Tips on Moving with Pets
Kyle Thomas Haley

If you're a pet owner and are planning to move to a new home,
remember that moving can be even more stressful for your animals
than it is for you. But there are several things you can do to
make it easier on your dog or cat.

Start your packing well ahead of time; it's not only easier on
you, but on your pets as well. During the time leading up to your
move, try to keep your pets' eating and exercise schedules as
normal as possible. Give them the same amount of attention and
affection as you always do.


Things to do before your move:

* Get copies of certificates, medical, and immunization records
from your veterinarian.

* Purchase identification tags with your new address.

* If you're planning to travel by air, schedule your flights
early and try to book a direct flight – this will be much
easier on your pet. You need to find out what the airline's
regulations are for transporting your pet. You will also
need to find out what kind of crate will be necessary to
contain your dog or cat.

* If you're driving and the trip will take more than one day,
be sure and check ahead and reserve motels that will accept
pets.

* Contact the state to which you're moving and find out the
regulations regarding animals. Some states require an entry
permit for pets.

* If your new home is nearby it's a good idea to take your pets
for a visit and let them become familiar with the neighborhood
and the new sights and smells. This is especially true of
dogs. Of course, keep the dog on a leash and the cat in a
carrier.


When Moving Day Finally Arrives . . .

All the confusion is certain to upset your pet so the best
solution is to have a friend or family member keep Fido or Fluffy
while the loading is being done. If that isn't an option, keep
your pet in a small room, perhaps a bathroom, along with
sufficient food, water (litter box for Fluffy) and some favorite
toys. Attach a "Do Not Enter" sign on the door so the pet is
secure and won't be accidentally set free.


You're on Your Way . . .

The packing and loading are all done and now it's time to head
for your new home. There are things you'll want to make sure are
packed for your pet. These include:

* The new identification tags.

* Medications and veterinarian records.

* Recent pictures of your pet in case it becomes lost.

* Litter box or scoop and plastic bags.

* Paper towels in case there are accidents.

* Leashes.

* Toys and treats.

* Food and water bowls.

* Can opener and cans that can be resealed.

* Regular food and water from the old house (enough for several
days). Different water can upset an animal's digestive tract
so it's a good idea to provide water from the old house for
the first few days after moving. This would not be a good
time to try a new brand of food either!


Your New Home ~ At Last . . .

When you finally arrive at your new home, let your pet explore
with your supervision. Then place Fido or Fluffy in a small room
with a crate or bed (and, of course a litter box for Fluffy)
while the unloading and unpacking are taking place. Make sure to
put some favorite toys in there and perhaps an old sweatshirt, or
something that smells familiar.

It's very important that you not let your pet outside alone
without a lead or tie for the first few days. Cats usually
require about a week but dogs adapt quicker. You don't want your
pet to wander away and get lost.

Your pet may be insecure and more prone to misbehaving during the
first few days in a new environment. Try to be patient and not
punish the initial misbehavior, instead, try to find ways to
reduce stress. Extra TLC can go a long way toward making pets
more comfortable. It's also a good idea to follow the usual
feeding and exercise schedule.

In closing, there are just a couple of things you should be aware
of to keep the moving experience as trouble-free as possible:

* If you intend to fly, be aware that puppies and kittens less
than 8 weeks old will not be transported.

* And finally, never move a sick animal ~ it could well make
his condition worse and endanger his health.

Enjoy your new home!




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Kyle Thomas Haley has been helping people relocate on the
Internet since 1999 with Apartment and Relocation Websites:

A Relocation and
Moving Guide

Copyright 1999 – 2005 STANZEEKAY Inc.