Moving is an inevitable part of military life, often filled with a whirlwind of emotions. Amidst the excitement of the new adventure and chaos of endless packing, you may overlook the stress taking a toll on your pet. 

Pets take comfort in routines, and military relocating can be a major disruptor. Luckily, proper planning can make moving with pets much easier. Here are essential steps to smoothen the transition for everyone in your household during a Permanent Change of Station (PCS).

Preparing for the Move

Before you move, start researching any pet import regulations to where you’re relocating. Identify necessary travel requirements such as licenses, health documents and breed restrictions. In addition, schedule a visit to your vet for a detailed check-up and update your military pet’s vaccines. 

Packing for your pet is another essential step when preparing to move. Create a pet-specific travel checklist that includes your pets’ favorite items to keep them comfortable during and after relocating. The essentials include their food, bowls, medications, toys and bedding. Additionally, update their ID tags and microchip information with your new address and contact details.

Maintaining your pet’s schedule is another crucial part of preparation in the weeks or days leading up to the move. Regular walks, feeding time and play routines help keep military pets happy and calm during the moving process. 

Travel Day Tips

On the day of the move, consider keeping your pet in a quiet, familiar room that you intend to pack up last. This step ensures your pet doesn’t disrupt the movers or get lost during the chaos of moving. Once it’s their turn to load up, ensure their travel arrangements meet their needs. For instance, when moving by car or air:

• Cats travel well in a carrier.
• Dogs can find a relaxing spot in a crate with a comfortable blanket or bed.
• Carry gerbils, hamsters and guinea pigs in their cages as long as there is plenty of shade and ventilation.
• Store fish in plastic bags with water inside a styrofoam container.
• Secure the bird cage with a cord to minimize rattling.
• Reptile pets appreciate having hot water bottles close to their travel carriers.

It’s important to consider your pets’ well-being by ensuring they are safe and secured in an appropriately sized carrier or crate. Also, plan for regular breaks to allow your pet to stretch, hydrate, and relieve themselves. Gradual crate training before the moving day helps your pet acclimate to the confined space. You can also consider sedation following vet instructions to reduce stress during the journey. 

Settling Into Your New Home

Upon arriving at your new home, choose a quiet area where your pet can have their bed, toys and food. Gradually introduce them to different parts of the house, allowing them to explore their pace. Stick to their usual routines to ease their transition and make them feel more secure in the new space. Also, pet-proof your new home by tucking away electrical cords, removing poisonous houseplants, closing toilet lids and securing all windows and doors. 

With the right preparations and resources, relocating with pets can be a manageable and even positive experience. Your patience and attention are key to helping them feel comfortable in their new surroundings. You may also receive reimbursement for expenses incurred when moving with pets during a PCS. Check out MedCerts for other resources, including career and education opportunities, to help ease military life during transitions.