Moving is stressful enough as it is, and having pets along makes it even more so. Pets face their own set of summer-specific risks, since elevated temperatures and humidity can lead to dehydration, overheating, and anxiety. By preparing early and knowing what to expect, you can help keep your pets safe and comfortable throughout the move. Read on for tips on moving with pets in hot weather, designed to make your summer move go more smoothly!
Why Summer Moves Can Be Tough on Pets
Summer heat brings a range of challenges for pets, especially amid the chaos of a move. Humans deal with heat and humidity too, yet these conditions bring added difficulties for pets. Heat simply affects them in a different way than it affects people. Since dogs and other animals don’t sweat, they can’t regulate their body temperature the way people can. This makes them more susceptible to overheating, dehydration, and heatstroke, a condition that can be life-threatening.
The upheaval of a move can be hard on pets as well, since breaking from routine or facing unfamiliar surroundings can leave them feeling anxious or scared. Elevated anxiety can trigger destructive or self-harming behaviors, causing distress for pets and owners alike.
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. Because of this, it’s wise to plan your move around the cooler early morning or late evening hours. You might also plan to keep pets in a cooled, closed-off space with little foot traffic during most of the move. Making the move safer and more comfortable often comes down to avoiding the hottest hours and keeping pets in cool parts of the home or apartment.
Pack a Pet Essentials Bag
Because your pet’s routine gets disrupted during a move, having important items close at hand throughout the day is essential. Putting together a “pet essentials” box or bag that stays with your pet can help make sure they have what they need while keeping their schedule as close to normal as possible. Items you’ll want on hand include:
- Pet food and snacks
- Water plus a set of travel bowls
- Medicine your pet needs
- A harness or leash for walks
- Cleanup bags
- Their favorite toys or chew items
- Blankets, beds, or other comfort items
With all the necessary pet supplies close at hand on moving day, stress can be reduced for you and your pet alike.
Keep Pets Hydrated Throughout the Move
Among the risks pets face during a summer move, dehydration is one of the most significant. To help your pets stay hydrated, offer plenty of fresh water throughout the day, pause often for water breaks, and pack extra water if you’re moving long distance. 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.
Some pets might resist drinking water due to moving-related stress, and mild reluctance is often nothing unusual. But watch them carefully for signs of heat stress, including excessive panting, lethargy, difficulty walking, vomiting, and other signs of illness. Severe or ongoing symptoms after the move call for an immediate trip to the vet.
Travel Safely in Hot Weather
It can be challenging to keep your pet safe and comfortable during a summer move, particularly if extended travel is involved. Even so, a little preparation can help lower stress levels and keep your pet safe.
Using a crate or carrier, if your pet can manage it, helps keep them secure and prevents escapes throughout moving day. Setting the carrier up in a cool, quiet room while the move is underway can help reduce their anxiety too. For pets that can’t use a crate, or if you’re especially worried, consider a day with a pet sitter or boarding facility instead. This option keeps your pet safe while giving you the freedom to concentrate on moving.
When your pet is along for the ride during your move, keep the dangers of hot vehicle interiors in mind. Do not leave a pet unattended inside a parked vehicle, under any circumstances. Temperatures inside a car can quickly soar past 100 degrees Fahrenheit, even on relatively mild days, putting any pet in serious danger. For their safety and comfort, keep the air conditioning on and restrict their time in the vehicle to when you’re actually driving. Bring plenty of water and schedule rest stops if the trip is a long one. Their safety should be the top priority for a smooth, successful moving day.
Making Pets Feel Right at Home
With proper planning and the right information, keeping pets safe and comfortable during a summer move is achievable.
In search of a pet-friendly rental home? Real Property Management Advantage offers quality rentals in your area, designed with residents and their pets in mind so everyone feels 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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