “If long distance car travel will be part of your move, visit your veterinarian for advice on how your pet can make the trip most comfortably. If they become anxious or sick, your veterinarian can suggest behavior modification or medication to reduce your pet’s travel stress.”
Kristen also advises dog owners to never leave their dogs unattended in a parked car.
“On travel day, provide them with a small amount of water instead of food. Be sure fresh water is accessible to them during the entire trip and make frequent stops for your dog to eliminate stress and stretch all fours. Look into pet-friendly hotels if you’ll be spending the night on the road. Be sure to pack a box with all of your pet’s necessities for the trip. A favorite toy or a piece of clothing with your scent on it may be a calming influence for your pet.”
If your relocation journey passes through Cottonwood, Idaho, then consider stopping at Dog Bark Park Inn for a relaxing break. Besides, the famous dog-themed hotel must have the best pet policy imaginable, don’t you think?
“If time permits, work with a qualified dog behavior counselor first to help with your dog’s car anxiety.”, advises Tonya Wilhelm, a full-time dog training specialist and one of the top ten dog trainers in the United States.
”Before packing up for the big day, purchase new ID tags with your new address, and phone number. Proper collar and harness fit. Dogs are notorious for slipping out of collars. Make sure your dog is fitted properly, and cannot slip out. For extra security, you can use a carabineer clip to attach your dog’s leash to BOTH a harness and collar.
Take frequent breaks for walks, feeding, and exercise during your trip to your new destination. Pack a travel bag for your dog, including 2 extra days of food, first aid kit, extra leash, toys, chews, baby wipes and plenty of poop bags.”
Helen Mendelsohn, President of Top Dog USA, dedicated to teaching people with disabilities how to train their own dog to become a fully certified service dog, kindly shares practical dog moving tips from personal experience:
“When I have moved, I have worn an old shirt for several days (don’t wash the shirt) and given it to the dog. Then they are constantly used to my smell. Keep their routine as close to normal as possible. Make sure you have bottled water as they can become sick from strange food or water. My goal is to always have toys, bedding, and their regular food dishes available.
If you are driving, frequent stops for bathroom and exercise are essential. Do not leave your dog in a hot car, try not to go into restaurants or anywhere else for long times. Drive-thrus work well. I have always used extra special treats and tried not to overly stress the dog.”
How to get a dog across the country by air
Car travel may be the best way to transport dogs across country, but sometimes airplane travel may be the right choice for you and your pooch (as discussed above). Flying your dog cross country, however, requires a lot of careful planning and preparation:
Choose an airline and make a reservation
Unlike exotic pets, dogs are included into the list of Accepted Live Animals, so airlines won’t refuse to ship your pet by air. If you’re planning to fly your dog cross country though, you need to check airline pet policies (different airlines have different regulations for transporting animals internationally) and choose the best air carrier for your needs. Keep in mind that most airlines limit the number of animals they allow on a given flight (both in the cabin and in the cargo hold), so you need to book your space as early as possible.
Your dog got to fly first class with you? Lucky them!
Make sure that you have all the required documentation, such as health certificates and vaccination records. During the mandatory visit to the vet, be sure to ask the specialist if it is a good idea to use anti-anxiety medications or mild sedatives to keep your dog calmer on the flight.
Request more information about the specific requirements your chosen airline has for dogs and their travel crates so that there are no unexpected surprises for you on travel day.
Find out if pets are allowed in the cabin and if yes, under what circumstances – most airlines allow small dogs (under a certain weight) to travel in the cabin, as long as their crate is small enough to fit under a seat. The carrier needs to be entirely closed (so the pup cannot get out on their own), but appropriately ventilated. If the pet transportation container doesn’t fit under a seat or the weight limit is exceeded, your dog will have to travel in the cargo hold.
Get a suitable pet carrier
Your dog will be allowed on the plane only in an appropriate pet carrier that meets the specific requirements of the airline company you have chosen. Every airline has slightly different rules, but the standard requirements for pet containers say that:
The pet carrier must be large enough for your dog to be able to stand, sit, turn, and lie down in a natural, comfortable position;
The crate must be constructed from rigid materials such as wood, metal or plastic. It can be hard-sided or soft-sided (depending on the specific requirements of your chosen airline), but must have a solid top and ventilation openings on at least 3 sides;
The door must be equipped with a latch (not a lock), so that your dog can be taken out of it in case of an emergency;
Pet shipping containers with non-removable wheels are not accepted;
Your contact information, your final destination, your dog’s name, and a recent photo of Fido must be attached to the pet carrier;
Food and water dispensers must be fastened inside the kennel but have to be accessible from the outside;
Suitable bedding and absorbent materials /towels, blankets, etc./ should be present inside the crate.
Crate train your dog
Getting your pup to feel comfortable in their transportation container will help ease their anxiety during the flight to your new area. So, be sure to purchase your dog’s travel crate as early as possible and start acclimating Fido to it right away – ideally, you want to have a few weeks for “crate training”.
Now your pooch is certain to feel comfortable during the flight to your new area.
Leave the carrier open and encourage your pooch to explore it by leaving treats and favorite toys inside. Feed your furry friend in the crate and get them to sleep in it (put their favorite blankets and comforters inside).
Once your dog gets comfortable with the crate, try keeping them in it with the door closed – start with a few minutes at a time and gradually increase the period. Then, you can try loading the dog and crate into the car and taking short rides around town so that Fido understands that there is nothing scary about traveling in the carrier.
If you manage to create positive associations with the crate and it becomes a safe place for your dog, it will be very comforting to them during the stressful trip to your new home.
Ensure your dog’s safety and comfort during the flight to your new home
Take every possible measure to ensure your dog’s safety during the flight and reduce their stress as much as possible:
Use direct flights to keep the trip as short as possible and to avoid the risk of your dog getting misplaced and/or lost on connections;
Even if your canine friend has to travel in the cargo hold, be sure to travel on the same flight as them;
Stop feeding your dog 4 hours before taking off, but ensure they have enough water (in an airline-approved water container) for the entire trip;
Use natural calming products to reduce your pup’s anxiety before and during the flight;
Place a couple of your pooch’s favorite toys and blankets in the crate.
Take care of your pet’s needs as soon as you arrive at your final destination and do your best to reassure your dog and make them feel calm and comfortable.
How to ship a dog across country with a pet transportation company
Despite the benefits of transporting your pooch in your car or flying them to your new city, using the services of a pet transportation company is the easiest way to move a dog across the country. The pros will take care of everything and will ensure a safe and smooth trip for your canine friend.
When you’re working with reliable pet movers, your pooch is in good hands.
To provide the best possible moving experience for your pup, look for dog moving companies with proper licensing (all dog movers must be licensed by the U.S. Department of Agriculture), extensive experience, and excellent track record. Get pet relocation quotes from several reputable dog movers, compare the prices and conditions, and book the pet transport company that best suits your pet relocation needs and preferences.
Once you’ve chosen a pet mover and worked out the relocation details, be sure to hand them over your dog’s documentation, instructions about your pup’s needs, the precise address of your new home, and your contact information so they can reach you in case of an emergency.
If you’ve done your homework right and hired a good pet transportation company, your dog will arrive at your new home safe and sound and ready for the adventures that await them in the new area.
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