Thinking about moving to Texas? You’re not alone! According to our latest Migration Report, the Lone Star State ranked as the second most popular relocation destination in the country, accounting for 12.2% of U.S. moves in 2024. That’s a lot of people packing up and heading south.
But before you pack your bags, too, it’s worth knowing that crossing state lines into Texas with certain items can land you in legal hot water. That doesn’t mean those items are necessarily illegal to own in Texas. It just means bringing them into the state from elsewhere might break a few rules. Some of these laws are in place to protect local agriculture, wildlife, and public safety, and they often apply whether you’re moving cross-country or just passing through.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the laws to know when moving to Texas, including what you can’t bring, what needs declaring, and what to check if you’re making Texas your new home.
Citrus Plants
Love a backyard orange tree or a potted lemon bush? Before you dream of sipping homegrown orange juice on your new deck, you’ll want to check the rules about bringing citrus plants into Texas. It’s unlawful to enter Texas with citrus plants unless they meet specific inspection and certification standards, and even then, there are restrictions.
Why? Texas has a major citrus industry to protect. Diseases like citrus greening and pests like the Asian citrus psyllid can easily hitch a ride on seemingly healthy plants. To guard against crop loss, the Texas Department of Agriculture prohibits the entry of citrus plants from certain states, especially those with known infestations, like Florida and California.
Even if your plant looks fine, you’ll still need to check the USDA’s quarantine zones and obtain certification from your state’s agriculture department before transport. When in doubt, leave citrus behind or buy new ones from a certified Texas nursery once you’ve settled in.
Some Other Fruits and Vegetables
It’s not just citrus you need to worry about when moving to Texas. Plenty of other fruits and vegetables are restricted or outright banned from crossing the state border, depending on where you’re coming from. These rules are in place to stop the spread of invasive pests and plant diseases that could devastate local crops.
“While the state has reciprocity agreements with many others, not all out-of-state firearm licenses are recognized. In most cases, you’ll be required to update your firearm licensure if you plan to carry.”
For example, apples, apricots, nectarines, peaches, and plums from certain states are restricted if they come with leaves or stems attached. Root vegetables like garlic, onions, and ginger may also be subject to inspection, especially if they haven’t been commercially packaged or treated. Even homegrown produce from your backyard garden can be flagged if you’re traveling through or into Texas with it.
Bringing something in from your garden might not feel like a big deal. However, if you’re moving to Texas, things like pests and fungi can hitch a ride in ways that aren’t obvious. It’s safer and often easier to leave it behind if at all possible.
Uncertified Houseplants
That potted ficus or spider plant on your windowsill may seem harmless, but if it’s coming across state lines, it might not make the trip legally. Texas requires certain houseplants to be inspected and certified before they can enter the state, especially if they’ve been grown outdoors or in areas known for agricultural pests.
What’s the concern? Soil, leaves, and even plant containers can carry harmful insects, fungi, or diseases that aren’t visible to the naked eye. Plants grown entirely indoors and in sterile, soil-free potting mix are usually safe to bring, especially if they were purchased from a certified nursery.
Tip: To avoid delays or confiscation at the border, check with your local Department of Agriculture before loading up the moving truck. When in doubt, repot your plants with clean soil and ditch the dirt.
Firewood
Bringing your firewood might sound like a cozy idea, especially if you’ve got a stash of seasoned wood from your backyard. However, the legal transit of firewood is another important thing to know before moving to Texas.
Firewood is one of the easiest ways for invasive pests to spread, especially wood-boring insects like the emerald ash borer or gypsy moth. Even if your logs look clean, they could be carrying larvae or fungi that pose a serious threat to Texas forests.
That’s why transporting untreated firewood across state lines is heavily regulated. In many cases, it’s completely prohibited unless the wood has been heat-treated and certified pest-free. Some states issue stamps or tags to confirm this certification, and Texas may require those documents at entry points or during inspections.
The safest bet? Don’t move firewood. Instead, buy what you need locally once you arrive in Texas. It’s a simple way to protect your new community and avoid fines.
Unvaccinated or Unleashed Dogs and Cats
Bringing your pets along on your big move? Great, but make sure they’re up to date on their vaccinations and properly restrained during transit. The Texas Department of State Health Services requires all dogs and cats over 12 weeks old to be vaccinated against rabies before entering the state.
If you’re driving into Texas, law enforcement or animal control officers have the authority to check documentation if they have reason to believe an animal hasn’t been vaccinated. If you’re flying, most airlines won’t allow pets on board without proof of rabies vaccination anyway.
In addition to health regulations, pets must be properly leashed or crated while in public spaces, including rest stops and parks. Texas has leash laws in place to protect both animals and people. Violating them can result in fines, even if your dog is well-behaved.
To avoid stress on the road and at your destination, double-check your pet’s vaccination records, keep them secured while traveling, and look into local ordinances for your new city or county once you arrive.
Undeclared Alcohol
If you’re packing up your wine rack or liquor cabinet for the move, be aware that Texas has strict rules about alcohol imports, especially if you’re bringing in more than a personal amount. While you can legally transport alcohol for personal use, you must declare it if you’re crossing the state line with large quantities.
“To guard against crop loss, the Texas Department of Agriculture prohibits the entry of citrus plants from certain states, especially those with known infestations, like Florida and California.”
Texas law limits personal imports to 1 gallon of liquor, 3 gallons of wine, and 24 12-ounce cans of beer per adult without a permit. Anything over those limits technically requires a permit from the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission (TABC). If you fail to declare it and get caught, your alcohol could be confiscated, and you may be fined.
If you’re using movers, it’s also important to note that many moving companies in Texas won’t transport alcohol at all. To stay compliant, plan to bring your bottles yourself, and know the rules beforehand.
Other Rules and Laws to Check If You’re Moving to Texas
There are plenty of lesser-known legal details that can trip up newcomers, so it’s worth reviewing a few more things before moving to Texas. These aren’t about what you can bring across the border, but rather what you’ll need to do once you arrive.
Firearm Licensure Requirements
If you’re a gun owner, you’ll need to check how your existing permits stack up in Texas. While the state has reciprocity agreements with many others, not all out-of-state firearm licenses are recognized. In most cases, you’ll be required to update your firearm licensure if you plan to carry. Texas also has specific storage and transportation laws that vary from those in other states.
Upcoming THC and Cannabis Restrictions
Even if moving to Texas from a state where recreational marijuana is legal, keep in mind that Texas laws are very different. Recreational cannabis is illegal in Texas, and recent legislation aims to crack down on hemp-derived THC products like Delta-8 and Delta-9. These items may be legal where you’re coming from, but bringing them into Texas could put you at risk.
Relocating a Business? Know the Requirements
If you run a business and plan to bring it with you, be prepared to register your business with the State of Texas. Requirements can vary depending on your industry and location, but you’ll likely need to file with the Secretary of State, register for taxes, and obtain local permits or licenses.
Texas Driver’s License and Car Registration
Handling your vehicle documentation is a key part of relocating. Here’s what you need to know about moving to Texas regarding car registration and licenses:
You have 90 days to update your driver’s license once you become a Texas resident.
Before you can register your vehicle, it must pass a state inspection at a licensed Texas inspection station.
Texas has its own vehicle insurance minimums: $30,000 for bodily injury per person, $60,000 per accident, and $25,000 for property damage.
It’s also a good idea to carry proof of insurance and residency documents with you until all updates are complete. Delaying these steps could lead to fines, denied insurance claims, or other legal headaches.
Final Thoughts
Relocating to Texas is exciting, but before you hit the road, it’s smart to double-check the rules. If you’re still organizing your move, consider hiring experienced Service Providers through HireAHelper’s marketplace. We make it easy to compare prices, read real customer reviews, and book local movers in Texas, from Dallas to San Antonio and everywhere in between.
Want help packing the right way? Explore our tips for packing help or check out our full library of moving guides. The more you know now, the smoother your Texas move will be.
The Ultimate Guide To Moving Long Distance With Pets
Those of us with precious fur babies only want nothing more than to keep them safe and comfortable — especially during a long-distance move.
Finding the perfect pet-friendly apartment or home is only the first hurdle. Bringing Fido or Mittens along for the journey means taking extra steps to care for their well-being. Remember, your pet will experience stress they’ve likely never felt before.
One option is to leave it to the pros. Our partners at CitizenShipper have been moving pets and other precious items safely and easily for customers for over 12 years, and they can do the same for yours too.
But if you want to take care of it yourself, who better to ask about the best way to move long distancewith 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.
Whether you have fur babies or scaly babies — and even if you have no idea where to begin — this guide is for you.
Just as with humans, moving can be incredibly stressful for pets. According to the American Kennel Club, a poorly executed move can be traumatic, with changes in environment and routine being common triggers for anxiety.
As literal creatures of habit, pets are especially sensitive to disruptions like unfamiliar smells, new surroundings, strange people, and altered routines.
But don’t worry! There are plenty of ways to help mitigate any discomfort or distress your pet might feel.
Checklist: How to Move Long Distance with Pets
It can be overwhelming to think about everything you need to do during a move, so here’s an easy step-by-step guide on how to move long-distance with pets.
Step 1: Prep Your Pet for Moving
While you may be fully aware of the upcoming move, your pet has no idea what’s coming — and that certainly can make things stressful for them.
“Double-check your [new] home inside and out for toxic plants like lilies or philodendrons, and either place them out of reach or replace them.”
To help ease the transition, it’s best to avoid changing anything about your daily routine that isn’t absolutely necessary, according to Jennifer Coates, a veterinarian who serves on the advisory board for Pet News Daily. Without realizing it, many pet owners accidentally make the move harder on their pets by introducing too many changes at once.
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.
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 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/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, and that you have the proper documentation.
“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 veterinary medicine.
Every state has different laws and regulations depending on the species. (For example, if you’re moving to California with a dog, you’ll only need proof of its rabies vaccination.)
Look up local requirements first on the USDA website, then talk to your vet about the requirements where you’re moving.
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 to move your stuff can help out with moving your furry friends too, 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, you’ll be able to 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 with your pet, here are some essential tips to make the journey smoother and safer:
Check cabin travel policies: Depending on your pet’s size and breed, they may be able to travel with you in the cabin. Be sure to check airline rules on animal and carrier size limits. Typically, you’ll need an airline-approved soft-sided carrier that fits under the seat with enough space for your pet to stand and turn around.
Research cargo travel space: Larger animals will likely need to fly in the cargo area unless they’re service animals. While generally safe, proceed with caution if you go this route.
Book direct flights: Whenever possible, book direct flights to minimize the time spent in the cargo hold and reduce the risk of delays or transfers. Always provide water and food.
Pick optimal travel seasons: Try to fly in the spring or fall when the temperatures are milder. Before boarding, notify the crew that your pet is in the cargo hold so they can monitor the temperature and pressure.
Consult your vet: Make sure air travel is safe for your pet, especially if they’re a brachycephalic breed (aka smushy faces like pugs or bulldogs), which have more respiratory issues.
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.
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’re using a pet relocation service, you definitely want to make sure 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 leaves 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.
Ask for references (and actually take the time to call them): “Any decent shipper should be able to provide 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.”
Don’t be afraid to ask questions: “Ask who is actually doing the driving and ask for pictures of their rigs,” Ellis advises.
Ask what route they plan to take, including layovers.
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 $6,000-$7,000 (especially if the animal is being transported over a few thousand miles).
Step 4: Keep 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 tips the pros gave us to ensure your pet’s security:
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.”
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.
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Step 5: Help Them Get Settled in Your New Home
Moving into a new home is just as stressful for pets as it is for people. Here are some ways to make your pet feel comfortable in their new environment:
Set up a familiar space: Set up a cozy corner with your pet’s bedding, toys, and food right away. This will give them a sense of familiarity in a new and potentially overwhelming space. Prioritize their well-being and unpack their things first.
Stick to routines: Pets are creatures of habit, just like you are. Be sure to keep that in mind and keep your pet’s daily schedule as consistent as possible. Maintain the same times for feedings, walks, or playtime. This might be a tall ask when you’re settling in too, but it provides a sense of stability. They crave it!
Gradually introduce new areas: Don’t overwhelm your little buddy. Instead of giving your pet free rein of the entire house, introduce them to one room at a time. Let them get comfortable by sniffing, walking around, exploring, and checking things out one space at a time.
Pet-proof the new environment: Your new space needs to be safe. Check around for any hazards like exposed wires, sharp objects, or small items that look delicious. And secure your windows! A panicked pet may try to get out.
Provide plenty of attention and reassurance: Moving can leave pets feeling anxious. Comforting them with affection and familiar smells can help them adjust. A treat or two doesn’t hurt, either.
Monitor behavior for signs of stress: This doesn’t stop with the move. Keep an eye on your pet’s behavior in the days after you arrive at your new home. Watch for signs of anxiety such as loss of appetite, excessive hiding, or destructive behavior. If stress persists, consider consulting your vet.
Pet Proofing Your New Home
A new home is exciting — but it comes with new potential hazards for your pet. Whether it’s hidden dangers like loose cords or harmful substances, consider the possibilities and create an environment where your furry friend can roam safely. Especially when your focus might be on unpacking and cleaning up post-move.
“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.”
Pet-proofing doesn’t need to be complicated, but it does require a little extra attention to detail. By taking a few simple precautions, you can prevent accidents and focus on your pet’s well-being from day one. Here are a few tips:
Secure loose wires and cords: Hide cords behind furniture or use cord covers to prevent pets from chewing on them.
Store harmful substances: Keep cleaning supplies, medications, and other toxic items locked away in cabinets or placed out of reach to prevent accidental ingestion.
Remove toxic plants: Double-check your home inside and out for toxic plants like lilies or philodendrons, and either place them out of reach or replace them.
Block off unsafe areas: Use gates or barriers to restrict access to staircases, balconies, or rooms with potential hazards — especially while your pet gets used to the new space.
Secure trash cans, windows, and doors: Prevent your pets from getting curious in your new space by battening down the hatches.
Tips for Moving with Pets: By Species
Tips for moving 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. Here are some tips to make the transition easier.
Desensitize them to moving supplies: Think about all the smells your little buddy is experiencing. It’s probably overwhelming. Plus, dogs can get anxious around unfamiliar items like moving boxes, dollies, and their travel crate. A few days before the move, allow them to explore these objects in a calm environment. Give them treats while they do this to build trust. Show them that it’s all okay and safe.
Stick to their routine: Routine is always important for pups, but when moving, it’s especially true. Keep your dog’s daily routine as consistent as possible during the move. Feed them, walk them, and offer potty breaks at the usual times.
Exercise before the move: Wear ‘em out! Give your dog plenty of exercise leading up to moving day. A long walk or play session will help them rest, which reduces anxiety.
Provide mental stimulation: During the move, dogs may be stuck in their crate. Don’t let their mind wander, because if that happens, they might freak out. Keep them occupied with brain games such as a stuffed Kong toy or chew toys to help burn off energy and prevent boredom.
Prepare for the car ride: This one is key. If your dog isn’t used to long car rides, consider taking them on shorter trips beforehand to help them get used to being in the car. On the day of the move, make sure they’re secured with a dog seatbelt.
Tips for moving with a cat
Moving with a cat can be tricky, as they are generally more sensitive to changes and routines than dogs — and usually aren’t trained to follow commands. According to veterinarian Dr. Burch, using products like Feliway can “reduce stress during the move,” but be sure to check in with your vet first. Along with this, here are a few key tips to help make the move smoother:
Get them used to the carrier: Place the carrier in their environment early and encourage exploration by adding familiar bedding and toys. Remind them that this is a safe zone. Feed them meals or treats inside to build positive associations.
Plan for litter breaks: Pack their litter, pan, and scooper. For long trips, bring a portable litter box and try to stick to their regular routine. The smell will soothe them — even if it’s a little unpleasant for you.
Use pheromone products: Cats are sensitive creatures, but you can tap into their psyche with pheromones. Products like Feliway sprays or collars calm them.
Bring familiar items: Pack your cat’s favorite blanket or toys to provide comfort and familiarity during the move, along with the objects carrying the familiar scent of home.
Limit new space access: Once at your new home, restrict your cat to one room at first to reduce overwhelm. Then, slowly let them explore the rest of the space. This helps them get to know their new environment without stressing them out. It helps you too — frightened and stressed cats tend to hide, and finding them in a new home could prove difficult.
Monitor stress levels: Don’t assume things are all set when you’re finished with the move. Watch for signs of stress like hiding or changes in appetite. If it persists, consult a vet.
Tips for moving with a bird
Birds can be especially sensitive to stress during a move, so take extra precautions to keep them calm and comfortable.
Keep them close: You’re a part of your birds’ flock, so your presence can help ease Tweety’s anxiety. Stay close to your bird during the move to help reduce anxiety. Plus, this makes it easy for you to monitor them.
Travel safely: Protect your flying friend. Place the carrier in the back seat, away from airbags, which could injure them in an accident.
Watch for stress: Birds are harder to read than other types of pets, so pay attention. Look for changes in feathers, appetite, or behavior. Familiar objects can help soothe them.
Control temperature: Do you like being in extreme temperatures? Neither does your pet, especially birds. Keep the car’s temperature stable and cover the carrier lightly to block direct sunlight.
Reduce noise: Play calming music or white noise to keep your bird relaxed. It’ll help chill you out, too.
Tips for moving with a reptile
All the usual “traveling with pet” tips apply to your slithery or scaley friends, but air travel is particularly difficult and stressful for reptiles. It’s not recommended unless “absolutely necessary,” 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 they are traveling by cargo, be sure to use a carrier approved by the airline for the type of reptile. “For larger reptiles, such as iguanas and larger snakes, a pet carrier may be sufficient.”
Tips for moving with fish
Moving with fish requires careful planning. According to Ushi, 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. Some people even use sedation to reduce stress and conserve oxygen.
Here are some essential tips for moving with fish:
Transport in a container with tank water: Scoop each fish into a 5-gallon container filled with aquarium water to maintain consistency in their environment. This amount is very important because it gives them space to breathe and relax.
Consult an aquatic vet: Don’t fly (or swim) blind here. Reach out to an aquatic veterinarian for advice on water supplements or sedatives to keep the fish calm during the move.
Keep the environment dark and cool: The sun in cars can be hot! Be careful. To reduce stress, keep the container shaded or covered to keep the temperature cool throughout the trip.
Minimize time in temporary homes: Move quickly and efficiently. Limit the amount of time your fish spend outside of their full aquarium to avoid prolonged exposure to unfiltered water.
Set up the aquarium immediately: Once you arrive, unpack and set up the aquarium first so they can get comfortable. As Ushi advises, “Remember that you will need a functioning aquarium when your fish arrives, as it is already in the water without a filter.”
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How to Move with Pets FAQs
Should you move pets first or last?
It’s best to move pets last. Settle everything in your new home before bringing them over, as the noise and commotion of moving can stress them out. Not to mention, you don’t want to worry about them being underfoot or escaping while you’re moving furniture. Prepare a quiet, familiar space for them to adjust to once they arrive.
How do you move across the country with multiple pets?
When moving with multiple pets, plan ahead for transportation and accommodations. Keep pets separated if they don’t get along well during travel. Make sure they each have their own carrier or space in the car. If flying, check airline regulations for multiple pet travel. Make sure you bring plenty of food, water, and supplies for the trip.
How to travel a long distance with a dog?
For long-distance travel, make frequent stops to let your dog stretch, go potty, and drink water. Keep them secure in the car with a crate or dog seatbelt, and maintain their feeding and potty routine as much as possible. If flying, consult with your vet beforehand. Make sure you understand the airline’s pet policy and that it works for your dog’s size and needs.
Is it OK to travel long distance with a cat?
Yes, it’s safe to travel long distances with a cat, but you must prepare. Get your cat comfortable with their carrier in advance and use a pheromone spray or collar to help reduce stress. Make sure to bring their litter box and offer them water during breaks. For air travel, check with the airline to see if your cat can fly in the cabin with you.
Moving with pets may seem daunting, but with the right preparation, you can make the transition smoother for both of you. Remember, your pet looks to you for comfort and security. By planning ahead, you’re helping them feel at home no matter where you go.
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, rabies vaccinations aren’trequired 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
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.
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