Relocating may be an exciting experience, but for those of us who have four-legged family members, it can also be a challenge! Ensuring that your pets have a smooth journey is essential for maintaining a stress-free experience for both yourself and your fur-babies. From creating an effective plan to making sure your pets are comfortable, this guide will provide you with everything you need for a successful pet relocation! 

Create A Relocation Plan

Pet relocation requires a lot of careful planning to ensure a stress-free and easy journey. You should start the relocation process by researching the travel requirements of your destination. Every country has its own requirements for pet relocation, specific documents should be prepared and certain tests need to be administered in advance. For example, some countries, like Australia & Singapore, would require a rabies blood test to be done, while others, like Spain & Germany, will simply require up to date vaccinations, import documents (stating their vaccination and microchip details) or a health certificate. You’ll also need to research which airlines are pet-friendly, and the requirements for each airline. 

You can create a detailed relocation checklist for your pet, to keep track of which tasks you’ll need to complete step-by-step, like scheduling the required vet visits for tests and document signing, ensuring that their vaccinations are up to date, their identification information is correct, ect. Planning early will help you stay ahead and organized during the relocation process.

Visit Your Veterinarian

Before officially starting your pet relocation process, you should consult with your local vet to ensure that your fur-baby is healthy, up to date on their vaccinations and that they will be able to travel safely. Certain breeds like persians or pugs, are unable to travel during the summer months, and your vet will need to determine if they're fit to travel. 

Your vet will also administer the tests and travel documents required for pet relocation, as well as provide your pet with any medical records, prescriptions and medications they might need for traveling. During this time, you can also ensure that your pet’s identification information is up to date, like their information in their vaccination book or passport, and that their microchip details are correct. 

Make The Airline Arrangements

Once you’ve decided which airline you plan on using, contact them to arrange for your pet’s journey. If you’ve decided to take your pet in the cabin with you, or if you’ll be taking your pet as excess luggage, you’ll need to inform the airline in advance, so that they can make the necessary arrangements. You should also contact the arrival airport to find out where you’ll be picking your up pet from. Airlines also have specific size requirements for each carrier and you’ll need to inform them of the dimensions in advance. 

Prepare Your Pets For The Move

It’s important to prepare your pets in advance before relocating. Firstly you’ll need a travel carrier that is Airline Approved, which you can order directly from our website. You can also get bedding that can make their carrier a lot more comfortable during their journey, we recommend the MidWest QuietTime Reversible Fleece Bed or the MidWest QuiteTime Ombre Swirl Bed. 

You should leave their carrier out for them to sniff and explore a few weeks before you leave. You could place their toys, treats or catnip inside to entice them to spend more time in and around the carrier, and create a positive association. You could also take short drives with your pet in their carrier to get them used to the idea of traveling inside it. 

Pets tend to get very nervous during traveling, especially when they sense that their families are stressed. Consider using a natural calming remedy, like Feliway or Adaptil to help them feel more at ease. Calming remedies should be used at least a few days before traveling to take effect. 

When the time comes to travel, consider keeping your pet’s favorite toy or blanket inside their travel carrier so that they have a sense of familiarity. If you’re planning for a long journey, you could also keep training pads inside the carrier in case of any accidents. In terms of food and water, it’s not recommended to keep food in their carriers while in flight, in case your pet gets nauseous, but you can keep ice frozen in their carrier bowl to melt during the flight and in case they get thirsty.

Create A Safe And Familiar New Home

When you arrive in your new home, you’ll need to make sure your pet feels comfortable in their new environment. Designate an area for their food, bedding, litter boxes and toys. Having their favorite belongings with them will help them settle into their new home much easier. 

Allow your pet to explore their new home gradually, while you spend quality time with them, offering them treats and positive reinforcement as they settle. For cats who like to roam, we recommend keeping them indoors for at least 3-4 weeks before letting them out, that way they can familiarize themselves with the idea of “home” and make it easier for them to find their way back.   

Stick to a routine every day, create a schedule for feedings, walks and playtimes. Consistency helps your pets adapt quickly and feel more assured of their surroundings. We’d also recommend using calming remedies in your new home to create a soothing atmosphere for your pet.

Pet relocation requires a lot of careful planning. By preparing early, staying organized and following our guide, you can ensure an easier, stress-free move for you and your fur-babies. Their comfort and well-being should be a priority during the relocation process. With a lot of  preparation and care your pet will adapt to their new home happily and comfortably!