Moving your pets can be stressful on them and yourself. Pre-planning is the key to an easier transfer, regardless of the mode of transportation chosen. Travel arrangements should be completed as far in advance of moving day as is possible, keeping departure day tasks to a minimum.
As with most cross country moving companies, pets can not be moved on the moving van. Nor, except for Seeing-Eye dogs accompanying blind persons, are they permitted on trains or buses. Transportation for your pets is limited to two – by air, with the pet either accompanying you or in an appropriate container traveling as air freight, or travel by your personal motor vehicle.
Prior to making any travel arrangements, you should do the following:
- Take pet to veterinarian for checkup and health documents – apply for entry permit if one is needed; inquire about sedation for pet; obtain pet’s health record; schedule second visit to vet if necessary; ask vet to recommend a colleague in the new city
- Obtain travel identification tag
- Check destination state’s pet entry regulations
Out of state movers should be aware that nearly every state and country has laws applicable to the entry of dogs, cats, horses, exotic birds and other pets. It is important that you comply with the laws of the state/country to which you are moving; otherwise, you may be subject to prosecution. Premier Relocations suggests contacting the State Veterinarian in the capital city of your new home state well in advance of your move for specific laws concerning entry of your pet. International transferees will be directed by their move coordinator.