Relocating is rarely easy, and it gets even more challenging when you have pets to consider. When pets are part of the picture, summer introduces unique hurdles, as soaring temperatures and humidity can heighten the risk of dehydration, overheating, and anxiety. With the right knowledge and some early preparation, you can keep your pets safe and comfortable throughout the moving process. Continue reading for practical hot-weather tips that make moving with pets this summer a little easier!
Why Summer Moves Can Be Tough on Pets
Hot summer temperatures create several challenges for pets, especially during the moving process. Although humans feel the effects of heat and humidity as well, pets face additional challenges from these conditions. Pets experience heat in a fundamentally different way than humans do. Unlike people, dogs and other animals don’t sweat, which limits their ability to cool their bodies. That puts pets at a greater risk of overheating, dehydration, and even heatstroke severe enough to 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. High levels of anxiety can result in destructive or self-harming behaviors, something that’s upsetting for both pet and 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. One smart approach, given this risk, is to time your move for the cooler early morning or late evening hours. A further strategy worth considering is confining pets to a cool, closed room with minimal traffic for most of the moving process. If you avoid the hottest stretches of the day and keep pets in cooled rooms, the move can be safer and more comfortable for all.
Pack a Pet Essentials Bag
As moving disrupts a pet’s routine, it’s a good idea to keep essential items accessible throughout the day. Building a “pet essentials” kit that travels with your pet helps ensure they have what they need and makes it easier to keep their day-to-day schedule intact. Items worth packing include:
- Food and their favorite treats
- Bowls for water, suited for travel
- Prescription medications
- Harness or leash
- Pet waste bags
- Toys or chew items they love
- Items for comfort, such as their bed or a blanket
When all your pet’s supplies are on hand and ready on moving day, it can ease stress for you and your animal.
Keep Pets Hydrated Throughout the Move
Few risks are bigger for pets during a summer move than dehydration. Make sure your pets remain hydrated by providing fresh water regularly, scheduling frequent water breaks, and bringing along extra water for longer moves. It doesn’t have to be complicated—a jug and bowl in your pet’s travel vehicle, or a few extra water bottles in a cooler, will do.
Because of the stress involved, some pets may be hesitant to drink water, and that reluctance can be fairly 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
Keeping pets safe and comfortable in summer heat is challenging enough, and even more so when the move includes extended travel. A modest amount of planning, however, can help minimize stress and keep pets safe.
If your pet tolerates it well, using a crate or carrier throughout the day can keep them secure and prevent them from getting loose. If possible, keep the carrier in a cool, quiet room during the move to help lessen anxiety as well. If a crate isn’t an option, or you’re especially concerned about your pet, consider a pet sitter or boarding facility for the day. It’s a way to keep your pet secure while you dedicate your attention to the move.
Traveling with your pet as part of the move means staying alert to the risks that high temperatures inside vehicles can pose. A parked vehicle should never be left with a pet inside alone. On even a mild day, a parked vehicle’s interior can rapidly exceed 100 degrees Fahrenheit, which is extremely risky for any pet. Run the air conditioning throughout, and only keep them in the car while you’re actually en route, to keep them safe and comfortable. For extended trips, make sure to plan rest stops and bring along plenty of water. A successful moving day depends on prioritizing their safety above all else.
Making Pets Feel Right at Home
The right planning and know-how can make it possible to keep pets safe and comfortable throughout a summer move.
On the hunt for a pet-friendly place to rent? In your area, Real Property Management DePenn offers quality rental properties built to help residents and their pets feel truly 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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