Everyone finds moving stressful, but it becomes even more so when pets are part of the move. 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
Several challenges arise for pets due to summer heat, especially in the middle of a move. Humans deal with heat and humidity too, yet these conditions bring added difficulties for pets. Pets experience heat in a fundamentally different way than humans do. Since dogs and other animals don’t sweat, they can’t regulate their body temperature the way people can. As a result, they face a higher risk of overheating, dehydration, and even life-threatening heatstroke.
Pets also struggle with the disruption a move brings, often feeling scared or anxious when their usual routines are thrown off or they’re in unfamiliar places. Elevated anxiety can trigger destructive or self-harming behaviors, causing distress for pets and owners alike.
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. It also helps to plan on keeping pets in a cooled, closed-off room with little foot traffic throughout most of the move. By avoiding peak heat hours and keeping pets in air-conditioned areas of the home or apartment, you can make the move safer and more pleasant for all involved.
Pack a Pet Essentials Bag
Since a move throws off a pet’s routine, it helps to keep important items nearby throughout the day. A dedicated “pet essentials” bag or box that travels alongside your pet can help ensure their needs are met and keep their routine feeling as normal as possible. Some essentials to pack are:
- Pet food and snacks
- Travel bowls and water
- Necessary medications
- Their leash or harness
- Cleanup bags
- Toys or chew items they love
- Blankets, beds, or other comfort items
Having every pet supply within reach on moving day can help take some of the stress off you and your pet.
Keep Pets Hydrated Throughout the Move
During a summer move, dehydration ranks among the most significant risks for pets. To help your pets stay hydrated, offer plenty of fresh water throughout the day, pause often for water breaks, and pack extra water if you’re moving long distance. Something as basic as a water jug and bowl in the vehicle, or extra water bottles packed in a cooler, can get the job done.
The stress of moving may leave some pets reluctant to drink water, and a bit of hesitation can be normal. But watch them carefully for signs of heat stress, including excessive panting, lethargy, difficulty walking, vomiting, and other signs of illness. If any symptoms seem serious or don’t go away after the move, take your pet to the veterinarian right away.
Travel Safely in Hot Weather
It can be challenging to keep your pet safe and comfortable during a summer move, particularly if extended travel is involved. With a bit of planning, though, you can reduce stress and keep them 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. For pets that can’t use a crate, or if you’re especially worried, consider a day with a pet sitter or boarding facility instead. That way, your pet stays safe and secure, and you can concentrate on the move itself.
When your pet is along for the ride during your move, keep the dangers of hot vehicle interiors in mind. A parked vehicle should never be left with a pet inside alone. Temperatures inside a car can quickly soar past 100 degrees Fahrenheit, even on relatively mild days, putting any pet in serious danger. Keep the air conditioning running and limit their time in the car to actual travel to keep them safe and comfortable. For extended trips, make sure to plan rest stops and bring along plenty of water. Putting their safety first is essential if you want moving day to go well.
Making Pets Feel Right at Home
A summer move can be safe and comfortable for pets, as long as you have the right knowledge and plan ahead.
Ready to find a pet-friendly rental home? In your area, Real Property Management Results offers quality rental properties built to help residents and their pets feel truly 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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