Moving takes a toll on everyone’s nerves, especially when you’re bringing pets along for the ride. High heat and humidity in summer can put pets at greater risk of dehydration, overheating, and anxiety, creating unique challenges during a move. By preparing early and knowing what to expect, you can help keep your pets safe and comfortable throughout the move. 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
During a move, summer temperatures can present pets with several distinct challenges. Heat and humidity affect people too, but these conditions create extra challenges for pets. Pets and humans just respond to heat differently. Since dogs and other animals don’t sweat, they can’t regulate their body temperature the way people can. Because of this, pets are at increased risk of overheating, dehydration, and heatstroke, which can be life-threatening.
A move’s disruption takes a toll on pets, who may become anxious or fearful when routines change or surroundings feel unfamiliar. Severe anxiety can cause pets to engage in destructive or self-harming behaviors, distressing for everyone involved.
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. For that reason, scheduling your move during the cooler parts of the day—early morning or late evening—is one of the smartest strategies. Consider keeping pets in a quiet, air-conditioned room that sees little foot traffic for the bulk of the move—another smart approach. Making the move safer and more comfortable often comes down to avoiding the hottest hours and keeping pets in cool parts of the home or apartment.
Pack a Pet Essentials Bag
Because your pet’s routine gets disrupted during a move, having important items close at hand throughout the day is essential. Assembling a “pet essentials” bag or box that goes wherever your pet goes can help ensure their needs are covered and their routine stays as normal as possible. Some essentials to pack are:
- Food and their favorite treats
- Portable water and food bowls
- Prescription medications
- Leash and/or harness
- Bags for waste cleanup
- Beloved toys or things to chew on
- Blankets, beds, or other comfort items
With all the necessary pet supplies close at hand on moving day, stress can be reduced for you and your pet alike.
Keep Pets Hydrated Throughout the Move
Dehydration stands out as one of the top risks pets face when moving in summer. Ensure your pets stay hydrated throughout the day by keeping fresh water accessible, taking regular water breaks, and packing extra water for long-distance travel. 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.
It’s not unusual for some pets to be reluctant to drink water because of moving stress. But watch them carefully for signs of heat stress, including excessive panting, lethargy, difficulty walking, vomiting, and other signs of illness. When symptoms look severe or continue past the move, it’s time to bring your pet to the vet without delay.
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. Even so, a little preparation can help lower stress levels and keep your pet safe.
Using a crate or carrier, if your pet can manage it, helps keep them secure and prevents escapes throughout moving day. 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. Doing so keeps your pet protected and secure while letting you focus on getting the move done.
If your pet will be traveling with you during the move, it’s important to stay mindful of how dangerous hot vehicle temperatures can be. A pet should never be left alone inside a parked car. Temperatures inside a car can quickly soar past 100 degrees Fahrenheit, even on relatively mild days, putting any pet in serious danger. Keeping them safe and comfortable means running the AC and limiting car time strictly to travel periods. Longer journeys call for planned rest stops and a good supply of water. Their safety should be the top priority for a smooth, successful moving day.
Making Pets Feel Right at Home
Pets can stay safe and comfortable during a summer move when you’re equipped with the right knowledge and preparation.
In search of a pet-friendly rental home? Real Property Management Nampa offers quality rentals in your area, designed with residents and their pets in mind so everyone feels right 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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