A move can be a stressful experience for anyone, and that stress often multiplies when pets are involved. Summer adds its own set of challenges for pet owners, since high heat and humidity can raise the risk of dehydration, overheating, and anxiety in animals. Planning ahead and understanding the risks can help your pets stay safe and at ease during your upcoming move. Keep reading for hot-weather pet moving tips that can make this summer’s move easier for everyone!
Why Summer Moves Can Be Tough on Pets
During a move, summer temperatures can present pets with several distinct challenges. Heat and humidity impact people as well, but pets encounter extra obstacles because of them. Heat impacts animals differently than it does humans. Since dogs and other animals don’t sweat, they can’t regulate their body temperature the way people can. Because of this, pets are at increased risk of overheating, dehydration, and heatstroke, which can be life-threatening.
Moving disrupts a pet’s normal routine too, which can leave them feeling scared or anxious in unfamiliar surroundings. Pets under high anxiety may turn to self-harming or destructive behaviors, which can be tough on both the animal and its owner.
To avoid these issues, it is important to include pet safety in your summer move plans.
Beat the Heat Whenever Possible
The most important aspect of keeping pets safe during a warm-weather move is to manage how much they are exposed to high temperatures. For that reason, scheduling your move during the cooler parts of the day—early morning or late evening—is one of the smartest strategies. It also helps to plan on keeping pets in a cooled, closed-off room with little foot traffic throughout most of the move. If you avoid the hottest stretches of the day and keep pets in cooled rooms, the move can be safer and more comfortable for all.
Pack a Pet Essentials Bag
Moving day upends a pet’s routine, which is why important items should stay within easy reach the whole day. Packing a “pet essentials” box or bag that moves with your pet can help guarantee they have everything they need and make their schedule easier to maintain. Consider including:
- Meals and treats
- Bowls for water, suited for travel
- Any medications
- Leash and/or harness
- Bags for cleaning up after your pet
- Preferred toys or chewables
- Blankets, beds, or other comfort items
Keeping all your pet supplies easily accessible on moving day can help lower stress for both you and your pet.
Keep Pets Hydrated Throughout the Move
Few risks are bigger for pets during a summer move than dehydration. Make sure your pets remain hydrated by providing fresh water regularly, scheduling frequent water breaks, and bringing along extra water for longer moves. This could be as straightforward as keeping a jug and bowl in the pet’s travel vehicle, or storing extra water bottles in a cooler.
Moving stress can make some pets less willing to drink water, and some degree of reluctance is typically normal. But watch them carefully for signs of heat stress, including excessive panting, lethargy, difficulty walking, vomiting, and other signs of illness. If any symptoms seem serious or don’t go away after the move, take your pet to the veterinarian right away.
Travel Safely in Hot Weather
Extended travel during a summer move can make it harder to keep your pet safe and comfortable. That said, planning ahead can help ease stress and keep them out of harm’s way.
As an example, a pet crate or carrier can help keep your pet secure and stop escapes throughout the day, provided they can tolerate it. Placing the carrier in a cool, quiet room during the move can also help ease their anxiety. When a crate isn’t feasible or you’re especially concerned, a pet sitter or boarding facility for the day can be a good alternative. It’s a way to keep your pet secure while you dedicate your attention to the move.
If your move includes traveling with your pet, be sure to stay aware of just how dangerous hot temperatures inside a vehicle can be. Never leave your pet by themselves inside a parked vehicle. Temperatures inside a car can quickly soar past 100 degrees Fahrenheit, even on relatively mild days, putting any pet in serious danger. Keeping them safe and comfortable means running the AC and limiting car time strictly to travel periods. For extended trips, make sure to plan rest stops and bring along plenty of water. Making their safety a top priority is key to a successful moving day.
Making Pets Feel Right at Home
The right planning and know-how can make it possible to keep pets safe and comfortable throughout a summer move.
In search of a pet-friendly rental home? Quality rental properties from Real Property Management Catalyst are available in your area, designed to help both residents and pets feel right at home. Contact our team today to learn more about available pet-friendly rental opportunities near you!
This content is provided for general informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute financial, legal, tax, or investment advice. Readers should consult with licensed professionals regarding their specific circumstances.
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