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Moving
with Pets
Moving
can be very stressful for your pets too. When it comes to moving
with pets, you'll have to plan ahead. Pets, just like us, are
very sensitive to changes. Moving companies will not move your
pets so if you plan to move with your pets, they will be your
responsibility. Here are some tips to make the relocation easier,
both for you and your pets:
Regular
routines
Keep
your pets' routines (feeding, exercise, and play-time) as regular
as possible. During the move itself, you may want to leave your
pet at a friend's house. That way you won't have to worry about
the pet getting in your way, or worse, running away.
Veterinarian
Before
the move, take your pet to the veterinarian for a thorough physical
exam. If your pet is on any medication, be sure that you have
enough for the first period of settling in your new home. Don't
forget to take with you copies of your pets' records; it'll make
things much easier for the new veterinarian at the new location.
To find a new veterinarian near your new home you can call the
American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) at (800) 883-6301.
States
laws
Since the laws and regulations regarding the importation of animals
defer from one another, check with a veterinarian in the new area
to be sure your pet complies. Make sure to check with a veterinarian
few weeks in advance since the process involves paperwork.
Moving
by plane
Try to book a direct flight to minimize the time the animal may
be sitting outside the plane in inclement weather conditions.
Some airlines provide counter-to-counter service so your pet will
be carried on and off the plane by an airline employee. This service
costs a little more, but it may be worth it for your pet's health
and your peace of mind.
In
the car
Avoid feeding or giving your pets water for several hours before
your drive. Try to be attentive to your pets' well-being. Make
a stop if you see that the pet is uncomfortable. Be ready to make
frequent stops for feeding and resting. Plan on feeding your pets
either once daily or a couple of small meals during rest stops.
Never leave your pets in the car alone. It is against the law.
but if you must, remember to open the windows and to lock the
doors. Do not leave your pet alone in the car for too long.
Moving
with Cats
Since cats tend to become more attached to their
environment rather than to people, the moving process will be
harder on them. When relocating with a cat, you must prepare in
advance. Show your cat plenty of attention and constantly reassure
it with familiar items and scents so the move does not come as
a shock.
Since cats are not familiar with traveling in cars
as dogs are try to take your cat on short trips around the neighborhood
and then slowly increase the distance.
If your cat is present during the move, confine it in its favorite
room along with its favorite bed and toys. That way you reduce
the chance of your cat running away or getting lost in one of
the boxes.
At the new home, provide your cat with a comfortable
living space. Limit the cats' explorations to just the new house
and then gradually accompany it on tours outside. Confining the
cat may seem a bit cruel, but cats are more likely to run back
to the old house, no matter the distance. It might take a month
till the cat feels comfortable in the new home and becomes familiar
with its scents and noises.
Moving
with Dogs
Unlike cats who prefer the routine, dogs may welcome
a change in the environment. In addition, dogs become more attached
to their owners as opposed to their environment. Therefore moving
with a dog is much easier than moving with a cat. Most likely, your
dog has become accustomed to riding in a car and being on a leash.
But it is recommended that you further condition your dog for longer
car rides. Drive with him around the neighborhood a few times.
Since dogs, just like cats, may become a bit upset on
moving day when they see all of the unusual activity, you should
confine the dog in its favorite room along with its favorite blanket
and toys.
After the move, take your dog for a walk immediately.
Help your dog become familiar with the new neighborhood. Let it
sniff around and mark its territory. Because dogs develop strong
relationships with their owners, they're less likely to run away.
In the new home - Provide a comfortable sleeping area for the dog
and try to keep a familiar routine of walks and meals. Dogs must
go outside everyday. Teach them their limits as far as streets and
traffic are concerned. If you are moving from suburbs to the city,
be prepared for a transition in housebreaking, your dog will have
to get used to relieving itself on the pavement and near fire hydrants
and poles.
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