From excitement to stress, so many things surround moving to a new home. Having a pet just adds that extra dimension to things. Whether it is a great black Lab, a curious cat, or a cuddly bunny, one thing is that your pet is clueless as to what the moving is all about, and they are looking up to you for comfort and security.
Changing places with your pets in India poses its own challenges, stretching from issues related to climate change and laws for transportation to pet travel anxiety and documentation. However, a pacified and stress-free pet would send you moved with a happy memory.
Before the Move: Preparing Your Pet (and Yourself)
Say you are moving from Delhi to Bangalore with your 4-year-old Beagle. The first thing to go onto your moving checklist is a visit to the vet. A thorough health examination should be performed, including checking that all vaccinations are up to date, and obtaining a health certificate, which is essential for air or train travel and also to give you peace of mind.
If your pet has not been wearing an ID tag or is not microchipped, now is the time. Sudden changes during a move can confuse a pet; having an ID tag with your name and new phone number is a very simple and important precaution to take.
Keep in mind that the earlier your pet experiences the travel crate, the better: investigate it, nap in it, or absorb whatever smells are inside. This one small thing will do a great deal in alleviating their nervous energy on moving day.
Choosing the Right Transport Mode in India
Numerous modes of transport may be envisaged in India, some of which are not inherently pet-friendly.
If you drive, it will be comfortable for pets, especially dogs. Stop frequently, keep the car window open just an inch or two to allow some fresh air, and carry their favorite toys, treats, and a lot of water.
Indian Railways does allow the carriage of pets on trains, but under certain rules. Dogs are allowed to travel in first-class AC compartments (booking a whole coupe) and brake vans, although the latter can be taxing and should be avoided for house pets.
When it comes to air travel, domestic carriers like Air India and Vistara allow pets either in the cabin or in the cargo, depending on size and breed. And each airline will have different requirements for crates, weight limits, etcetera. Always inquire about such details at least 2 weeks ahead, book your tickets quite early, and avoid layovers.
Important: Never sedate the pet yourself, at least not without consulting with your vet–particularly before flying–as the sedatives can lower blood pressure and interfere with altitude adjustability.
Keeping Pets Calm During the Journey
Moving is disorienting for pets; abrupt movements, scents, and very loud sounds are involved. Now, your task is to give them a feeling of familiarity.
Take with you their blanket, their favorite toy, and some treats. Talk to them. Keep calm; they will feed off your energy. If your pet tends to get more anxious, check with your vet about any natural calming remedies or pheromone sprays made for travel.
One note, though, about not feeding them just before travel. A light meal 3-4 hours before departure is good. Always carry water for them and offer a few sips during stops or layovers.
And yes, accidents do happen, particularly when cats are nervous, or when it’s an older dog. So keep those wipes, extra pads, and a good sense of humor handy.
Setting Up Their New Space First
Upon arrival, there is no need to unpack immediately. Set up a nice, quiet corner for your pet with its bed, toys, food, and water bowls, and allow it to gradually discover the new surroundings, room by room. Keep feeding and walking times the same as they had in the old home; it gives them a feeling of restoration of control and stability.
Avoid free wandering of cats and smaller pets; such freedom is permitted only when they have completely settled in. Very often, the pets may hide under furniture or inside boxes on the first day or two; they will come out when they feel comfortable enough.
Should You Use Pet Relocation Services in India?
If your move happens to be far distances or is international, or if your animal has special needs, you might want to consider employing a professional pet relocation company. Carry My Pet, Petfly, and Furry Flyers make arrangements for documents, set up crates for your pet, book the travel, and even pick up the pets from your home or deliver them there.
They also deal with import/export regulations, customs clearance, and quarantine (in case of international moves). Be sure to check the company’s experience, ask for references, and ascertain that it is IATA-certified.
A Safe Journey Is a Shared Journey
Perhaps a little change in their environment may not be understood by your pet, but absence of your presence can be mourned by it. A patient heal process, lathed with suitable routine and preparation, will aid the animal in feeling safe and cherished, even in foreign settings.
Consider this when switching in India: you do not move boxes, hearts move with them. So much love has to be showered on those little paws along the way.
