6 Tips for a PCS with Pets
Due to a serious lack of self-control around cute, furry things, my husband and I have managed to accumulate three dogs and a cat over the past several years. That’s right, three dogs—and they aren’t three Chihuahuas either. We added one at each duty station. Chris and I each brought one dog into our marriage, and we moved with two dogs from Fort Hood to Fort Benning. Then, we added a third dog at Benning, and the five of us (including my husband and I) PCS’d to Fort Bragg. Then we got the cat, and the six of us traveled from Bragg to Bliss. That was quite the adventure, and we are no strangers to a PCS with pets.
The moral of this story is: we’ve learned a thing or two about PCSing with pets. And while it’s never easy, there are steps you can take to make it more manageable!
Here are my (hard-earned) tips for making a CONUS PCS with multiple pets:
1. Plan ahead.
If your PCS requires overnight stops, make sure you research hotels and book rooms in advance. Pet policies can vary widely from place to place, so it’s always wise to call and personally verify pet policies over the phone. Trust me, you don’t want to be running around Atlanta at 10 p.m. trying to find a place to stay, only to discover the last available option has a bulletproof glass reception area and a bedspread that was likely not cleaned.
Pro tip: Most La Quinta hotels are pet-friendly! But again, be safe and verify your specific location prior to booking.
2. Get your vet records ahead of time.
Save yourself time and trouble by having your current vet print out your pets’ shot records and health history, and take the hard copy with you. You may or may not need these along the way depending on your stops, and in case of an emergency, you are fully prepared if a new vet needs to treat your pet.
3. Pack for Pooky, too.
Make sure you have the essentials for your pet set aside along with your own personal goods. We all know how overzealous military packers can be, and it really isn’t fun to be getting ready to head out the door only to discover your leashes are on a moving truck who knows where. Include leashes, food, bowls, bedding, and any medication your pets might need.
4. Make extra time.
Just like a child, your pet will need to get out of the car from time to time. Make sure you plan extra time into your trip to allow for these stops, and be prepared for them with water and bowls (and poop bags—don’t be that person at the rest area).
5. Secure Spot in the car.
You’ve probably seen a person driving down the road with a tiny lap dog snuggled between them and the steering wheel. While I’m sure they think it’s cute, it’s also incredibly dangerous. Not only is that dog a distraction for the driver, but in case of an accident, the results would be devastating. Keep your pets secured safely where they will not create additional risk on the road.
6. Have plans for your arrival.
Does your new housing have a fence in place? Are there potential hazards for your pets, like poisonous plants or possible escape routes? Check your new surroundings thoroughly, and always make sure your pets are tagged and microchipped with up-to-date information just in case they get loose.
While there are several professional shipment services you can use to safely transport your pet, it’s also possible to do it yourself! With a little extra planning, your move can go just as smoothly with Fido in tow. And, before you know it, everyone will feel right at home again at your new duty station.
What tips would you share for PCSing with a pet? We want to hear from you!
