If you have a furry family member, the logistics of an impending move can leave you overwhelmed and reeling with questions and concerns. Moving can be extra challenging if driving your pet to your new home on your own isn’t in the cards.
How will you get your pet safely and comfortably to your new home at a time that works for you?
Does the idea of shipping your pet as cargo underneath a plane give you a pit in your stomach?
These days, many devoted pet owners are using exclusive services to ship a pet to different parts of the country. The move might still be hard on you, but it doesn’t need to be hard on your pet.
Keep reading to find out more about the pet relocation services available and what you need to do to prepare your pet for travel.
How To Ship A Pet To Another State
Whether you are looking for a standard pet shipping service or want your pet to experience the height of luxury on their journey, you’ll find a service to fit your needs.
Let’s look into some of the different full-service shipping options available.
Shared Ride Pet Transport
Shared-ride transport is an excellent option for those who want the best for their pet but are working within a budget.
With shared-ride transport, your pet will travel in the company of other pets on a pre-planned route across the country.
Your pet will travel in a comfortable and safe vehicle accompanied by a caring and experienced animal care professional.
Air Pet Transport
Air pet transport is the best option if you want private, customized care and attention for your pet. It’s more expensive to fly your pet than to transport them via a ride-share, but for many pet owners, it’s worth it.
With air pet transport, your pet will travel in the care of a trusted pet nanny. Your pet’s nanny will make sure your furry friend feels safe and comfortable while they travel to their new home.
Air pet transport ensures the best possible individualized care for your pet.
Private Pet Transport
With private pet transport, your pet will fly on a direct flight to their new home in the care of a trusted pet nanny.
This service is ideal for owners of older and larger pets who require a little extra monitoring and care.
Private Jet Pet Transport
Private jet transport is the pinnacle of luxury when it comes to shipping a pet to another state.
Private jet pet transport is the most personalized option when it comes to pet travel. With private jet pet transport, you call all the shots. You decide when you want your pet picked up and when you want them dropped off.
The best part about private jet pet transport is, if you’re heading on vacation, you can even bring the whole family along on your pet’s chartered flight!
Preparing Your Pet For Travel
Now that you know the different options to ship a pet, let’s talk about what you need to do to prepare your pet for their journey.
There are just a few steps you’ll need to take before sending off your furry friend.
Collect the Required Documents
If your pet crosses state lines, you will need to provide a Certificate of Veterinary Inspection (CVI). For air travel, your pet will require an Airline Veterinary Health Certificate.
It is important to get these certificates promptly and not the day before your pet is scheduled to travel.
To acquire these certificates, talk to your pet’s veterinarian. They are usually licensed to provide this.
To get a CVI, your pet needs to be up to date on all of its vaccinations. They also need to be in good health. It is worthwhile to get a copy of your pet’s vaccination record as well.
Talk to your vet about your plans to move and transport your pet. They’ll be able to help you determine the best approach and let you know if your pet is a good candidate for transport.
Your vet might offer medication for your pet during travel. It’s up to you if you choose to medicate your pet.
Tranquilizers can help reduce your pet’s stress, but they can also cause unanticipated side effects that would be difficult to address mid-journey.
Choose the Right Crate or Container
The next thing you’ll need to decide on is what type of crate or container you want to use to transport your pet. You’ll need the right type of container to ensure your pet is safe and sound.
Ideally, the container should be large enough so that your pet can stand and turn around comfortably.
On the other hand, the container should not be so roomy that your pet can bounce around. This could result in injury to your pet.
The best containers are sturdy, leakproof, padded, and have proper ventilation. If you choose a container with these qualities, your pet will be much more comfortable.
The crate you choose should also have a handle or rollers. This will allow the transporter to carry or move your pet without jostling them too much. If you’ve ever watched a video from inside a pet carrier, you know how bumpy it can be!
It’s also a good idea to label your crate with stickers that say “Live Animal” and “This Side Up.”
To Microchip, Or Not To Microchip?
It’s not required to microchip your pet before travel, but it is often recommended.
Accidents happen, and sometimes pets get lost. It is much easier to find a lost pet that has a microchip than one that doesn’t
When you microchip your pet, they get a unique identification number that cannot be removed and stays with them for as long as they live. This chip also contains your contact information.
Microchipping not a perfect solution, but it is the most certain way to ensure you get reunited with your pet if they are ever lost.
Ship Your Pet In Style
Now that you know the ins and outs of how to prepare your pet for travel and the variety of services available to ship a pet, you’ll want to find the service that best suits you.
Blue Collar Pet Transport is a leader in respectful and humane pet transport services. If you need to ship a pet to another state, look no further.
Fill out this quick form to get a free quote today or send an email to reservation@bluecollarpettransport.com.