Everyone finds moving stressful, but it becomes even more so when pets are part of the move. When pets are part of the picture, summer introduces unique hurdles, as soaring temperatures and humidity can heighten the risk of dehydration, overheating, and anxiety. A little early planning combined with the right knowledge can help ensure your pets stay safe and comfortable during your move. Read ahead for tips on handling hot-weather pet moves, so your summer relocation goes more smoothly!
Why Summer Moves Can Be Tough on Pets
Hot summer temperatures create several challenges for pets, especially during the moving process. While people also struggle with heat and humidity, pets face further challenges as a result of these conditions. The way heat affects pets is simply different from how it affects people. As an example, dogs and other animals can’t sweat, leaving them unable to cool down the way humans can. As a result, they face a higher risk of overheating, dehydration, and even life-threatening heatstroke.
Moving disrupts a pet’s normal routine too, which can leave them feeling scared or anxious in unfamiliar surroundings. When anxiety runs high, it can lead to self-harming or destructive behavior, which is difficult for both pets and their owners.
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. That’s why one of the smartest moves you can make is scheduling your relocation for the cooler hours of early morning or late evening. 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
A move disrupts your pet’s normal routine, so make sure key items stay within reach all day long. A dedicated “pet essentials” bag or box that travels alongside your pet can help ensure their needs are met and keep their routine feeling as normal as possible. Items worth packing include:
- Meals and treats
- Water plus a set of travel bowls
- Medicine your pet needs
- Harness or leash
- Waste disposal bags
- Go-to toys or chew items
- Comfort items, for example blankets or beds
Making sure pet supplies are readily available on moving day can reduce stress levels for both you and your pet.
Keep Pets Hydrated Throughout the Move
One of the biggest risks your pets face during a summer move is dehydration. Keep your pets hydrated all day by making sure fresh water is always available, taking frequent breaks for water, and bringing extra water along for long-distance 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.
The stress of moving may leave some pets reluctant to drink water, and a bit of hesitation can be 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. Still, some advance planning can go a long way toward reducing stress and keeping them safe.
When your pet can tolerate it, a crate or carrier is a good way to keep them secure and prevent escapes during the day. Keeping the carrier in a cool, quiet space during the move can further help calm your pet’s 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. This option keeps your pet safe while giving you the freedom to concentrate on moving.
Should your pet be traveling with you during the move, it’s essential to remain aware of the risks posed by hot vehicle interiors. Leaving a pet alone in a parked vehicle is never a good idea. Even mild weather can allow a vehicle’s interior to quickly climb well past 100 degrees Fahrenheit, a dangerous condition for any pet. Keep the air conditioning running and limit their time in the car to actual travel to keep them safe and comfortable. Bring plenty of water and schedule rest stops if the trip is a long one. To make moving day a success, their safety needs to come first.
Making Pets Feel Right at Home
With the right knowledge and planning, it’s entirely possible to keep pets safe and comfortable during a summer move.
Searching for a rental home that welcomes pets? Real Property Management Trailhead has quality rental properties in your area designed with residents and their pets in mind, so everyone feels 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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