A Few Precautions with Moving Pets

Fish

• It can be very impractical and risky to move fish. Check with your local pet store for recommendations on moving your specific type of fish. Do not move fish in their aquarium.
• It may be best to plan on giving the fish away and restock the aquarium when you arrive at your new home.

Cats and Dogs

• If traveling by air, make sure someone is at the other end to pick up your pet at the airport or to stay with your pet until you arrive. A kennel can do this for you and keep your pet until you have arrived and completed your move.
• If flying, your pet may be able to ride in the baggage compartment (check with the airlines). You may want to make these arrangements through a kennel. You’ll need the following items:
  Health certificate from your vet
  Pet carrier. The airline might have a special carrier or you can use your own as long as it complies with airline regulations.
  Tranquilizers. Your vet can provide these to be given immediately before going to the airport.
  Your scent. Your pet can be comforted by having a piece of your clothing in the carrier.
• Think twice about taking your dog or cat with you by car. Animals get carsick, nervous and upset and require frequent stops along the way. Also, check ahead to see if the hotel where you are staying allows pets. They must be fed and watered along the way.
  Take along the following items:
  Food & water
  A leash for rest stops
  Newspaper or sheets to keep your car clean.

Small Animals

• Hamsters, birds, mice, etc. can be transported in the car. To help keep the animals calm and quiet, cover cages with a cloth. Make sure they have enough food and water in their cages and make sure they are out of drafts or extreme temperatures.

Jennifer Waszazak

REALTOR® , Russell & Jeffcoat Realtors, Inc.

1061 Lake Murray Blvd
Irmo, SC 29063
Office (803) 781-0088
Cell     (803) 553-2424
Fax     (803) 732-4517