Moving with Pets in Colorado: From Altitude Adjustment to Travel Tips

Moving is chaotic for humans, but for pets, it can be terrifying. Their territory is being dismantled, strange people (us!) are walking in and out, and their routine is disrupted.

Whether you’re moving across town or coming to Colorado from sea level, your furry family members need special consideration.

1. Moving Day Safety

The front door will be open… a lot. This is the #1 risk for pets bolting.

• The “Safe Room”: Designate a bathroom or empty bedroom as the pet zone. Put their bed, water, and toys in there. Tape a sign on the door: “DO NOT OPEN and PETS INSIDE.”
• Daycare: If possible, treat them to a day at doggy daycare. It keeps them safe and out from underfoot.

2. The Colorado Adjustment

If you are new to the state, keep in mind:

• Altitude & Dehydration: The dry air affects pets quickly. Keep water bowls full. If your dog seems lethargic or is vomiting, check with a vet.
• Paws on Pavement: Our high-altitude sun heats up asphalt fast. Test the ground with your hand; if it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for paws.
• Wildlife: Colorado Springs has deer, foxes, bears, and coyotes—even in the suburbs. Leash laws are strictly enforced for a reason. Don’t leave small pets unattended in the yard.

3. Packing Tips

• Pack Pet Stuff Last: Their food, medication, leash, and bed should be the very last things packed and the first things unpacked.
• Keep Routine: Try to feed and walk them at the same times as usual, even amidst the chaos.

4. Updating Info

Don’t forget to update your address on their:

• Microchip registry
• Collar tags
• Vet records

At iHaul iMove, we are pet lovers. We watch out for your animals, but ensuring they are secured helps us work safer and faster.