Riding in Cars with … Pets

Written by Lauren McKenna | March 26, 2021

Moving your pets is no small feat. In this two-part blog series, we discuss the various things to consider when relocating your animals. In part two of the series, we examine the most common way to move a pet when a pet moving company isn’t an option.

According to the Aires Consulting team, U.S. domestic pet relocation is offered roughly 25% of the time and is typically covered under a miscellaneous allowance. Of the companies that offer pet transportation assistance, benefits are capped at around $250 per pet. As we mentioned in our first post, pet relocation is sometimes a cost-prohibitive benefit, even if it is worth every penny. So, what do you do you need to drive your pet?

Maybe your company will also reimburse your mileage if you drive to destination, and you are looking to save your miscellaneous allowance funds for crating your fancy road bicycle. In this case, driving you and your pets might be the best option all around. Some pets love the car and have “pawsitive” associations with it, while others become distressed and anxious as soon as the word “car” is uttered.

According to the American Kennel Club and other sources, here are some tips to make this process go a little smoother:

Teach your dog/cat to enjoy car rides. Start slow (think around the block) and reinforce positively with treats or your pet’s main motivator.
Safety first: secure your pet in the car. You wouldn’t ride without your seatbelt (we hope), so protect your pets too.
Similarly, some cats are content in their carriers, but others may need convincing. The VCA’s advice is simple: “Teach your cat that her carrier is a great everyday place to hang out.”
To prevent motion sickness for both cats and dogs, limit food and water intake, go for a quick walk or play session about 20 minutes before, keep the temperature cool, and consult your vet about motion sickness medication or other options to manage the stress of travel.
Take breaks for dogs. Many rest stops offer pet relief areas for you and your pet to stretch your legs. Exercise safety in these areas.
For very long journeys, consider a stop-over at a pet-friendly hotel.
For non-feline or canine companions, there are resources to discuss travel cages, water and food, and how to make your beloved friend more comfortable during the journey.
For all pets, keep vet records handy. While we hope to never need these while making a long car trip, it is always good to be prepared as you travel through areas you aren’t familiar with.

As always, it’s a good idea to talk to your vet about your pet to identify if any existing conditions that need to be addressed when moving. Moving is a stressful time for people and our furry friends can read that stress and internalize it. One-size does not fit all for our pets even in the comforts of your own car, so keep this in mind when planning your trip.

If you are considering pet relocation in your future programs or for your own pets, please reach out to your Aires representative for expert guidance.

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