Moving Cross Country With Pets
Our pets are important to us; they are extended members of our family but moving cross country with pets can be challenging.
Dogs are often comfortable with traveling, but long distance can be tiring for both pet and owner. When considering a move cross country with a dog (or any other pet), we have to consider how this will affect our furry friend. Many of our clients have pets and have moved them cross country with ease, others have not been prepared.
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Not all pets are as ok with a cross country move as this feline friend.[/caption]
Driving cross country is the least expensive way to transport your pet cross country but, if a flight is necessary, please plan ahead and find out all the necessary rules and regulations. Each airline is different, and the size of the pet determines how they will be traveling. Your pet may be too big to fit in a carrier under your seat and this would mean they would have to travel with the luggage. Ask questions before booking your flight, moving cross country with your dog needs to be comfortable for all involved.
Our TOP 3 TIPS for moving cross country with pets:

- Plan your trip in advance with enough time to secure hotels that are pet friendly, and make sure they have space for your dog to walk and do his/her personal business. They need enough room to run and play to expend their cooped-up energy of the day’s travel. PetsWelcome is one of the websites our client suggested for finding such a hotel.
- One of the most important items for moving cross country with a pet is to make sure your pets are microchipped. This can be a life saver if your pet gets away from you and gets lost while you are moving cross country. With a microchip, your pet can be located at area animal shelters and veterinarians much easier than without.
- Prep your vehicle with all the comforts of home so your pet feels comfortable when traveling. Your pet carrier/cage, car harness, water bowl, food, treats and even toys will make all the difference in the world to your dog while traveling and staying in unfamiliar settings.
Posted by Jim Henderson