Moving across the country is exciting, but saying it’s complicated is an understatement. You’re coordinating with trucking companies, storage services, jobs, schools, the post office and more. You’re close to being over-budget and out of your mind, but you can’t shake the feeling that you’re forgetting something… your two dogs, the most precious cargo of all!
Having two dogs presents some unique problems during a move. Fortunately, moving with two pets doesn’t have to be stressful or expensive. Here are seven tips that’ll teach you how to move with two dogs while staying within your budget.
1. Check Local Pet Regulations at Your New Home
Every state, city and county has different pet laws. If your new home has an HOA, it probably has some, too. Before your move, check local regulations. Maybe your current home doesn’t have strict leash laws, but your new one does. This can save you from being slapped with a fine before you get a chance to get settled.
2. Acclimate Your Two Dogs To Moving and Moving Supplies
Dogs love routines, so moving is probably the biggest change they’ve experienced since you welcomed them home. Many pet owners rely on anti-anxiety medication during moving, but that can be costly and sometimes unnecessary. Always consult a vet first, though.
Instead, pack slowly and over a long period. Let your two dogs get used to everything going into boxes and moving around. They can sniff around and watch you work. Try to keep as close to their normal eating, sleeping and playing routines as possible. If you keep up a slow and steady pace, neither you or your dogs will be thrown off by last-minute changes.
3. Transport Your Two Dogs Yourself
If you’re driving across country, consider taking your two dogs yourself. If you do this, however, you may have to reorganize your moving plans. Dogs should never be transported around large, unsecured pieces of cargo. Ideally, you and your two dogs will share a vehicle without many boxes.
You’ll always know where your dogs are and can keep them on their own schedules. Remember to plan for gas, food, stops and hotels that require a fee to stay with your two dogs.
4. Don’t Rely on Airlines for Safe Pet Transportation Services
If you’re moving plan involves a plane trip, it might seem convenient to fly your two dogs on the same airline as yourself. Unfortunately, you only have two options: fly them in the cargo hold or bring them as a carryon.
If you have two dogs, the carryon option isn’t realistic, especially if your dogs are larger breeds. In 2017, the U.S. Department of Transportation reported 24 deaths, 15 injuries and one case of lost pets from regular airlines moving pets in cargo holds. They may fly people anywhere and everywhere, but airlines are not pet specialists.
The ordeal may make your two dogs nervous, impacting their mental and physical health, requiring vet treatment. Plus, delays or layovers may result in your pets being moved to other flights, separating them completely and creating fees for you. The costs and risks to your pets’ health increases. Instead, rely on pet relocation services to avoid hidden costs and risks to your pets’ safety.
5. Hire an In-cabin Handler
If you have two dogs under 20 pounds and cannot be with them on a flight, hire a trained, in-air dog sitter. This is a great option for dog owners with small children or people that otherwise might have their attention diverted on a flight. Two dogs need constant attention in the air.
Ideally, an in-air handler is experienced and provides personalized treatment. This can include giving them their favorite toys and treats. With a nanny, your pets will never go into the cargo area and will have a safe, comfortable kennel. Costs vary but generally include all airline costs and a fee for the handler.
6. Look Into Shared Ride Pet Transportation Services
While pet transportation services can be expensive, some offer safe, reliable shared ride programs. The company transports your two dogs with others along a planned route. This way, you share transportation costs with other conscientious pet owners.
A reputable pet transportation service will still give your two dogs individual care from a professional pet handler. This way, you balance your moving budget without sacrificing your dogs’ safety. Your two dogs won’t be completely separated like they might be when flying in an airline cargo hold.
7. Do Your Research
The pet transport industry is rapidly growing. Market research firm IBISWorld expects the pet transportation industry to earn $1.9 billion by the end of 2021. While it’s fantastic that pet owners have more choices than ever before, that growth also increases the risk of being scammed.
Anyone will want to ask pet transport companies questions before they entrust them with their two dogs, but you have to ask the right questions. This ensures your pets’ safety and saves you from paying hidden fees. Come to every pet transportation service with these questions:
- What certifications do you have and can I have proof?
- Are you insured?
- How long have you been in business?
- How often do you stay in contact and how can I track my two dogs?
- Can you follow my specific requests?
- Can I have an upfront quote? What are potential add-on costs?
- Do you have pet health certification?
A reputable pet transportation service will answer these clearly. For an added layer of security, read reviews across multiple platforms. Check one-star reviews, five-star reviews and everything in between.
Blue Collar Pet Transport: Moving Your Two Dogs With Confidence
Blue Collar Pet Transport ticks all those boxes. We are USDA-certified and offer shared pet transport for movers on a budget. Your two dogs will move cross-country safely and probably more comfortably than you will. Get in touch with us today to learn about budget options, airplane pet nannies, private jet pet transport and more.