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2023 Study: The Strictest State Laws for Moving With Pets

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Key Findings:

  • Hawaii is the strictest state (Stringency Score 69.7 out of 100) for moving with animals, requiring both dogs and cats two rabies vaccinations and an antibody test, or to be placed in quarantine
  • New York (68.8) and Nebraska (68.7) are the next hardest states to move with dogs and cats
  • North Carolina (Stringency Score 13.8) is the most lenient state for incoming cats and dogs, followed by New Jersey (14.8) and Maine (25) 
  • Only one state – New Jersey – doesn’t require dogs to be vaccinated for rabies when moving to the state
  • California, Michigan, New Jersey, Iowa, and Tennessee have stricter rules for dogs than cats

Moving to a new state can be a stressful experience when you have a furry friend to take along. Relocating with a pet requires additional planning and preparation, as the majority of states require cats and dogs to have a valid health certificate and a current rabies vaccination, at the minimum.

Some states, like New York or Nebraska, impose additional requirements for health certificates and vaccinations. Others, such as Maine or New Jersey, allow cats and dogs to move in without any proof of health status or vaccination at all. It can get kind of confusing!

Read on to see which states are the strictest in terms of moving with a pet, see which are the most lenient, and find out whether it’s cats or dogs that face the most scrutiny when moving across state lines.

Hard To Get Into Hawaii: States With the Strictest Rules for Pet Imports

No other state has pet migration rules as stringent as Hawaii.

Having been a rabies-free state for over 100 years, and the only state with that status, it’s understandable that the local government is keen to protect it.

That’s probably why Hawaii is the only state that requires cats and dogs to have a double rabies vaccination, a rabies antibody test, a microchip for identification, and inspection upon arrival. 

If all the requirements aren’t met four months before arriving in Hawaii, the pet may not qualify for immediate release and be quarantined for five days, costing the owner $244 in fees.

 

“There is a cluster of states in the Northeast — namely New York, Connecticut, and Massachusetts — that have some of the strictest rules for certificates of veterinary inspection (CVI)…”

 

New York and Nebraska have the next strictest control measures for cats and dogs arriving from other states. Both states require animals to have a certificate of veterinary inspection (CVI) issued within 30 days of travel, listing a destination address and confirming no visible signs of infectious diseases.

In addition, the rabies vaccine is required for animals as young as three months and it must be administered at least 30 days prior to entering the state.

Other states where rules for bringing cats and dogs are relatively strict include West Virginia and Louisiana, where only 12-month (as opposed to 36-month) rabies vaccinations are recognized, and Connecticut, where the health certificate should state that the animal hadn’t been exposed to rabies for 100 days prior to entering the state.

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North Carolina and New Jersey Most Open to Pet Arrivals

As some states impose rigorous rules on cats and dogs moving in, others appear to be welcoming their new feline and canine residents with open arms.

North Carolina, for example, is the easiest state to move to with a cat or a dog. The state doesn’t require animals to have a certificate of veterinary inspection (CVI) when entering the state. And, more importantly, animals aged four months or older can enter the state without a rabies vaccine, provided that they receive one within a week of arrival. 

New Jersey is the second most lenient state with regard to pet imports. Here, An illustration of a blue cat and pink dog sitting together in a box. There is a stylized clipboard and vaccine syringe on either side of it. rabies vaccinations aren’t required for cats at all and are only “recommended” for dogs over seven months old. But most New Jersey townships require dogs to be licensed, which does require you to vaccinate your dog against rabies. In addition, dogs entering the state do need to have a CVI that’s no more than 30 days old.

The next states in our lenience ranking are Maine, Montana, and Utah, where the only requirement is a valid rabies vaccination.

Texas is another state where a CVI isn’t required for incoming cats or dogs, but at the same time, new feline and canine residents are to be vaccinated against rabies as soon as they are 12 weeks old.

North and South: Regional Differences in Rules for Moving with Pets

Projecting the rules set out by different states onto a map, a few curious patterns emerge. 

Looking at the overall stringency of rules, the states where it’s the highest are generally in the northern part of the country. Hawaii and Louisiana, of course, are notable exceptions. This is largely mirrored in how strict states are in their requirements for veterinary inspections of incoming cats and dogs. 

 

“It’s true that dogs have traditionally been associated with rabies, but they’re only the majority of cases in certain parts of the world. According to the CDC, there are many more rabid cats than dogs in the United States.”

 

There is a cluster of states in the Northeast — namely New York, Connecticut, and Massachusetts — that have some of the strictest rules for certificates of veterinary inspection (CVI) that every cat and dog coming to the state needs to have.

When it comes to regulations around the rabies vaccine, it’s the states in the South that generally have tighter rules. Texas, Louisiana, New Mexico, and Alabama stand out as some of the tightest requirements for rabies vaccination for cats and dogs entering these states.

Unequal Welcome: States with Varying Requirements for Cats and Dogs

More often than not, the rules for cats and dogs moving from one state to another are the same within a given state. And yet, seven states make moving in with one of America’s most beloved pet animals a lot easier than moving in with another one. And, you guessed it, it’s cats that have it easier.

This is most evident in the state of California, where dogs moving to the state need to be vaccinated against rabies and have a certificate of veterinary inspection (CVI), while cats are allowed to be brought to the state without adhering to these measures.

Michigan does require both cats and dogs to have a CVI, but only dogs need to be vaccinated against rabies before coming to the state, and this applies to dogs as young as 12 weeks of age.

Iowa and the aforementioned New Jersey are the two other states where the requirement to have your pet vaccinated against rabies only applies to dogs. Dogs may enter New Jersey without a rabies vaccine, but would need one to be licensed in most of the state’s municipalities.

 

“Hawaii is the strictest state (Stringency Score 69.7 out of 100) for moving with animals, requiring both dogs and cats require double rabies vaccinations and an antibody test, or be placed in quarantine.”

 

While it may seem like common sense, this double standard with regard to rabies vaccination for dogs and cats is somewhat dubious.

It’s true that dogs have traditionally been associated with rabies, but they’re only the majority of cases in certain parts of the world. According to the CDC, there are many more rabid cats than dogs in the United States.

Curious to see what rules each state sets out for bringing in cats and dogs? Check out our interactive table below.

Sources and Methodology
In order to rank all U.S. states and the District of Columbia on how stringent or lenient they are as regards the import of cats and dogs, rules for the importation of cats and dogs from other U.S. states or territories were gathered from the official government websites of each state.
The following factors were considered in determining how strict or relaxed the rules were in each state, with the weighted score assigned to each. The rules mostly revolved around the certificate of veterinary inspection (CVI) and rabies vaccination requirements:
  • Certificate of veterinary inspection (CVI) needed – 25 points
  • Within how many days of travel the CVI had to be issued – 10 points
  • Destination address in the state listed on CVI – 10 points
  • Explicit requirement of confirmation of disease-free status on CVI – 5 points
  • Rabies vaccine mandated before arrival – 25 points
  • Rabies vaccine types accepted (1-year or 3-year) – 5 points
  • Vaccinated at least X days before arrival  – 5 points
  • Vaccination age threshold – 5 points
  • Other vaccine requirements (e.g., quarantine, additional tests, fees) – 15 points
The longer in advance the animal had to be vaccinated or inspected to get a CVI, the more stringent the rules were deemed. The lower the age threshold for vaccination, the stricter the rules were deemed.
States with the highest number of points were deemed more stringent, and states with the lower number of points were deemed more lenient. For states where requirements differed for cats and dogs, an average score of two sets of requirements was taken.
For the complete list of sources, check our datasheet.

 

Illustrations by Chanelle Nibbelink

The Stuff That’s Illegal To Bring Into Illinois

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Illinois is an interesting place. It is home to the nation’s third largest city, yet almost 80% of it is farmland. Nicknamed the Land of Lincoln, Abraham Lincoln was not actually born there. At 1,235 feet above sea level, Charles Mound is the state’s highest natural point. But the top floor Skydeck of Chicago’s Willis Tower sits at 1,354 feet, making it the highest place to put your shoes in all of Illinois.

The laws of Illinois are no less intriguing. Whether it’s something as basic as beer or unusual as an authentic cane sword, Illinois makes it clear that they aren’t fooling around when it comes to what you can bring with you when you move in (although, we have yet to find a statute that makes it clear whether you can import your pet elephant).

We’ve done the legwork so you can get your questions answered, and roll with confidence into the Prairie State.

Alcohol

Both fun-filled road trips and the laborious task of moving can elicit thoughts of downing an ice-cold beer. But as you prepare to hit the road, think twice about packing those cans for your new place.

 

“…Illinois [is] contending with an ongoing pest problem, [and] does not allow firewood to be carried out of state, and strongly recommends burning firewood where it was found or purchased.”

 

According to the Illinois Administrative Code, Title 11, § 100.480 – Importation of Alcoholic Liquor (b): 

A person is permitted to import alcoholic liquor into this State for his or her personal and non-commercial use without first obtaining a license to import if:

  1. The total volume to be imported per year is less than one gallon; or
  2. You acquiesce to a mess of conditions and cumbersome paperwork that basically makes it too much of a pain to even bother. (We’re paraphrasing here, but it’s close enough.)

In short, leave your barrels of beer behind with your friends when you say goodbye.

an illustration of two six packs of green beer bottles. One has spilled, and the reflection on the alcohol's surface looks like a frowning face.Fun Fact: a 12-pack of beer will put you over the one-gallon limit. To enter Illinois legally, you’ll have to get rid of two of those cans. We DO NOT recommend drinking two beers before crossing into Illinois – or driving anywhere else for that matter.

Open containers prohibited

A note to anyone riding in your rental truck with you: According to Illinois law:

“No driver or passenger may transport, carry, possess, or have any alcoholic liquor within the passenger area of any motor vehicle upon a highway in this State except in the original container and with the seal unbroken”.

So not only do you have to ride under that one-gallon limit, but you have to make sure every bottle or can you’re taking with you hasn’t been opened at all.  

Animals and Pets

Dogs & cats

an illustration of a vet looking over various cats and dogs to give them a CVI, which is necessary for them to enter Illinois legally

Bring Fido and your feline along, but get them checked out at home first. You’ll need some paperwork from a vet that has the necessary information about your pets to get them across state lines.   

As stated on the Illinois Department of Agriculture website, the requirements for all dogs and cats are: 

  1. Every pet must have a Certificate of Veterinary Inspection (CVI) issued within 30 days of entry showing the age, sex, breed, and description of each animal, and also provide a complete destination name and address within Illinois.  
  2. The animals being transported can’t be sick during the trip, or originate from an area under rabies quarantine. 
  3. All dogs and cats have to be at least 16 weeks old.
  4. They must be vaccinated against rabies, and the date of vaccination and manufacturer information needs to be included on the CVI.

Livestock

The animals that fall under this umbrella are typically cows, horses, goats, llamas, alpacas, and pigs. Unless you’re moving a herd of livestock into Illinois for slaughter or grazing purposes, these animals need to be accompanied by a CVI and something called an entry permit.

 

“…[T]here is a 60-day grace period for obtaining your Firearm Owner Identification Card (FOID), required for all gun-owning Illinois residents. This begins when you receive your Illinois driver’s license or Illinois State identification card…”

 

Entry permits typically list the number of animals being moved, the name and address of a consignor, and the name and Illinois address of the consignee. Livestock also has a longer list of possible illnesses and diseases they need to be checked for compared to pets. You can find a complete list of the requirements for various livestock, as well as the form for entry permits, on the Illinois Department of Agriculture website.

“Dangerous animals” & primates

Illinois law expressly states that you, unfortunately, must leave your leopard behind. In addition, individuals in or entering Illinois may not have in their possession any “dangerous animals”, which basically means any wild cats, bears, hyenas, wolves, or coyotes. Primates are illegal to possess as well.

Of course, there are many more species of animal that will more than raise a few eyebrows at the border. Among those listed here are European rabbits, Java sparrows, and walking catfish. Not listed are pandas, porcupines, and baby rhinos, so you’ll need to practice your own good judgment there.

Here’s a fairly comprehensive list of animals that are illegal to own (scroll down to Illinois).

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Fish & aquatic life

Bringing your fish tank to Illinois? The list of approved aquatic species is long, including all sorts of snails, shellfish, and aquatic plants. Just be sure to know the names of your watery pets — no, not “Swimmy,” but the formal and/or scientific names.

Not surprisingly, goldfish are listed. Surprisingly, angelfish are not. While we suspect you and your heavenly swimmer will be waved through border control, if you have any questions, concerns, or doubts, all the contact numbers you could need are right here.

Guns, Weapons, and Fireworks

What types of guns are legal

In January 2023, the State of Illinois passed a new and comprehensive guns and firearms law, making the Land of Lincoln the 9th state to ban assault weapons, in addition to making the sale and distribution of many automatic and semi-automatic firearms and accessories illegal.

an illustration of a stylized water gun with an evidence marker next to it Shaw Media offers this rundown of all the firearms and gun parts now banned in Illinois. Handguns, however, are legal to possess and, under certain conditions and following state laws, legal to transport from out of state.

Safe firearm transportation

Basically, if you have a permit from your state of origin, you can bring your gun into Illinois provided it is being transported legally. That means your gun and ammo are separate, locked, and out of reach. For all the details you may need, check out this brochure regarding the safe and legal transport of guns into and throughout Illinois.

Firearm permits

If you are moving to Illinois with your gun, know that there is a 60-day grace period for obtaining your Firearm Owner Identification Card (FOID), required for all gun-owning Illinois residents. This begins when you receive your Illinois driver’s license or Illinois State identification card, which you must obtain within 90 days of taking up residence in the state.

For information on obtaining your FOID card, check the Illinois State Police Firearm Services Bureau (ISPFSB) website. Additional information on concealed carry and other firearms laws can be found here.

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Knives & other weapons

All automatic blades (i.e., switchblades), folding blades (i.e., pocket knives), and fixed-blade knives with a blade longer than three inches are all illegal to own or carry, and so are ballistic knives, throwing stars, and brass/metal knuckles. Stun guns and taser guns and, potentially, broken bottles, are all illegal as well. 

Fireworks

In many states surrounding Illinois, fireworks are plentiful and plenty legal. However, inside Illinois, almost every flavor of firework is illegal, even when bought in one of those neighboring states. A few types of non-exploding pyrotechnic fun are legal: sparklers and snake pellets to name two. But most everything else is a no-no, including on the Fourth of July.

Plants and Produce

Illinois boasts over 72,000 farms operating over 26 million acres of farmland. The state is the country’s #1 producer of pumpkins, and is 3rd in the nation in farmer’s markets. So it makes sense they’d be protective of their agricultural health.

What makes adhering to laws on prohibited plants and produce difficult is the lack of any hard and specific list of what’s actually prohibited. The state government simply says that “if there’s a problem anywhere, the state can prohibit the importation into the state of any plant material from that area.”

 

“A 12-pack of beer will put you over the one-gallon limit. To enter Illinois legally, you’ll have to get rid of two of those cans.”

 

Barring any sort of known or special issue with any particular plant, there seem to be few restrictions on transporting house plants and fruits and vegetables into Illinois. If you have any specific questions contact the Illinois Department of Agriculture directly.

Firewood

Interestingly, firewood is one item that has long been restricted throughout Illinois. Specifically, the importation of untreated firewood is prohibited, and any firewood one would endeavor to bring into Illinois must have that wood certified and labeled in advance. So really, why bother? Illinois has firewood.

As an aside, Illinois itself is contending with an ongoing pest problem, does not allow firewood to be carried out of state, and strongly recommends burning firewood where it was found or purchased.

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Marijuana

Illinois legalized the recreational use of marijuana in 2020, with plenty of regulations to go along with it. Here’s a rundown of the laws and penalties related to marijuana and other substances, along with the serious concept of “intent to deliver”.

But this only applies once you are in the state. Marijuana remains illegal under federal law. This means you can get in a lot of hot water if you transport marijuana across state lines. So leave your bud behind when you say goodbye and hit the road for your new home in Illinois.

Outside of big-city Chicago, in between all those farmer’s markets out among the vast Illinois farmlands, the Illinois Department of Natural Resources maintains almost 150 State Parks offering an array of recreational pursuits throughout the four seasons. Make sure you can get out and start enjoying it all as soon as possible by knowing ahead of time what you can and cannot bring into the state and cruise hassle-free across the state lines into your new home.

Illustrations by Rachel Tunstall

The Stuff That’s Illegal To Bring Into California

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From stunning national parks and perfect sandy beaches to those big-screen Hollywood dreams and beyond, it’s no wonder close to 40 million people like to call California home. But The Golden State is also an economic powerhouse, with a GDP larger than all but a handful of the world’s countries, and a fair chunk of that GDP comes from agriculture. 

Protecting all the fun and farmland begins right at the California border, with officers at sixteen different checkpoint stations enforcing the rules and prohibitions that keep the Golden State running.

To help you cruise through without incident and get to your new home as smoothly and quickly as possible, we’re laying out all the major rules right here about what you can and can’t bring with you.

Pets, livestock, and other animals

animals

 

Here’s some good news: bringing common household pets into California is not a problem at all! Cat owners in particular have it easy: the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) doesn’t require any documentation for domestic felines. On the other hand, dogs require proof of rabies vaccination, but nothing else.

The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (DFW) offers an impressive list of animals that can not be imported into the state. Interestingly, there seem to be no restrictions on the American bison.

 

“One large category of prohibited items might surprise you, and that’s all citrus plants. California is particularly serious about barring all of it, including loose pieces of citrus fruit, from being brought into the state.”

 

The DFW also offers information on restricted species. If you aren’t sure where your iguana stands, check directly with the authorities in your specific region. 

And for all you farmers and ranchers out there, the California Department of Food and Agriculture has information on importing livestock and poultry.

Licensing your dog or cat in California once you’ve moved in is mandated and enforced locally. Check with your city or county for your specific required actions – preferably before you arrive.

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Alcohol, marijuana, and other cannabis products

As long as you are 21 or older you are permitted to bring alcoholic beverages into California provided it is for personal or household use. Transporting alcohol into the state for commercial or business purposes requires a license from the Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC).

Persons 21 and older are also legally permitted to possess and use marijuana within the limits of state and (beware) local laws.

 

“[The] AG requires that you…do one of three things within sixty days of moving to California: register your firearm, sell it to a licensed dealer, or sell it to the police or sheriff’s department.”

 

But, there’s a caveat when it comes to transportation of it. Under current federal law, it is illegal to transport marijuana or any cannabis products (like edibles) across state lines. So as you peruse California’s laws regarding using and growing and keeping marijuana in your car, understand that this only applies once you are in-state. 

In short, feel free to bring your Budwiser along (and make sure you pack and move it correctly), but leave your bud behind.

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Open Container Laws

Article 2 Section 23223(a) of California’s State Vehicle Code states it is illegal for any person operating a motor vehicle on California’s highways or public roads to have in their possession “any bottle, can, or other receptacle, containing any alcoholic beverage that has been opened, or a seal broken, or the contents of which have been partially removed.” The same goes for any passenger, as stated in 23223(b).

Section 23225 states that the above may not be kept in a vehicle unless it is in the trunk, or out of reach if there is no trunk, or as a last resort inside a locked container.

The same rules apply to cannabis, in a container or otherwise, as stated in Section 23222.

All the detailed (and strangely repetitive) laws can be found right here, starting with the “no drinking or smoking weed by any driver or passenger” law of Section 23220.

 

Firearms and weapons

california illegal

Make of it what you will, but California is tougher on huckleberries than they are on handguns. As California’s Attorney General states regarding firearms information for new California residents:

 

“Any person transporting handguns into California is required under California law to transport those handguns unloaded and in a locked container other than the glove compartment or utility compartment of a vehicle.”

 

In addition, the AG requires that you, as a gun owner, do one of three things within sixty days of moving to California: register your firearm, sell it to a licensed dealer (or to a third party through a licensed dealer), or sell it to the police or sheriff’s department.

While there is no specific mention of the legality of bringing shotguns or rifles into the state, under the Transporting Firearms in California section, the AG explains that these non-concealable firearms are not required to be transported in a locked container, but must be unloaded while in transit.

And just in case you were wondering, it would be best not to try to bring your assault weapon across the California border – or any border for that matter.

 

“Licensing your dog or cat in California once you’ve moved in is mandated and enforced locally. Check with your city or county for your specific required actions – preferably before you arrive.”

 

Unlike firearms (and much more like huckleberries), California “generally prohibits” a wide variety of weapons. California Penal Code 16590 lists nunchucks, cane swords, and lipstick case knives among the wide array of weapons that, if you have them, can land you in hot water. A pity for the aspiring spy, but it’s best to leave all of these behind if you’re moving to California.

 

Plants and produce

california illegal

California is right to be protective of its $30 billion agricultural industry. An outbreak of invasive insects and pests could wreak havoc on the economy of the state, and the supply of fruits and vegetables across the country. Therefore, the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) is not shy about stopping potential disasters at the border.

Houseplants that have not been grown outside are generally allowed, as long as they are potted in commercially sold soil and not dirt from your old backyard. If a plant shows any sign of infestation or disease it will quickly be confiscated. For more detailed guidelines check out these Q&A by the CDFA 

One large category of prohibited items might surprise you, and that’s all citrus plants. California is particularly serious about barring all of it, including loose pieces of citrus fruit, from being brought into the state. Many other fruits, as well as a number of nuts and vegetables, are also prohibited. This extensive list by the CDFA lays out all the fun and surprises.

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The process — and sometimes the long wait — at California’s border stations can seem like an unnecessary hassle when you’re sitting there in your loaded-up vehicle. But California alone produces a third of the country’s vegetables and three-quarters of its fruits and nuts. It makes sense for them to be tough.

Doing your part when you make your move to Cali makes their job, and the long lines, a little easier to take.

Illustrations by Marlowe Dobbe

The Ultimate Guide To Moving Long Distance With Pets

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Those of us with precious fur babies only want the best for them. If you’re moving long-distance, bringing Fido or Mittens along for the journey might present new stressors you never even considered before.

Knowing this, who better to ask about the best way to move long-distance with pets than the very people we rely on to help us keep them healthy and happy? We reached out to several veterinarians and moving pros and compiled their best insights for how to relocate a pet.

Table of Contents

  1. Step 1: Prep Before Your Move
  2. Step 2: Check Local Pet Laws
  3. Step 3: Pick the Best Travel Option
  4. Step 4: Expert Advice While Moving
  5. Moving Tips by Species

Step 1: You Actually Gotta Prep Your Pet for Moving

You know you’re moving, right? Your pet doesn’t.

It’s best to avoid changing anything about your daily routine that doesn’t absolutely need to be changed, according to Jennifer Coates, a veterinarian who serves on the advisory board for Pet News Daily. Without realizing it, a lot of people are accidentally contributing to a much more difficult move.

Here is her professional advice for pet prep:

Don’t switch your pet to a new diet in the weeks surrounding a move. Sudden diet changes can lead to upset stomachs, she said. 

Plan to bring enough of their typical food for the duration of the trip. This is so you don’t have to purchase something new and different along the way.

If you’re driving and your pet isn’t used to the vehicle, spend time familiarizing them with it, if possible. “When you are driving with your pet, it is safest to keep them restrained so they don’t become a distraction, physically impede your ability to control the car, or injure themselves or other occupants in case of an accident,” Coates says. You may need to invest in a crate that can be tethered using a seatbelt or wedged into a footwell. For larger dogs, look into getting a pet seat belt system.

Visit your vet ahead of time to explicitly discuss the move. “Talk to your veterinarian if your pet has a history of anxiety or motion sickness,” Coates said. Nervous pets may benefit from calming nutritional supplements or pheromone sprays or collars. “A veterinarian can prescribe sedatives for a severely anxious pet, but perform a trial run before the big trip to see how your pet reacts to the medication,” Coates added.

Double-check that your pet is up-to-date on all their vaccinations. It’s a good idea to get a copy of their vaccination records to have handy while you’re traveling.

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Step 2: Check Local Pet Laws Where You’re Going

Before you hit the road or sky, you actually need to make sure your pet is allowed to cross state borders there, and that you have the proper documentation.

pet laws
State by state guide to moving with pets – mymove.com

“Any animal that crosses a state’s border, whether by car, plane, or train, needs to have an accompanying health certificate,” says Dr. Michelle Burch, who holds a doctorate in veterinarian medicine and advises for Safe Hounds Pet Insurance.

Every state has different laws and regulations depending on the species, Burch explains. (For example, if you’re moving to California with a dog, you’ll only need proof of its rabies vaccination.)

Talk to your vet about the requirements where you’re moving and look up local requirements on the USDA website.

If you end up needing a health certification for your pet, Google a USDA accredited veterinarian residing within your STARTING location. They can officially certify you will not be transmitting contagious and reportable diseases to your new area. 

Step 3: Pick the Best Travel Option for Them

If you’re thinking the movers you hire can help out with moving your furry friends, think again. “The movers moving your furniture won’t—and shouldn’t—handle animals at all,” advises Nicole Ellis, a certified professional dog trainer and pet lifestyle expert with Rover.com. This means you’ll need to personally escort your pet to the new destination, and how you do it will necessarily change your approach.

Moving Truck

If you’re driving some kind of moving truck, you should ideally have them in the front cab with you since there’s no climate control in the storage area. Plus, that way you can keep an eye on them and ensure they’re secured. 

If you’re staying in hotel rooms, make sure to call and book pet-friendly hotels or motels ahead of time!

Plane

If you’re flying, you may be able to keep your dog or cat with you in the cabin, depending on their size and breed, obviously. Airlines have very different rules regarding animal and carrier size limits. Generally, though, you’ll need an airline-approved soft-sided carrier that can fit under the seat in front of you with enough room for your pet to stand up and turn around.

airline policies
Airline pet policy database – bringfido.com

Larger animals will likely need to travel in the cargo area below the plane (unless they are a service animal). While generally safe, it’s important to proceed with caution if you go this route. 

Try to book a direct flight so they don’t spend extra time sitting in the cargo hold area or so they don’t need to be transferred to another plane. Provide water and food, and consider securing some extra food to the outside of the crate in case there is a delay.

If possible, book a flight during the spring or fall, when the weather is mildest, to avoid exposing them to extreme temperatures. And when boarding, have the crew let the pilot know there’s an animal onboard below, so they can keep the cargo temperature and pressure top of mind.

Keep in mind that certain animals just shouldn’t travel by cargo, such as brachycephalic dog breeds (aka smushy faces), which have more respiratory issues. Talk to your local veterinarian. 

Pet Relocation Service 

If you’re unable to drive or fly to your new destination with your pet by your side, you might want to consider hiring a pet relocation service (here’s a list of the best ones).

These companies will ship your pet by ground or air, and can usually handle just about any type of pet—from dogs and cats to lizards and livestock. This can also be a good option if you have an animal that’s banned by most airlines, such as a snub-nosed (or so-labeled “dangerous”) dog breed.

Pet shipping companies can also be convenient because they arrange for the proper paperwork to transport your animal and stay up-to-date on local travel restrictions. 

If you are using a pet relocation service, you definitely want to ensure they have these things in place before you hire them:

  • A contract: It’s a good idea to have an official contract in place, which Ellis notes all the decent shippers offer. “Not having terms and conditions that outline the hauler’s responsibilities leave the consumer vulnerable,” she says. Also, verify the service’s insurance coverage.
  • Proper crates: Animals should be transported in crash-tested crates, not just meal wire versions.
  • Frequent pit stops: Ask how often the driver stops to let your pet go potty and hydrate. Ideally, they should stop every 3-4 hours.
  • Strong communication: The driver should check in with you during transit to let you know how things are going. Establish how and when you should be contacted before dropping off your pet.  
  • “Pawsitive” reviews: Before committing to a company or service, be sure to read reviews on multiple sites and social media to see what kind of experience other customers have had.

And don’t be afraid to ask questions. “Ask who is actually doing the driving and ask for pictures of their rigs,” Ellis advises.

Also ask about what route they plan to take, including layovers, and for references (and actually take the time to call them). “Any decent shipper should be able to layout 10-15 references in a matter of minutes, and I don’t think it’s unreasonable to ask for that many,” Ellis says. “This is your furry family member we’re talking about, so you really can’t be too cautious and diligent.” 

How much are pet relocation services?

Keep in mind, however, that shipping a pet is pretty expensive. Air shipping can cost around $2,000-$3,000, while ground shipping can cost upwards of $5,000-$6,000 (especially if the animal is being transported over a few thousand miles).

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Step 4: Expert Advice for Keeping Your Pets Safe and Happy While Moving

No matter how you travel, it’s important to take a few steps to ensure the safety of your pet. Here are a few more things the pros told us:

Never leave your pet alone in the vehicle. It may be tempting to leave your animal in the car while you run a few errands or grab lunch, but it’s a risky move that’s not worth it. “Temperatures can quickly rise to dangerous levels even with the windows left partially open,” Coates told us. Plus, there’s a chance your pet could injure itself (especially if it’s stressed out) or even be stolen!

Bring along the scent of home. Moving will be stressful for an animal, which can lead to issues with eating, going potty, injuries, and more. (Not to mention, a long-distance drive to the soundtrack of whining or yowling is not exactly pleasant.) To help your dog or cat stay calm, put something that smells like home in their crate, like an unwashed towel, blanket, or t-shirt. 

Keep a parasite preventative handy. If your pet takes certain medicines or supplements, make sure you have an ample supply for the trip. Coates adds that dogs and cats should be on a veterinarian-recommended parasite preventative that protects against heartworms, fleas, and ticks.

Tag ‘em. If the worst were to happen and your pet somehow escaped while traveling, you want to make it as easy as possible to track them down. “Make sure your pet’s ID tag and microchip information is up-to-date,” Coates said. It’s also a good idea to have a few pictures of them on hand, just in case.

Buckle up. Just as you (hopefully) wear a seatbelt during transit, it’s important to secure your pet, too. Ellis recommended using a dog harness from Sleepypod, or a crash-tested carrier. 

Pack seven days of additional food and treats. To avoid disruptions to your pet’s diet, bring more than enough food for the trip. “I recommend packing enough food for the entire length of the move process, including an additional seven-day supply,” Burch said. “An additional reserve will come in handy if you have delays in your transition.”

(Usually) Bring their toys. Another way to keep your pet calm and distracted is by bringing along a couple of toys they love. “Your pet may not play with the toy during the transition, but this will help to reduce stress,” Burch said. The exception is if they are traveling by plane cargo—avoid putting any hard items inside with them, which can bounce around and potentially injure them.

Specific Moving Tips by Species

How to move with a dog

Dogs are creatures of habit and routine. Messing with that routine or introducing foreign items and people to their space can really freak them out. That’s why it’s important to desensitize them to moving boxes, dollies, and above all, their travel crate. In the days leading up to your move, give your dog treats while they’re around these items to create a positive association.

It’s also important to keep their regular routine intact as much as possible. For instance, try to stick to the same feeding times, and take potty breaks when they’re used to going out. 

Dogs also need plenty of exercise and mental stimulation, otherwise, they get bored and anxious. Try to work in some time for physical activity. And while Sparky is stuck in his crate, provide brain games like a stuffed Kong toy, or treat ball. 

How to move with a cat

Moving with a cat can be a bit tougher than with a dog, since they generally aren’t trained to sit, stay, or walk on a leash. Your kitty will probably spend a lot of time in its carrier while moving, so it’s crucial to make sure they’re comfortable being in there. It can help to start giving your cat its meals inside the carrier before move day.

There’s also the issue of potty breaks. You’ll need to pack their litter, litter pan, and scooper. 

“I also recommend pheromone supplementation with sprays or collars to reduce stress during the move,” Burch advises. “For cats, I recommend Feliway. The products replicate the mother’s pheromone produced to soothe her kittens.”

How to move with a bird

If you’re moving a bird, it’s especially important to ensure it doesn’t get stressed out. You’ll want to keep them nearby if possible, and keep an eye out for changes to their feathers, appetite, and behavior.

If traveling by car, keep their carrier in the back seat. If you’re in an accident, the passenger airbag could injure them. Try to keep the air temperature the same as their normal habitat, and bring a blanket to put over the carrier to prevent your bird from getting too much direct sunlight.

How to move with a reptile

Air travel is particularly difficult and stressful for reptiles, and it’s not recommended unless “absolutely necessary”. (That’s according to Georgina Ushi, a veterinarian, and writer at WeLoveDoodles.)

If you do, inspect the cargo hold to make sure it will be a safe and comfortable place for your reptile (it should be pressurized, the temperature should be safe, etc.). “Airlines will accept most reptiles, but only as cargo,” Ushi said. If you are traveling by cargo, be sure to use a carrier approved by the airline for your type of pet. “For larger reptiles, such as iguanas and larger snakes, a pet carrier may be sufficient.”

How to move with fish

Fish can be individually scooped into a 5-gallon container with their aquarium water. Ushi said it’s a good idea to contact an aquatic veterinarian to help you determine if you need to add any supplements in the water to help the fish during the trip. “I know some people who use sedation to help keep the fish free of stress and conserve oxygen,” she explained. 

You’ll want to keep the environment dark (or at least heavily shaded) and cool. Obviously, your fish will be vulnerable in this situation, so you want to minimize the amount of time they spend in their temporary homes as much as possible. 

Once you arrive at your location, the aquarium should be the first thing you unpack. “Remember that you will need a functioning aquarium when your fish arrives, as it is already in the water without a filter,” Ushi said.

Illustrations by Camila Abdanur

The Stuff That’s Illegal to Bring Into Texas

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Regardless of whether you’re moving from out of state to San Antonio, Dallas, or somewhere else in Texas, like relocating anywhere using long distance moving services, you’ll hold the responsibility of needing to know the laws of the land. Every state differs, and some states are stricter than others. But when it comes to what you can and cannot transport across state lines – and what you can or can’t possess once you’re there – we are sure there is no state quite like Texas.

Here are all the things that are illegal to bring into Texas, broken down by type. Welcome to the wild, mild west.

Fruits and Vegetables

While Texas may have a reputation for oil wells and football teams, the state also boasts a humongous $100 billion agriculture industry. It is no surprise then that they have more than a few rules regarding what fruits and vegetables can’t be brought over state lines.

The good news is the Texas Department of Agriculture spells out all the rules right here in this document. The bad news is this document is 21 pages long and uses a lot of big words. If you’re the type to snack on exotic fruit with hard-to-pronounce names, you may want to read carefully over the TDA’s rules. For the rest of us, here are the basics:

Of particular interest is the citrus fruit family. As the Southwest Farm Press states, “With very few exceptions, no citrus plants, or even pieces of citrus plants are allowed into the state from anywhere.” The National Plant Board gets a bit more technical, explaining (on page seven) that, “any living or non-living rootstock, leaf, root, stem, limb, twig, fruit, seed, seedling or other part of any plant in the botanical family Rutaceae, subfamily Aurantioideae.” As citrus is a huge part of the Texas economy, even one bad plant could potentially ruin entire crops.

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In addition to citrus fruits, Texas has plenty of prohibitions in place. If you’re coming from Florida or Puerto Rico, these things are some of the major items prohibited:

  • Apples
  • Avocados
  • Bell peppers
  • Blackberries

There are more than 50 kinds of fruits, vegetables, berries and spices that Texas prohibits coming from down south, due to Caribbean Fruit Fly infestation.

If you’re coming from anywhere in the US (except California, Arizona and parts of New Mexico), Texas also prohibits:

  • Hickory trees
  • Pecan trees
  • Walnut trees

As well as “…(any) parts thereof, except extracted nut meats”, thanks to the never-popular pecan weevil.

Finally, these vegetable plants are not restricted but heavily regulated coming from anywhere, due to a whole host of diseases and pests:

  • Tomatoes
  • Cabbage
  • Cauliflower
  • Broccoli
  • Collards
  • Peppers
  • Onions
  • Eggplants

It’s all right here in this exhaustive “Summary of Plant Protection Regulations“ from the Texas Department of Agriculture. Give it a read if you have the time and the will. Or just play it simple and leave every last lemon, walnut and berry behind.

Pets

We have some good news for all you Texas-bound pet owners. The Lone Star State merely requires that all dogs and cats be certified as rabies-vaccinated.

The bad news is that something as simple (and responsible) as keeping Rover on a legal leash requires a watch, a map, a thermometer, a tape measure and a weather forecast. According to Texas statute “§ 821.077. Unlawful Restraint of Dog” :

  • (a) An owner may not leave a dog outside and unattended by use of a restraint that unreasonably limits the dog’s movement:
  • (1) between the hours of 10 p.m. and 6 a.m.;
  • (2) within 500 feet of the premises of a school; or
  • (3) in the case of extreme weather conditions, including conditions in which:
  • (A) the actual or effective outdoor temperature is below 32 degrees Fahrenheit;
  • (B) a heat advisory has been issued by a local or state authority or jurisdiction; or
  • (C) a hurricane, tropical storm, or tornado warning has been issued for the jurisdiction by the National Weather Service.
  • (b) In this section, a restraint unreasonably limits a dog’s movement if the restraint:
  • (1) uses a collar that is pinch-type, prong-type, or choke-type or that is not properly fitted to the dog;
  • (2) is a length shorter than the greater of:
  • (A) five times the length of the dog, as measured from the tip of the dog’s nose to the base of the dog’s tail; or
  • (B) 10 feet;
  • (3) is in an unsafe condition; or
  • (4) causes injury to the dog.

Considering all this, it might just be easier to get a tiger.

We’re not kidding. Reading the Texas laws regarding owning exotic animals – including lions, tigers, bears and gorillas (seriously) – it seems only as difficult to register a “dangerous wild animal” as it does a pickup truck.

(While we’re at it, we’ll mention that it is legal in Texas to own flamethrowers, venomous snakes and, for the truly under-stimulated, military-grade tanks.)

But back to the world most of us inhabit. If you are relocating to Texas, you should know that certain species of fish and other aquatic life are prohibited. Despite their lengthy explanation on the environmental and economical destruction wreaked by the lionfish, the Texas Parks & Wildlife Department doesn’t list this non-native critter among their outlawed types of marine life. Here are just a few of the fish that are prohibited:

  • Tilapia
  • Piranhas
  • Freshwater Stingrays
  • Freshwater Eels
  • Temperate Basses
  • Oysters

All resources and information considered, it seems reasonable to believe you’re okay bringing your parakeet with you to your new home in Texas. But we strongly recommend checking with your local authorities as to what laws apply to your pets. As an example, in Waco, all dogs, cats and ferrets must be vaccinated against rabies; all pets must be spayed/neutered and microchipped; dog houses must have at least three walls in addition to a roof and a floor that is not the ground; and no, you cannot give your pet its rabies shot yourself.

Alcohol

The good news here is that Texas puts no limits or taxes on any alcoholic beverages you are transporting into the state, as long as you are in the process of relocating to Texas and the alcohol in your possession is intended for personal consumption only.

The bad news is that the Texas heat will skunk your swill faster than you can say “Lone Star Lager”. So you better hope that your’s isn’t a long distance move in the heat.

Keep in mind, however, that once you are actually settled in the Lone Star State, you’ll be subjected to fines and/or jail time if you fail to declare that case of tequila on your way home from Mexico, or any other alcohol you bought out of state and are transporting back into Texas.

As for figuring out the laws in your particular municipality for purchasing beer, wine or liquor, good luck.

Plants

Texas has no apparent problems with houseplants that are grown indoors in a commercially-prepared potting mix (rather than in soil) and are free of pests and diseases. These may enter Texas without certification.

However, according to the same “Texas Dept. of Agriculture Summary of Plant Protection Regulations” we saw earlier, “houseplants grown or kept outdoors require a phytosanitary certificate from the department of agriculture of the origin state indicating freedom from pests and diseases.”

We’ll be blatantly honest here. There seems no guarantee that your word will be good enough if someone wearing a TDA uniform asks if you’ve ever put your rubber tree plant out on the patio or the front porch, and you say no.

And just in case you were wondering, you can’t bring all that firewood for your backyard chiminea. Texas doesn’t even like Texans moving firewood from one part of the state to another, for fear of spreading potential or active infestations. Check out the Texas info on DontMoveFirewood.org – and consider giving that chiminea a good washing too before trying to carry that across the border into Texas.

Firearms

And what would Texas be without guns? In keeping with their wild, wild west reputation, the state makes it easy for lawful firearms carriers from other states to legally carry in Texas, either through reciprocal or unilateral agreements with those other states. In other words, just like having a driver’s license from another state allows you to legally drive in Texas, having a permit to carry a firearm in another state allows you to legally carry your firearm in Texas.

The analogy is not perfect, of course. Texas has no firearm-carry agreements with Oregon, Wisconsin, Minnesota, Maine, Vermont or New Hampshire. And while you have 90 days upon relocating to Texas to switch your driver’s license over, there is no requirement whatsoever to register your firearm in the State of Texas.

None.

How’s that for wild?

It’s not complete anarchy, of course. “Texas requires any individual in possession of a handgun to inform a law enforcement officer of their permit or license to carry if an officer asks them for identification.” Texas also spells out restrictions and requirements regarding carrying in vehicles, open carry and places where carrying is illegal.

As far as transporting your firearm from your old state to your new home in Texas, your most pressing concern might be following the laws of the various states you may be passing through along your way.

In some ways, Texas seems like an almost lawless land. In others, the laws can seem unduly convoluted. You can have a gun. You can get a tiger. Just be sure to leave the tangerines behind!

Illustrations by Subin Yang

Here’s What Happened to Me After One Month Inside a Smart Home

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Like most 90s kids, I watched every single Disney Channel Original Movie—and there was no DCOM I loved more than Smart House. I was fascinated by the idea of a house equipped with “Personal Applied Technology” (“PAT” for short) that could listen and respond to every request while providing accurate information on demand. I can’t tell you how badly I wanted a home that could make my favorite smoothie, project any movie or music video I could imagine onto any wall, then turn my bedroom into a virtual beach.

As an adult, I still love Smart House, but for more practical reasons, admittedly.

During the process of making my house “smart” in the modern age, I discovered two common misconceptions. First, building a smart home is expensive, and second, so many gadgets require you to have to automate everything. 

After doing some serious digging, it turns out that neither is true. In fact, it’s possible to start off with just a wifi signal and one or two smart devices. 

Here’s what happened in my first month of installing a bunch of new devices.

It’s True: I Became Really Accustomed to Talking Out Loud to No One, Like in the Commercials

I’ve been slow to adopt the “Hey Siri” function on my iPhone, but I am all about asking my Amazon Echo to launch my favorite playlist or tell me the weather. Alexa and Echo’s personalities are like a personal butler who has more than 1,000 specific skills. I’ve learned to ask mine for everything from calling an Uber to helping me manage my finances. I felt weird at first about giving commands to an empty room, but I quickly learned to love the hands-free, immediate feedback Alexa provides.

The Echo, Apple’s new HomePod, and Google Home all serve as central hubs for your newly connected home. If you’re still uncertain about smart home tech (or if you want to feel like you’re actually living in Smart House) I highly recommend starting off with one of these gadgets.

I Actually Started to Feel Safer (and Got Accustomed to the Convenience Quickly)

One key reason that people enter the smart house game is for improved home security. It’s possible to go big with wireless cameras, motion sensors, doorbells, smoke alarms and more, but I started with a smart lock after seeing the technology at a few Airbnb stays. You’ve probably used keypad entry locks, but did you know that you can now open your lock with your Bluetooth-enabled smartphone simply by approaching the door or with a single fingerprint? Yes, James Bond, it’s true!

I definitely feel safer living alone after installing a smart lock. The technology is notoriously difficult to “pick,” and there’s no risk of my keys falling into the wrong hands or of forgetting to lock the door when I leave. I can also remotely grant entry to my dog-walker. Finally, I’ve gone a whole month without dropping my groceries, gym bag, purse and lunchbox in a pile on my steps as I search for my keys.

I Slowly Stressed Less About Both Cooking and Cleaning

Crock-pot.com

Adulting is hard work, and I often struggle to find the time to prepare a wholesome meal and deep clean my home. I’ve long known about the magic of slow-cooking, but the Smart Crock-Pot takes it to the next level. I can control the device from my smartphone, which means I can adjust time, temperature, or power if I’m running late for dinner—no more relying on the appliance itself to switch over to warm or turn off.  

Similar to slow cookers, robot vacuums have been on the market for awhile, and now I’m wondering why I didn’t invest sooner. The Roomba is the most recognizable of the bunch, but there’s a wide range of options for cost and functionality—and most can be programmed and scheduled with your smart home hub. Sigh of relief over here as my robot vacuum takes over the burden of this unpleasant chore.

My Dog Got Hooked on the Automation Too

furbo.com

Smart home tech also extends to pets. My dog likes to be fed on a schedule—he knows exactly when dinner is on its way and makes sure to remind me if I’m a minute behind. Like a smart slow cooker, a wifi-enabled smart dog feeder is a lifesaver if I’m working late or have other evening plans. My feeder allows me to set up mealtimes and portion sizes right from my phone. I’ve found that my dog is less likely to whine at my feet for food and treats because he knows to expect it regularly from his feeder. He’s even lost a little bit of extra weight since we started using this gadget, and I feel like a more responsible dog parent.

Disney was remarkably prescient about the future of home automation when it created Smart House. It may have seemed far-fetched back then, but it turns out you actually can live out that childhood dream of having your house do everything for you! 

Emily Long is a home safety and automation expert for SafeWise. She loves to geek out on new tech gadgets and home improvement projects. When she isn’t writing about smart home tech, she can be found teaching yoga, road tripping or hiking in the mountains.

Pet Relocation 101: How to Move With a Dog

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Tons of dogs and pets are moving across the country every day. Can you imagine it? Hopefully, their owners know that getting them to their new home safely involves a lot more than making sure they don’t pee in the car.

So today, in the spirit of keeping our dogs happy and our cars clean, we bring you our top tips for taking care of your pup before, during and even after your big move.

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Help a Friend Move (Without Lifting Anything)

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Let’s say your friends are moving into a new home. For fun, let’s say they’re moving long-distance from Las Vegas to DC, so moving is an especially hectic and special time for them. That said, if these friends of yours are smart they’ve already hired long-distance helpers, so they’re all set for this big moving day. But you – being the amazing, thoughtful, generous friend that you are – still want to somehow help these friends with their move. Since the physical moving and lifting part is covered (thanks, HireAHelper!), you need to get a bit more creative when it comes to helping out.

Fear not! Moving is more than just picking up boxes; Here are five ways to help your friends move without any heavy lifting.

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