Preparations for Traveling with Pets

If you are moving from another state and are planning to travel with pets, certain preparations should be made ahead of time in order to make the move as smooth as possible for you and your pet.

What preparations should I make before traveling?

• Carry health and rabies certificates with you. Airlines and state health officials generally require health certificates for all animals transported by air. They are required if you cross international borders. In most cases, health certificates must be issued by a licensed veterinarian examining the animal within 10 days of transport.
• Ask your veterinarian to provide any required vaccinations and treatments. Does your pet have appropriate heartworm protection if the mosquito season begins earlier or ends later in the area you will be traveling to? Administer tranquilizers with the prescribed dosage only if specifically prescribed by your veterinarian.
• Pack your pet’s water and food bowls, food, grooming equipment and any medication they may require. If you are not certain your pet’s diet will be available at your destination, take a supply with you to avoid digestive upsets.

Are there entry requirements per state?
Interstate health certificates must be obtained for dogs and horses prior to entering most states. Nearly all states require a rabies vaccine for dogs, and many require them for cats. Hawaii requires that cats and dogs be quarantined for 120 days.

If your move is across state lines, call or write to the State Veterinarian, State Department of Animal Husbandry, or other authority.

Do professional movers take pets?
No. Federal regulations prohibit moving companies from shipping animals in moving vans. If your pets and plants can’t travel with you, ask your professional mover to help you safely transport them to your new home. Pets and plants travel best in your own car.

The importance of identification
Securing identification is one of the most important preparations you can make. Be sure your pet’s identification tags are securely attached. Attach tags to your pet’s collar or leg band (for birds). ID tags should include your pet’s name, your name, address and phone number, destination address and phone number. Most states also require dogs and cats to have a rabies tag on their collars.

Take color pictures of your pet and make a written description of its colorings and distinguishing marks. Record your pet’s body size and weight. If your pet is lost, these identification aids could make the difference in locating it.