Moving is stressful enough as it is, and having pets along makes it even more so. High heat and humidity in summer can put pets at greater risk of dehydration, overheating, and anxiety, creating unique challenges during a move. 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 affect people too, but these conditions create extra challenges for pets. Heat simply affects them in a different way than it affects people. Unlike people, dogs and other animals don’t sweat, which limits their ability to cool their bodies. Because of this, pets are at increased risk of overheating, dehydration, and heatstroke, which 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. High levels of anxiety can result in destructive or self-harming behaviors, something that’s upsetting for both pet and 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. One smart approach, given this risk, is to time your move for the cooler early morning or late evening hours. It also helps to plan on keeping pets in a cooled, closed-off room with little foot traffic throughout most of the move. Steering clear of the day’s hottest hours and keeping pets in cooled parts of the home can make the move safer and more comfortable for everyone.
Pack a Pet Essentials Bag
As moving disrupts a pet’s routine, it’s a good idea to keep essential items accessible throughout the day. 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. Some essentials to pack are:
- Pet food and snacks
- Portable water and food bowls
- Necessary medications
- Leash and/or harness
- Bags for waste cleanup
- Their favorite toys or chew items
- Items for comfort, such as their bed or a blanket
Having every pet supply within reach on moving day can help take some of the stress off you and your pet.
Keep Pets Hydrated Throughout the Move
Few risks are bigger for pets during a summer move than dehydration. Ensure your pets stay hydrated throughout the day by keeping fresh water accessible, taking regular water breaks, and packing extra water for long-distance travel. It doesn’t have to be complicated—a jug and bowl in your pet’s travel vehicle, or a few extra water bottles in a cooler, will do.
Because of the stress involved, some pets may be hesitant to drink water, and that reluctance can be fairly 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
Summer moves that involve extended travel can pose a real challenge when it comes to keeping your pet safe and comfortable. A modest amount of planning, however, can help minimize stress and keep pets safe.
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. 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. Doing so keeps your pet protected and secure while letting you focus on getting the move done.
If your pet will be traveling with you during the move, it’s important to stay mindful of how dangerous hot vehicle temperatures can be. Do not leave a pet unattended inside a parked vehicle, under any circumstances. On even a mild day, a parked vehicle’s interior can rapidly exceed 100 degrees Fahrenheit, which is extremely risky for any pet. 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. Putting their safety first is essential if you want moving day to go well.
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 Chicago Group 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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