Planning to move homes during the summer season often means you’re dealing with hot weather and thunderstorms that could affect your plans. Still, summer relocations are popular. We suggest you consider the challenges well in advance, especially if you’re moving with your pets.
After all, summer in Australia can be hot, humid and wet. Whether you’re moving interstate or internationally, keeping your pets safe is a priority. When you need to organise pet transport Australia based relocations can be less challenging for your pooches if you use our valuable tips.
Let’s make sure your pets are comfortable while relocating to a new home under hot, humid or wet conditions.
5 Tips to Keep Your Pets Safe When Doing a Summer Home Relocation
1. Check Airlines’ Summer Restrictions for Pet Travel
Many airlines limit pet travel during the summer months to prevent problems arising because of the heat. Airlines’ summer restrictions may include a complete ban on pet travel during certain periods or reduced travelling time. Also, airlines may restrict certain breeds from travelling.
Airlines often check out the weather in Australia from the previous year to decide when to implement summer embargoes for pet travel. Avoid the possibility of having to leave your dog at a kennel until the winter comes round. If you’re planning to take your animals with you on an airline, do your research well in advance to make sure they can travel at the same time as you.
2. Consider Road Transportation for Stress-Free Pet Travel
If you’re moving interstate, consider road transportation for stress-free pet travel during summer. Driving with your pets gives you more control over the times they’ll travel and you can personally ensure they’re comfortable and adequately hydrated. Your pet will feel more secure travelling with you in the same vehicle as well.
When driving long distances with your pets during summer, you’ll need to plan and prepare them for the trip. Road travel with your animals should include:
- Plenty of bathroom stops
- Adequate drinking water en route
- Air conditioning that’s in good working order
Avoiding breakdowns is an absolute must! You don’t want to be stuck next to the road with a frantic canine! Before embarking on a long journey with your pets, do a full vehicle inspection to ensure no repairs need to be done.
Lastly, keep your pet’s crate in the shadiest part of the car and drape it with a light-coloured sheet if necessary to block out the sun.
3. Pick the Right Pet Travel Crate
Whether your pet travels by air or road, picking the right travel crate determines much of the success of the venture. Ensuring your pet gets fresh air and can move safely while in their crate is important. So, ventilation is a number one priority as is getting the right size so your pet is comfortable throughout the journey. Check that the dimensions are acceptable for air travel and that the crate will fit your vehicle if you’re going by road.
Purchasing your pet’s travel crate well in advance ensures you can source the best type for your animal. Also, familiarising your pet to their travel crate well before moving day helps to keep them calm once the journey starts.
4. Book a Grooming Session Before the Move
Keeping up with your pets’ grooming schedule is important, especially if they have long hair. Schedule a grooming session a few days before relocation so your pet’s hair is trimmed neatly before relocating. However, avoid going for a complete shave as your dog’s hair acts as a cooling and protection system during the hot months.
Trimming your pet’s nails prevents nasty scratches when dealing with an agitated dog on the day of the move. In addition, trimmed nails reduce the risk of injury should your dog hook them on the travel crate accidentally.
5. Provide Drinking Water Before and During the Trip
Keeping your pets well hydrated well before the trip helps to prevent them from dehydrating while travelling in hot conditions. Providing fresh water just before travelling ensures your pets don’t get too thirsty at the outset.
Attach a bowl securely to the travel crate so your pet has access to drinking water throughout the trip. This will keep them well-hydrated even when temperatures are soaring. It’s equally important to give them fresh water at the final destination.
Final Thoughts
Relocating with pets during the hotter months takes extra planning and preparation, well in advance. Focusing on keeping your pet calm and healthy is vital, especially as they’ll pick up on your anxiety related to the upcoming move. It’s best to keep to your usual routine of playing and walking the dog, so they stay relaxed and comfortable in the days leading up to the big change.
However, if the thought of handling your pets while relocating during summer seems overwhelming, consider interstate pet transport handled by professionals. Reputable pet transportation companies are equipped to manage air and road travel in the best way possible. Knowing that your four-legged friends are in safe hands allows you to relax, ensuring a better experience for everyone!