Ways to Transport Pets to Another State

Air Travel

• Air travel is a fast way to transport a pet long distances. Small pets may be allowed in the airplane cabin, provided they travel in a carrier that will fit under the seat in front of you. Some airlines limit the number of animals in the cabin on any flight, some restrict all pets to the cargo hold and some refuse to transport pets at all. So call ahead to find out your airline's policy on pet travel. Your pet will need his own reservation, and you are required to supply an approved carrier. If you are traveling on the same flight as your pet, your pet may be treated as baggage. If you won't be on the flight, your pet may be classified as cargo. The fees for these two services will vary, but in both cases, your pet will travel in a pressurized cargo hold.

Car Travel

• If you are driving with your pet to another state, make sure your pet has a comfortable, secure place to ride in the car. A carrier on a seat or in the cargo hatch of an SUV or station wagon will protect both you and your pet. Smaller dogs do well with special pet seat belts. Cats do best in carriers that restrict them from moving about the car and interfering with the driver. Securing your pet also prevents him from getting loose at a rest stop.

  Plan for regular rest stops to walk your pet. Pack water dishes and a bottle of water to provide them water at each stop. Feed your pet when you stop for the night. Some pets experience motion sickness, so it's not a good idea to feed them while you're driving.

  Never leave your pet unattended in the car during warm weather while you go inside a restaurant to eat. The temperature inside a parked car in mild weather can rise to dangerous levels.

Transport Companies

• If you're unable to accompany your pet on a cross-country trip, and you don't want to fly your pet, you can hire a pet transport company to take your pet by van. This is a good option for anyone with a number of pets. Pets travel in a carrier in the van, with regular stops for walks and water.

Preparation

• Before you travel, take your pet to the veterinarian and make sure he's up to date on all vaccinations. Obtain a health certificate from your vet, and get any refills of your pet's medication. Contact the Agriculture Department in the state where you are going and ask about requirements for bringing an animal there. Some states require inspection of animals entering the state or presentation of a health certificate to inspectors at the state border.

  Equip your pet with a collar with identification tags with your cell phone number and the address in the new state. Take a recent photograph of your pet. If your pet becomes lost, this photograph may help you locate him quicker.