Moving with Birds

Birds are very sensitive to change, so moving can be particularly stressful for them. If you plan properly, however, you can minimize the troubling changes in your bird’s world.

A lot depends on how you will transport your birds, by airline or car. As with dogs and cats, bus lines and trains do not accept pets. For the safety and comfort of your birds, traveling by car is the best option. This is not always possible and most airlines will allow birds to be flown with owners in the cabin or in the cargo hold.

Regardless of how you transport your birds, you should have them checked by a veterinarian and obtain health certificates. Some states require health certificates and even if you will be traveling through or to a state that doesn’t, it’s better to have the documents, for no other reason than to show proof of ownership.

Remember to remain as calm as possible during the move. Your birds will pick up on your demeanor, so if you are stressed, they will become stressed, too. If possible, clear out a room for your bird before the professional movers arrive. This way, the bird can avoid most of the stress caused by the moving chaos. Generally, your pets should be the last to leave and the first to arrive when moving.

If you dread moving your pets yourself, consider a pet transportation company. If you are expensing relocation, see if you can negotiate having your company pay to have your pets moved professionally. Moving companies are not allowed to transport pets. When considering professional movers, you can ask if they work with or can recommend a pet transportation company. Pet movers handle everything from picking up your pet at home to delivering it to your new home or a kennel. Most offer airline or vehicle travel options.

Traveling by car

Birds usually enjoy car travel, especially if they can see out the windows. If you choose to get different carriers for the trip, make sure to get them at least a month before you travel. Have your birds spend time in the new carriers or cages so they become used to them. You may also want to place some of their toys or treats in the carriers, so it’s a positive experience.

If your birds are not used to car travel, you may want to take them on some short rides to acclimate them.

Here are some more tips for moving with your birds:

Bring your bird’s regular food and water. Changes can cause intestinal issues. It’s also a good idea to bring at least a month’s supply of their usual food and water in case it’s not readily available at your new home. You can slowly switch food or water type when you get settled.
Have a good quality cooler to keep fruits and vegetables for your bird on the trip.
Birds are very sensitive to temperature, so make sure the car’s air conditioning and heating is operating properly before you leave. If it’s hot, you can purchase glare guards, such as those used for babies, to help block the sun.
Birds should travel in the backseat with their carriers belted in. Don’t let your bird ride up front if there are airbags that cannot be turned off.
Plan your trip carefully, making reservations at hotels or motels that allow pets. Usually, there will be an extra charge. Also, bring a tarp or painter’s cloth to place under the cage or carrier to protect the room’s carpet.
Try to avoid using water while in the car. Instead, bring fruit such as cucumbers or citrus. This will keep your bird dry, comfortable and hydrated. You can offer water on stops.

Traveling by airline

Rules for pets vary by airline, although there are federal regulations requiring that cargo sections suitable for transporting pets be temperature controlled and pressurized. Air travel can be especially stressful for birds if they have to travel as “live animal” cargo.

Most airlines allow birds to travel in the cabin if the carrier can fit under a seat. Usually, there is a limit of one carrier or 1 to 2 small birds per passenger in the cabin. Loud birds will not be allowed in the cabin and will have to go as “accompanied baggage” in the cargo hold.

Here are some more tips for traveling by air:

You may be required to remove your bird so its carrier can be inspected by the Transportation Security Administration. Make sure you have an avian harness; otherwise your bird may panic in the loud and bustling airport.
You will be required to have an airlines approved carrier. Before you make your reservations, check with the airline to make sure you will be able to transport your pets. Try to take a nonstop flight to reduce the stress.
Birds are not allowed to travel in the cabin on international flights.
Let your birds get used to its travel carrier before the trip. Also, include its favorite toys and treats for the trip. Anything that is familiar to the bird will make its trip less stressful.
Not all airlines accept birds and not all airlines that accept birds will take all birds. More planning on your part will lead to the least stressful trip for you and your bird.