Are you planning a long distance move for your family? Not only will you need to decide how to get yourself and your stuff from A to B, but also your furbabies. Moving long distances with pets can be a little bit stressful and you will need a well-organised plan in place before jumping in the car or flight.

We at Best Rated Transport have plenty of great tips for moving long distances with pets including moving with cats, moving with dogs and moving with guinea pigs and rabbits. We can also assist in transporting large cages and aquariums interstate. 

First things first, you will need to decide how you will get your pet to your new home. If you are flying yourself, you can either bring certain pets on the flight with you, or you can organise pet transport separately. If you would prefer to remain together, it might be a better option to drive. 

Plan Ahead

Start preparing several weeks in advance. This includes researching pet-friendly accommodations and planning your travel route. This is an important part of the research as not all hotels and motels will allow you to have pets. Caravan parks are often a good choice as many are pet-friendly. 

Visit the Vet

Schedule a check-up for your pets. Ensure vaccinations are up to date and ask for health certificates if you’re crossing state lines. Ensure your pets are microchipped and have up-to-date ID tags with your new address and contact information.

Travel Safety

Never leave pets alone in a parked car, as temperatures can rise quickly and become dangerous.

Tips when Moving Long Distance with Dogs and Cats

Make sure the crate you choose is large enough for your pet to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably. If flying, use a sturdy, airline-approved crate. For road trips, a well-ventilated plastic or metal crate works well. Allow your pet  to explore and spend time in the crate before the move to reduce anxiety.

Just like you would pack an essentials box for you and the kids, make sure you have one for your cat or dog too including food, water, bowls, leash, waste bags and their favourite toys or blanket for comfort. 

Schedule regular stops during your drive for bathroom breaks, exercise, and hydration. This is more important for dogs than cats but it’s still nice to take a break and let your cat have a few belly scratches while in the crate. 

Moving with Small Animals (Rabbits, Guinea Pigs, Hamsters)

Our small fur babies often get stressed when there is a change in their regular routine. And moving halfway across the country certainly counts as a bit of a change! They will need to travel in a carrier that is sturdy, escape-proof and with good ventilation. Make sure it’s appropriate for the size and type of animal.

Line the cage with the same things you use at home - blankets, hay, etc. Keep the carrier covered with a light cloth to reduce visual stimuli and stress during the journey.

Pack an essentials box for your pets including food, water, a small water bottle, and any necessary items like a litter box for rabbits or bedding for hamsters.

If you are driving for several days, it might be a good idea to set up an outdoor cage (you can buy these at Kmart for $30) so your pet can roam and enjoy a bit of grass during stopovers. 

Moving with Birds

Use a travel cage designed for birds that provides enough space and ventilation and remove perches and toys that could injure your bird during travel. Ensure food and water containers are secure. You may also want to cover the carrier with a light cloth to create a calm environment during travel.

Ready to Move? Book with Best Rated Transport

Start your journey on the right foot and compare house move quotes for free. Best Rated Transport has helped thousands of people move interstate by providing FREE, no obligation interstate moving quotes from trusted and reliable furniture removalists and container transporters.

Get started today.