A PCS move is always a mix of expectation, fun, and stress. Add in the family pets, and it can be an experience you never want to repeat, ever. To reduce the stress and add to the fun, here are a few tips to safely move your pets and yourself to your next duty station.
🚰 Water on the Go
Forget their bulky bowls! You don’t need their regular bowl in the car, especially if you have multiple pets. A collapsible bowl is perfect, which you can also win 2 of in our monthly $500 sweepstakes.
🍖 Food & Snacks
Hungry pets = cranky road trip companions. Pack your pet’s favorite food and extra snacks. If it is a two-day trip, plan to have three or four days each for both on hand. If you can grab travel-friendly portions like Merrick Lil’ Plates, even better. No large Purina Pro Plan bag spills in the backseat, but you can grab a bag once at your new duty station!
🚗 Crate Training 101
If you do not have a travel crate, buy one as soon as possible. Your pet must become familiar with it before being secured inside for an entire day. If you have the time, take your pets out for a few practice runs. Start with just a few minutes and work up to longer times.
🌞 Keep It Cool
This is a must for pets, if your pet’s in a crate, direct sunlight can turn it into an oven. Movable shades are a game changer, especially when driving North or South and the blinding sunrise or sunset decides to target your side window trying to fry you and your pets.
⚡ Storm Anxiety Solutions
Some pets love to travel….others not so much - they may act like they’re being abducted by aliens. Thunder Snug vests are fantastic for calming dogs, and there are designs for cats, but a calming gel wiped onto your cat’s paws works quite well. Having a blanket or towel they sleep or nest on is also helpful.
👩⚕️ Vet Check Before Takeoff
Make sure you get your pets checked out before moving. There shouldn’t be any unexpected surprises. And if your pet gets carsick, your vet can recommend medication to keep them (and your car) mess-free.
🚏 Rest Stops = Sanity Breaks
It’s good to get your pets out of the car after a few hours; it reduces everyone’s stress. Keep them close and leashed - too many people treat rest stops like an off-leash park, injuring other animals and, sometimes, people.
🏨 Overnight Stays
Make sure the hotel or motel you check into is pet-friendly when you make your reservation. Many establishments charge only a nominal pet fee, and guests with pets are less likely to complain if yours makes a little noise.
Here’s my final piece of advice: pack paper towels and pet stain remover/deodorizer with you. Trust me, even the best-behaved pets have accidents on long trips. With a little preparation, you and your pets can have a move that results in a pleasant journey for everyone.
Preparing for a PCS with pets? A little planning goes a long way! For more tips, exclusive pet perks, and a chance to win great prizes (including a $500 gift card!), join the PCS with Pets and check out Military Pet Club too today at www.militarypetclub.com. Because every military pet deserves a little extra love!
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