Published Date: February 4, 2025
You never know the true loyalty of a pet until you move with them.
Moving to Florida with your furry friends can feel like an adventure in itself, right?
The Sunshine State is calling, but you’re probably wondering, “How on earth do I move to Florida with pets and make it a smooth ride for both of us?”
Well, you’re not alone!
A recent survey revealed that nearly 70% of pet owners consider their pets family members. So it makes total sense to bring them along for the move, but it also comes with its own set of challenges.
Here’s the good news: Florida is one of the most pet-friendly states in the U.S. (Yup, you read that right!), and about 40% of homes in Florida are rented with pet-friendly policies.
That means there are plenty of options for you and your pets to live happily ever after in the sunshine.
But there’s more you need to know before packing up your pet’s toys and hitting the road.
The regulations for moving pets to Florida are pretty specific, and the last thing you want is to encounter surprises during the move.
There are steps to follow, from Florida pet import requirements to finding a new home that allows your pet to run free.
This guide covers everything you need to know to ensure that your move to Florida with pets goes smoothly.
And yes, we’ll also discuss how to find pet-friendly moving companies and even the best pet relocation services to help you settle your pets in.
Before you pack your bags (or pet’s toys), you should be familiar with Florida’s pet import requirements.
Florida’s got some rules in place to make sure your pets don’t bring in any unwanted diseases.
For example, all dogs and cats must have proof of rabies vaccination and be at least four months old.
Yes, even your cute little puppy or kitten has to be up to date with their shots!
Make sure you have a health certificate from your vet stating your pet is healthy and free of diseases.
That certificate must be issued within 30 days before you move. So, set a reminder to do so!
Not all moving companies are pet-friendly, so you’ll want to find one that specializes in handling pets.
There are several pet-friendly moving services in Florida that can help get your pets safely to their new home.
Companies like Midland Van Lines are known for their experience with pet relocations (check out what people are saying about them in Midland Van Lines – What Customers Are Saying in 2025).
Moving is stressful enough without having to worry about whether your pet is in good hands, so go for a company that knows the ropes.
You have two options: flying or driving.
If you’re flying, make sure to check out the airline’s pet policy.
Some airlines are more pet-friendly than others. Be prepared for extra charges, and definitely get a travel carrier that’s comfy and secure for your pet.
If you’re driving, take your time! You’re not in a race. Stop every few hours to let your pet stretch their legs and hydrate.
Florida might be a long drive, depending on where you’re coming from, so planning pit stops is key.
Once you’re in Florida, make sure to update your pet’s ID tags and microchip info.
It’s a simple step that can save you a lot of headaches later.
You don’t want to be in a new place with your pet missing and have the old address on their tag.
Always have your current contact info on them, especially if your pet gets lost in the excitement of a new place.
Finding a place to live in Florida is a whole other adventure.
Luckily, Florida’s full of pet-friendly apartments and homes, but you’ve got to do your homework.
Some places might have breed restrictions or charge extra pet fees, so don’t get caught off guard. It’s best to call ahead and double-check the pet policies before you sign a lease.
Also, make sure the area has enough space for your pet to roam and play. You want a safe environment where they can stretch their paws and enjoy their new surroundings.
Florida is hot—like, really hot. If your pet is coming from a cooler climate, it might not be used to the high temperatures and humidity.
Give them some time to acclimate to the new environment. Take it slow and ensure they’re drinking enough water.
Plus, Florida’s intense sun can be tough on their paws, so watch out for hot pavement!
Now, here’s something you might not have thought about: pet insurance.
If you’ve just moved to Florida, you may want to consider it.
You’re probably thinking, “Do I really need it?”
Well, the answer is: it depends.
If your pet’s older or has health conditions, it might be a good idea to have some extra peace of mind. Research different plans and see what fits best for your pet’s needs.
Finding a local vet should be on your to-do list as soon as you arrive.
You never know when your pet might need emergency care or just a routine check-up.
Some vet clinics in Florida offer wellness plans to keep your pet healthy year-round.
So, make sure you do some research and get your pet’s new healthcare provider lined up.
Here’s a little checklist to keep your pet’s needs organized during the move:
A checklist like this can make a huge difference. Trust me, you don’t want to be scrambling at the last minute.
Here’s a little curveball. Florida pet quarantine laws can sometimes come into play, depending on where you’re moving from.
If your pet has been to a high-risk area for certain diseases, they might need to go through quarantine.
But don’t stress too much—this usually only applies to pets coming from certain international locations. Still, it’s something to keep in mind!
Once you’re settled, Florida has plenty of places to let your pet stretch out.
There are tons of pet-friendly parks, dog beaches, and even restaurants with outdoor seating that welcome pets.
So, after all the moving madness, take some time to enjoy the sunshine together.
No, you don’t need a special pet passport to move to Florida, but your pet will need a health certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian within 30 days of travel. It confirms that your pet is in good health and free from contagious diseases.
Yes, certain counties or housing complexes in Florida may have breed restrictions. Breed-specific legislation bans or limits certain breeds, such as pit bulls, Rottweilers, and Doberman Pinschers.
To find pet-friendly apartments in Florida, use online resources like Zillow, Apartments.com, or Rent.com. Filter for pet-friendly options and contact property managers directly to ask about their pet policies, size restrictions, and extra fees.
Yes, many airlines allow small pets to travel with you in the cabin, provided they fit in a carrier under the seat in front of you. Make sure to check the specific airline’s pet policy regarding fees, carrier size requirements, and pet travel restrictions, especially if you’re flying to Florida from abroad.
If your pet gets lost after moving to Florida, contact local shelters, animal control, and veterinary clinics immediately. You can also post on local pet-finding websites and social media groups dedicated to lost pets in Florida, such as Lost Pet USA or Petco’s Lost & Found.
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