Moving is stressful enough as it is, and having pets along makes it even more so. The summer season poses distinct challenges for pets, with high temperatures and humidity raising the odds of 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. The way heat affects pets is simply different from how it affects people. For instance, dogs and other animals don’t sweat, so they’re unable to cool themselves the way people do. This makes them more susceptible to overheating, dehydration, and heatstroke, a condition that can be life-threatening.
Pets can also find the disruption of a move difficult, becoming scared or anxious when their routines are interrupted or they’re somewhere new. Pets under high anxiety may turn to self-harming or destructive behaviors, which can be tough on both the animal and its 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. With that in mind, it makes sense to schedule your move for the cooler hours, whether early morning or late evening. A further strategy worth considering is confining pets to a cool, closed room with minimal traffic for most of the moving process. 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
A move disrupts your pet’s normal routine, so make sure key items stay within reach all day long. 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. Be sure to include:
- Regular food and treats
- Travel bowls and water
- Medicine your pet needs
- A harness or leash for walks
- Cleanup bags
- Go-to toys or chew items
- Comfort items like blankets or a bed
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
Dehydration stands out as one of the top risks pets face when moving in summer. Staying hydrated means keeping fresh water on hand throughout the day, stopping frequently for water breaks, and carrying extra supplies if your move covers a long distance. 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.
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 your pet’s symptoms are severe or persist once the move is over, seek veterinary care right away.
Travel Safely in Hot Weather
A summer move can make it difficult to keep your pet safe and comfortable, especially when the trip involves extended travel. Still, some advance planning can go a long way toward reducing stress and keeping 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. Should you be particularly worried about your pet, or if a crate won’t work, hiring a pet sitter or boarding facility for the day is worth considering. That way, your pet stays safe and secure, and you can concentrate on the move itself.
When your pet is along for the ride during your move, keep the dangers of hot vehicle interiors in mind. Leaving a pet alone in a parked vehicle is never a good idea. Even on days that feel fairly mild, a vehicle’s interior can heat up past 100 degrees Fahrenheit in no time, posing extreme danger to any pet. For their safety and comfort, keep the air conditioning on and restrict their time in the vehicle to when you’re actually driving. For extended trips, make sure to plan rest stops and bring along plenty of water. Their safety should be the top priority for a smooth, successful moving day.
Making Pets Feel Right at Home
Pets can stay safe and comfortable during a summer move when you’re equipped with the right knowledge and preparation.
Searching for a rental home that welcomes pets? Quality rental properties from Real Property Management Connection 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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