PET CARE

Relocating With Pets

3 min read
Jan 25, 2022

So you found a perfect home.

We put together some tips and tricks to make your move as smooth as possible.

Plan in Advance

Because so much goes into transporting your pet, you have to plan everything out ahead of time.

Check local Pet Laws

Most states and counties have different laws and regulations regarding licensing pets. Typically, you’ll be able to register your pet online.

Get ID Tags with your New Address

Most people get busy with unpacking and forget to update their pet’s ID tags. It’s better to get it done prior to the big move to have peace of mind and know that your pup can be found and returned in case she decides to explore while you are you unloading boxes.

Map out your Road Trip

If you are moving cross-country and decide to drive, it would be a good idea to map out bathroom stops and book pet-friendly hotels. You might also want to find a couple of parks along the way in case your pet needs a walk.

Get some practice trips under your belt. If you’ve never taken your pet on trips, it might be smart to do at least a couple of practice trips before the long drive. That way, your furry friend will get used to traveling with you, and you might learn about potential complications. A lot of dogs suffer from car sickness, or your cat may get restless if they are in their crate for too long. You should also familiarize them with a crate if you haven’t already.

Explore your Options

If all the planning gets too overwhelming, consider using professional pet transportation services. It’s always better to be safe than sorry! 

Pack a Separate Travel bag for your Pet

Have all the essentials such as food, water, and poop bags on hand, and easily accessible to ensure the smooth ride. Treats and your pet’s favorite toys will make your buddy feel comfortable while in the car.

Enlist the Help of Friends and Family

If it’s possible, find a partner to join you on the ride. When it’s their turn to drive, you can relax on the backseat and comfort your best friend.

Get a Temporary Pet Sitter

In the beginning, you might want to keep your pet supervised and hire some help for the times you are not around. You don’t want to leave your Fido all alone in the beginning, because it’s easier to prevent separation anxiety than treat it. 

Be Patient

Even if you thought you were done with housebreaking years ago, the stress of the move might trigger a few accidents in the new house. Just be consistent, use positive reinforcement, and your pet will be feeling at home in no time!

We hope that these tips will help you and your pet get through the move smoothly, and start a happy life in your new home.

Protect your Pets

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Nothing in this article should be construed as financial, legal or veterinary advice. Please consult your own advisors for questions relating to your and your pet’s specific circumstances. 

1 Pet Insurance offered by MetLife Pet Insurance Solutions LLC is underwritten by Independence American Insurance Company (“IAIC”), a Delaware insurance company, headquartered at 485 Madison Avenue, NY, NY 10022, and Metropolitan General Insurance Company (“MetGen”), a Rhode Island insurance company, headquartered at 700 Quaker Lane, Warwick, RI 02886, in those states where MetGen’s policies are available. MetLife Pet Insurance Solutions LLC is the policy administrator authorized by IAIC and MetGen to offer and administer pet insurance policies. MetLife Pet Insurance Solutions LLC was previously known as PetFirst Healthcare, LLC and in some states continues to operate under that name pending approval of its application for a name change. The entity may operate under an alternate, assumed, and/or fictitious name in certain jurisdictions as approved, including MetLife Pet Insurance Services LLC (New York and Minnesota), MetLife Pet Insurance Solutions Agency LLC (Illinois), and such other alternate, assumed, or fictitious names approved by certain jurisdictions.

2 Provided all terms of the policy are met. Application is subject to underwriting review and approval. Like most insurance policies, insurance policies issued by IAIC and MetGen contain certain deductibles, co-insurance, exclusions, exceptions, reductions, limitations, and terms for keeping them in force. For costs, complete details of coverage and exclusions, and a listing of approved states, please contact MetLife Pet Insurance Solutions LLC.