🐾 Moving Long-Distance to NWA with Pets?
Cross-country moves are a lot—adding pets can feel like a whole operation. Here’s a simple plan to make the road trip smoother and sleep easy each night. 1) Book pet-friendly hotels the smart way - On Hotels.com: Search your route city (e.g., “Amarillo, TX”), then apply Filters → Amenities → Pet friendly. - Add Free parking, Breakfast included, and Pay at property if helpful. - Use Map view to stay right off the interstate and near green space. - Call to confirm the details before you book: Backup tools: BringFido (hotel + park database), Google Maps (“pet-friendly hotel”), and VRBO/Airbnb with pet filters for longer stays. 2) Plan your overnights by mileage (no hero driving) - Aim for 5–7 driving hours/day so pets can decompress. - Pre-book every stop along your route (weather and events can sell out rooms). - Save hotel addresses in your phone/GPS and share with your co-pilot. 3) Pack a “Pet Go-Bag” - Food (plus 2–3 extra days), collapsible bowls, treats - Meds, vet records, vaccine proof, microchip info - Leashes/harnesses, current ID tags - Litter box/litter & scoop (cats), waste bags - Familiar bed/blanket + 1–2 toys (reduces anxiety) - Old towels/puppy pads (hotel room “entry mat” & car crate liner) 4) Car setup & safety - Crate or secured harness—prevents sudden door dashes. - Seat a pet away from airbags and never ride in the open truck bed. - Keep water accessible; plan 10–15-min rest stops every 2–3 hours. - Never leave pets in a parked car (heat risk year-round). 5) Hotel room routine (first 15 minutes) - Do a quick room sweep (loose pills, cords, balcony gaps). - Set up a quiet corner with bed, water, and a chew/toy. - Use a white-noise app to soften hallway sounds. - If you step out, use “Do Not Disturb” and a crate; many hotels don’t allow unattended pets. 6) First days in NWA - Keep routine: same feeding/walk times as the road. - Update pet license, microchip address, and find your new local vet. - Explore Lake Atalanta paths, Razorback Greenway segments, Coler’s paved paths for easy first walks.