Everyone finds moving stressful, but it becomes even more so when pets are part of the move. 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
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.
Pets also struggle with the disruption a move brings, often feeling scared or anxious when their usual routines are thrown off or they’re in unfamiliar places. Severe anxiety can cause pets to engage in destructive or self-harming behaviors, distressing for everyone involved.
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. A further strategy worth considering is confining pets to a cool, closed room with minimal traffic for most of the moving process. By avoiding peak heat hours and keeping pets in air-conditioned areas of the home or apartment, you can make the move safer and more pleasant for all involved.
Pack a Pet Essentials Bag
Since a move throws off a pet’s routine, it helps to keep important items nearby throughout the day. 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 you’ll want on hand include:
- Meals and treats
- Water plus a set of travel bowls
- Any medications
- Harness or leash
- Waste disposal bags
- Go-to toys or chew items
- Comfort items, for example blankets or beds
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
One of the biggest risks your pets face during a summer move is 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 can be as easy as placing a water jug and bowl in the vehicle your pet rides in, or packing extra water bottles in a cooler.
It’s not unusual for some pets to be reluctant to drink water because of moving stress. But watch them carefully for signs of heat stress, including excessive panting, lethargy, difficulty walking, vomiting, and other signs of illness. If your pet’s symptoms are severe or persist once the move is over, seek veterinary care right away.
Travel Safely in Hot Weather
Extended travel during a summer move can make it harder to keep your pet safe and comfortable. With a bit of planning, though, you can reduce stress and keep them 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. 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. If the trip is long, be sure to plan rest stops and carry plenty of water. Their safety should be the top priority for a smooth, successful moving day.
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.
On the hunt for a pet-friendly place to rent? Real Property Management Tri-State Area provides quality rental properties in your area, designed to help both residents and their 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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