Moving takes a toll on everyone’s nerves, especially when you’re bringing pets along for the ride. Summer adds its own set of challenges for pet owners, since high heat and humidity can raise the risk of dehydration, overheating, and anxiety in animals. 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
Pets face a number of challenges from summer heat, particularly when a move is underway. Heat and humidity impact people as well, but pets encounter extra obstacles because of them. 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. As a result, they face a higher risk of overheating, dehydration, and even life-threatening heatstroke.
A move’s disruption takes a toll on pets, who may become anxious or fearful when routines change or surroundings feel unfamiliar. 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. It also helps to plan on keeping pets in a cooled, closed-off room with little foot traffic throughout most of the move. By avoiding peak heat hours and keeping pets in air-conditioned areas of the home or apartment, you can make the move safer and more pleasant for all involved.
Pack a Pet Essentials Bag
Since a move throws off a pet’s routine, it helps to keep important items nearby throughout the day. Assembling a “pet essentials” bag or box that goes wherever your pet goes can help ensure their needs are covered and their routine stays as normal as possible. Consider including:
- Their usual food and treats
- Travel bowls and water
- Any medications
- A leash or harness
- Bags for cleaning up after your pet
- Go-to toys or chew items
- Comfort items like blankets or a bed
Keeping all your pet supplies easily accessible on moving day can help lower stress for both you and your pet.
Keep Pets Hydrated Throughout the Move
Dehydration stands out as one of the top risks pets face when moving in summer. 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. 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 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. With a bit of planning, though, you can reduce stress and keep them 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. If crating isn’t an option or you have real concerns about your pet, a pet sitter or boarding facility for the day may be a better fit. That way, your pet stays safe and secure, and you can concentrate on the move itself.
If your move includes traveling with your pet, be sure to stay aware of just how dangerous hot temperatures inside a vehicle can be. 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. Keep the air conditioning running and limit their time in the car to actual travel to keep them safe and comfortable. On longer trips, plan for rest stops and pack plenty of water. Making their safety a top priority is key to a 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.
Ready to find a pet-friendly rental home? Real Property Management North Point provides quality rental properties in your area, designed to help both residents and their 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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