Moving Pets and Plants

Moving pets and plants to new location is not an easy task, even if you move just few blocks away. The following topics will help you move your pets and plants safely to their new home:

1. Preparing your pet for the move

2. Driving with your pet

3. Flying your pet

4. Animal transport services

5. Moving your house plants

6. Moving your garden plants

Preparing your pet for the move

When preparing your pet for the move be aware of the following issues:

Veterinarian: Don’t forget to schedule an appointment with your veterinarian. Your pet should have a check-up before moving. Be sure to attain your pet's veterinary records so that they can be forwarded to your new veterinarian. Make sure you carry copies of the records with you during the move.

Travel Carrier: If you plan to move your pet, you may need to purchase a pet travel carrier for the trip. The carrier should be large enough for the pet to stand, turn around and lie down in. The carrier should have ample ventilation, a good bottom lining, and a secure door closing.

ID Tag: When moving your dog or cat make sure it is wearing an ID tag bearing its name, your name and new address, and a phone number to call in case of emergency.

Fish: If you plan to move your fish visit your local aquarium or pet shop and ask for special fish containers. They should be able to offer suggestions on how to transport different types of fish and other aquatic animals.

Restrictions on pets: Certain localities may have strict requirements or restrictions regarding pet ownership. Once you've made the decision to move to a new home, you will need to do some research. Some communities have local regulations regarding number and types of pet’s allowed, leash laws, etc., and you may need permits or registrations. Call the city or town hall and ask for the bureau of licenses.

Pet Resume: You might need to prepare a pet resume for prospective landlords, if your new home will be rented. Ask your veterinarian for a referral letter.

Moving Day: Keep your pet calm and away from all the activity on moving day by arranging with a friend to watch him at their house. If you plan to keep you pet close to you prepare a room for your pet to stay at during the move. Clear a room of all furniture and other belongings and close your pet in with food, water and a favorite toy or two. Your pet still might not be happy, but you'll know where it is, and that it's safe.

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Driving with your pet

If you move your pets by car your dog or cat may find car travel extremely distressing. Make sure to stop frequently to allow your pet to exercise and relieve itself. There are several things you should plan on taking with you on moving day:

• An old bed sheet or blanket will protect your car upholstery.

• A favorite toy or two, and an old T-shirt or rag with your scent on it.

• Two plastic containers - one should have fresh water, the other should have food and treats.

• Medications that your pet may need.

• A leash for when you make rest stops with your pet.

• Even if your pet doesn't typically get car sick, you should bring paper towels, a sponge, and plenty of plastic bags.

Cats: Cats should always be kept in a carrier during auto travel. Since cats don't usually adjust to auto travel the way dogs do, it might be a good idea to have your vet prescribe a mild tranquilizer.

Hotels: Long distance moves may require an overnight stop. Remember to call hotels in advance to make sure that they will allow your pet to stay in the hotel.

Parking: If you move your pet by car, never leave him unattended in a parked car. This is especially true during the hot summer months, when the temperature in your car can rise to 120 degrees.

Small Pets: Smaller animals, such as hamsters and birds, can easily be transported by car with you. Make sure there is plenty of food and water and cover the cage with a cloth to keep them calm.

State Inspections: If moving your pet by car, be aware that some states conduct border inspections or random inspections by highway patrol officers. Just to be on the safe side, check the regulations of every state you plan to pass through.

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Flying your pet

If you plan to fly your pet, make your flight arrangements far in advance and try to book a direct flight. Many airlines have restrictions on the total number of pets allowed onboard for any one flight. You may also be surprised to find that some airlines don’t allow pets at all. Expect to pay a fee for your pets travel accommodations.

Airline Restrictions: If you plan to fly your pet, find out any restrictions that may apply. Call the airline’s reservations number and ask if you’ll be able to bring your pet onboard as a carry-on. This is highly preferable when compared against the alternative of checking your pet in the planes cargo hold.

Health Certificate: Plan to visit your veterinarian within 30 days prior to your flight. Most airlines require an up-to-date health certificate. Different countries and states may also have their own requirements, so make sure to check in with the proper authorities before your trip.

Pet Container: You may use your own pet container for your pet if it meets airline regulations. If it doesn’t, the airline will provide one for you.

Dogs: If you plan to fly your dog, always take him for a long walk before the trip. Never feed your pet too much before the flight.

Sedation: Usually, your pet will need to be sedated before flying. However, do not sedate your pet if it is not absolutely necessary.

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Animal transport services

If you want to assure safe transportation of your pet, you should consider hiring an animal transport service. The expense may be justified by the peace of mind that your pet will be with people who make their living transporting animals. They are professional, and they care about animals, and it will take away some of the stress of moving.

Reputable pet transporters can organize every aspect of moving your pet from beginning to end. Pet transporters can help you with many issues, such as:

Don't forget to confirm rules and regulations with your pet transporter so that you can purchase any pet products that may be needed. Remember to advise your pet transporter of any specific requirements for your pet.

Whether you use a service or arrange airfreight for your pet on your own, make sure you reserve well in advance and follow the instructions carefully.

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Moving your house plants

When moving your house plants keep in mind the following tips:

Pruning: You should prune your house plants two or three weeks before you move. This way you ensure leaves are not damaged during transportation and also promote new growth to the plant. Note it is not advisable to prune cacti or succulents. Consult a plant book or a florist for instructions.

Pest Treatment: A week before you move you should treat your plant for pests. Place your plant in a black plastic bag. In the same bag place a bug/pest strip, conventional flea collar or bug powder. Then close the bag and place in a cool area overnight. This will kill any pests on the plant or in the soil.

Cuttings: If you have to leave your plants behind, you can take cuttings. Put them in a plastic bag with wet paper towels around them.

Packing: When you prepare your plants for move place them in cardboard boxes and clearly label "DO NOT LOAD" so they won't mistakenly be taken on the moving van. Cushion the leaves with wet paper towel and place a final layer of wet paper towel on top to keep them moist. Before loading into your car close the boxes and punch air holes in the top.

Driving: When moving plants to your new residence via your car, try not to let foliage rest against the windows, as the leaves will scorch. Pay attention where you park your car. Look for a shaded area in the summer and a sunny spot in the winter.

Unpacking: The plants should be unpacked as soon as possible after arrival. To avoid breaking the stems, remove plants through the bottom of the box. Initially, do not expose the plants to large amounts of light. Allow them to gradually become accustomed to more illumination.

Insulation: You can protect your plants from temperature fluctuations during transport by insulating each plant. Wrapping layers of dry newspaper around the root ball or around the plastic pots and the plant stem is useful in insulating each plant. The colder the temperature, the more insulation will be needed.

Watering: Water your plants the evening before the day the plants are to be transported. Remember, if you are moving during the winter months water in the root system may freeze during transport. During warm weather, plants with an abundance of water in the root systems may develop fungus.

State Regulations: If you plan to move your house plants call your local U.S. Department of Agriculture to check on regulations if moving from one state to another. Many states have restrictions on certain kinds of plants to prevent importing bugs or pests that can destroy valuable cash crops in that state.

Moving Companies: Most moving companies will not take your plants in the moving van, as there is little chance they will survive. There are no temperature controls in a moving van, and temperature changes may be extreme. In addition, the plants will not be watered, or receive any sunlight, from the time they leave until the time they arrive. Should a mover allow your plants to be loaded with the rest of your belongings - it will be at your own risk.

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Moving your garden plants

When moving garden plants make sure that your plants will be able to survive their new surroundings. Research the climate and soils of your new home.

Seeds: Seeds can be transported safely if stored in an airtight container.

Bulbs: Bulbs should be dug up and transported during their natural dormant season. They should be packed in a mixture of vermiculite and loose, dry peat moss.

Garden Tools: When moving your garden tools and equipment clean and disinfect rakes, hoes and sprinklers. Household bleach can be used to disinfect a variety of items. The blades of lawn mowers, clippers, and shears should be sharpened and then a coating of household or motor oil should be applied to protect parts.

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