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So you found the perfect home, or you’re taking a trip with your pet. How do you make the move or travel as smooth as possible for them? We’ve put together some tips and considerations to help you keep your pet safe, comfortable, and healthy during the experience.
Because so much goes into transporting your pet, it’s a good idea to plan everything out ahead of time. Rules and requirements differ depending on the type of travel you’re taking as well as how long you’ll be there — temporarily or permanently. Keep these items in mind when planning your travel or move.
Most states, counties, and countries have different laws and regulations regarding licensing pets. Airlines and other forms of public transportation typically have rules and restrictions for pet travel — such as updated vaccinations, health certificates, and entry requirements. Be sure to check the specific rules for your destination.1
To help make this process easier, MetLife Pet’s Preventive Care can provide reimbursements for vaccinations and health certificates up to your selected benefit limits.
Depending on the laws and requirements that apply to your travel, ensure you have all necessary paperwork ahead of time. This could include pet identification (ID), contact and medical information, updated vet records, and health certificates.1 Identification and contact info can be especially important if your pet is traveling in a carrier or crate, but not next to you.
Before the big move or trip, update your pet’s ID tags and/or microchip with your current contact information so you can be reached if they escape or get lost. If your pet isn’t microchipped yet, it can be a good idea to bring them to the vet for this quick procedure.1 Our optional Preventive Care plan has coverage for microchipping costs up to your benefit limit.
Have food, water, and poop bags on hand and easily accessible to ensure a smooth ride. A leash or harness and any pet medications should also be readily available. Treats and your pet’s favorite toys can help your companion feel comfortable. You may also want to grab your pet first aid kit, or make one if you don’t already have one.
If you’re moving or taking a trip across the country and decide to drive, these tips can be helpful:
By planning ahead, you might learn about potential complications so you can avoid them on the road.
Not all pets do well traveling in airplanes. Depending on their size or pet certifications, they may be able to ride with you in the cabin, or they may have to be in a crate in the cargo hold. Crates, pet health and age, and current weather must meet specific requirements to fly — which can usually be found on the airline’s website.1
Talk with your vet to see if it’s safe for your pet to fly, as well as any solutions for anxiety they may experience. Keep in mind short-nosed dog and cat breeds may have more breathing and overheating issues when flying than breeds with longer snouts.1
While traveling by car can be a lot easier to do with pets, there are still safety precautions you can take for a smooth trip. It’s advised that pets be properly restrained for their size and temperament. This could include crates, carriers, or pet seatbelt attachments. For dogs, sticking their head out of the window can feel great, but the risk of falling out of a moving car or getting injured by flying debris could outweigh the fun.1
If your pet has motion sickness or anxiety, chat with your vet for solutions to help them feel more comfortable. Frequent stops can help them to relieve themselves, expend pent-up energy, or stretch their legs. MetLife Pet’s dog and cat insurance provides coverage for prescribed medications, like those for anxiety.
If you’re relocating or moving with a pet — versus just taking a trip — there are a few additional considerations to help set you and your pet up for success.
Establishing your pet’s care in your new location before you get there could make it easier to keep them healthy and happy after a move. Consider:
MetLife Pet Insurance plans can be used at any licensed vet across the country. So you can worry less about unexpected vet costs when traveling or moving with your beloved companions.
Moving day can be stressful for everyone. Provide some ease for pets by bringing them to a daycare facility or having a pet sitter or loved one take them for the day. When you pick them up, all of their favorite things will already be waiting for them — creating a more seamless transition.
New surroundings could be overwhelming for pets. At first, you might want to have all of their things set up in a specific area of the home they can call their own to help them feel safe. Then gradually show them new areas.2
Even if you thought you were done with housebreaking years ago, the stress of the move might trigger a few accidents in your new home. Just be consistent with their routine, use positive reinforcement, and watch for signs of stress or behavior changes while they adjust.3
Pets often get into things they shouldn't when exploring a new home. Take some time to make your space as free from potential pet hazards as possible.2
If your pet gets sick or injured, having them already enrolled in a MetLife Pet policy could prove beneficial. With all of the logistics and costs of moving, being able to confidently say yes to vet care can make a hectic time feel a little easier. And with our 0-day waiting period on accidents and Preventive Care benefits, you could sign up for a plan today and have virtually instant coverage.
Whether you’re taking a trip, relocating across the country, or moving to a new neighborhood, MetLife Pet Insurance can be used at any licensed vet in the United States — including emergency and specialty vets. Time spent with your pet is precious, and you both deserve to focus on enjoying life to the fullest.
With reimbursement options up to 90% and no breed or age restrictions, plan ahead for a lifetime of care by enrolling your fur family now.4 So even in the moments you don’t expect, you’ve got MetLife Pet. Start with a free, personalized quote.
