Transportation Methods
Now you are ready to relocate your pet, the question is how?! Pets cannot be moved on the moving van, nor are they permitted on buses or
trains (except for Seeing Eye dogs).
Pet Movers
Depending on the temperament and size of your pet, you may want to consider using a professional pet carrier. Pet Carriers can organize
every aspect of the relocation of your pet. Services may include:
- Sensible advice on preparing your pet for the trip
- Specific details about requirements or restrictions for state and local regulations in your new locality.
- Collecting your pet at the airport.
- Boarding your pet until you arrive
- Delivery of your pet to your new home
Air Transportation
- Airlines that accept pets for transportation have specific regulations whether they are accompanied or not. Some airlines allow pets inside
the passenger cabin (first come, first serve basis); keep in mind that your pet will have to be placed in a pet carrier no longer than 21″x18″x8″,
small enough to fit under the seat. Be sure to ask about transportation charges and pet insurance.
- Please see our Moving with Cats or Moving with Dogs articles for more information.
- *Caution* The Animal Welfare Act prohibits air transportation of puppies & kittens less than 8 weeks old and prior to weaning, whether
accompanied or not.
- Pets not accompanied by the owner, must travel air freight (small pets such as birds, tropical fish, hamsters, snakes, etc. must be shipped by
Air Express, a division of air freight). Minimize your pet’s stress by avoiding through-checking and changing planes
Car Transportation
- Car travel is one of the most common ways of pet transportation. It provides a feeling of security for you and your pets, and it tends to be
less expensive. If your pet is not used to car travel, it is recommended to take it on short rides before the trip to help your pet get accustomed
to the motion of the car.
- Be sure not to feed your pet for a few hours before you leave. After you are on the road, feed your pet only once daily.
- While riding in the car, do not let your pet hand out the window. Dirt and insects can fly into its eyes and can cause irritation and/or infection.
Remember to keep your power windows locked to prevent your pet from lowering the window and jumping out. If you car does not have air
conditioning, leave the windows cracked 1-1 1/2 inches; pets need plenty of air.
- Hotel Stay: If you anticipate stopping overnight with your pet, be sure to contact several motels/hotels in advance to confirm your pet will be
admitted. No pet should be left in the car overnight. (Please see our Moving with Cats or Moving with Dogs articles for more information).