Moving with pets

Be sure to track down all of the items that your pet will need to make them feel safe and secure and pack them in a place where they can be easily reached. Pack your pet’s toys, food, and medication away in boxes where they cannot easily be reached and placing them on the moving truck. Keep a backpack or duffel bag handy, so that you can provide them with the items they need immediately, without having to dig through umpteen boxes.

While your routine on the day of the move will be far from normal, this does not mean that your pet should suffer a similar fate. On the day of the move, do your absolute best not to disrupt the routine of your animals too drastically. Your pet is going to notice when you try to pull an all-night packing session or when you are running around like a chicken with your head cut off, getting everything ready. Plan ahead, so that you do not have to frighten your pets.

For those are who moving cross country or over long distances. Bringing their pets with them may not be an option those who are moving over shorter distances. They should bring their pet along for the ride if possible. Seeing a familiar face helps them to navigate an unfamiliar situation and you can even take them on short drives before moving day, as a dry run of sorts.

When moving to a new area, it is best to find a new vet for your pet before moving day. If you’re keeping the same vet, then be sure to speak to them about ways to modify the animal’s behavior that will make for an easier move. Moving further away? Ask your current vet if they have any recommendations for finding a new one in the region you’re heading to.

Expecting the best and preparing for the worst is always important during a move and your pets are no different. Health issues have a way of cropping up at the least opportune times, so have a copy of the animal’s medical records handy, know where the closest emergency animal hospitals are located and have their phone numbers at the ready.