Managing a PCS with Pets: A Military Family’s Relocation Checklist

For families facing Permanent Change of Station orders, managing a military move can be stressful. There are many things you need to plan for when you’re moving to another state or even to another country. The process is usually even more complicated when you’re moving with pets.

Just as in many projects in life, creating a checklist is a helpful resource. When you have each step outlined in writing, you’re less likely to forget something important. But what should be on your checklist for moving with a pet? This step-by-step guide for your military move is the perfect resource for creating a checklist.

Ground Transportation Is the Most Humane Method

Before we get started discussing the checklist, it’s important to know which method of transport you’ll use. The bottom line is that ground transportation is both the most humane way to transport a pet and the most reliable. You wouldn’t send your children in the cargo area of the plane — don’t do this to your pets!

Of course, if you’re moving internationally, air travel may be the only option. If you have any option, you should always choose ground transportation. Other reasons to use ground transportation over flying a pet.

1. There is a prohibition on pets other than cats and dogs, whereas ground transport companies will allow nearly all pets.
2. Flying can stress your pet and create an anxiety overload that can be dangerous, especially if they’re in the cargo hold.
3. Flying can be unreliable because of weather and other factors. Airline heat embargos are common in the summer can lead to travel disruptions.
4. Ground travel logistics are easier and can offer door-to-door delivery, which is impossible with air travel.
5. There is limited space on flights for pets, so you have to plan well in advance, which may not be possible if your PCS orders require a quick move.

Ground Pet Transportation Checklist

1. Obtain your pet’s health certificates from a USDA-registered veterinarian.
2. Gather all necessary paperwork that pet transportation services and/or government officials require.
3. Get all required vaccines for your pets at least 21 days before travel.
4. Consider microchipping your pet and purchasing sturdy name tags. These measures can be invaluable in case your pet escapes while in transit.
5. Purchase a carrier: either hard-sided or soft-sided carrier.
6. Acclimate your pet to the carrier.
7. Make all necessary plans with the ground transportation service for drop off and pick up. Don’t forget to discuss details of the trip, like bathroom break frequency and medications.

Air Pet Transportation Checklist

1. Obtain health certificates.
2. Gather all necessary paperwork that pet transportation services and/or government officials require.
3. If you’re moving to another country, check on quarantine requirements. If necessary, arrange for quarantine once your pet arrives.
4. Obtain necessary vaccines at least 21 days before travel.
5. Consider microchipping your pet and purchasing sturdy name tags.
6. Purchase your carrier: either hard-sided or soft-sided carrier. Hard-sided is required for cargo travel, while a soft-sided carrier is the better option for in-cabin flight.
7. Acclimate your pet to the carrier.
8. Make all necessary plans with the airline to ensure everything is great.

Ways to Ease Your Pet’s Anxiety

In order for your pet to be less stressed or anxious during the transport process and even the moving process, you should maintain the routines your pet is used to. You should also try these simple tips.

• Provide safe spaces next to familiar items when you are in the new environment.
• Bring favorite toys or blankets along on the trip.
• Exercise with your pet because that will create calmness and reduce stress.

CitizenShipper cares about your pet as if they were our own and that’s why it’s the safest and most humane way to transport a pet. It also cares about ensuring that you get your money back for your pet transport. Here is the reimbursement, just click on the link, fill out the form, and follow the instructions.