Moving - Taking Pets Along For The Ride

Whether you are moving across the city or across the country, many families now have extra members to take into consideration. Dogs, cats, birds, reptiles and even fish can be difficult to move unless you think about it before hand and plan carefully.

Routine is very important to animals. Dogs and cats are especially susceptible to changes in their daily routine. Make sure you keep things around the house as consistent as possible right up until the day you lock up for the last time. Take your dog for her regular walk. Keep the kitty litter in the same place. Mealtimes should be maintained and exercise should be along usual routes. Consistency is key to keeping your pet抯 nervousness at bay. He or she will be content even as boxes pile up around them.

When you finally hit the road with your pet, try to keep that consistency in their routine. Feed them the same food to avoid nausea or diarrhea when new treats are introduced. Stop regularly so they can stretch their legs and go to the bathroom. Try to keep a familiar pattern even if you have to drive long hours across the country.

Speaking of long hours across the country, driving may not be the ideal option. The choice that is best for your dog, cat, bird, or reptile is the one that will upset them the least. If your dog is used to flying or small enough to accompany you in the cabin, then maybe air travel is most efficient. However, if your cat is very nervous in a kennel for extended periods, driving may be more ideal. These are important considerations to keep in mind for especially long moving trips such as overseas.

If you do decide to drive, your cat should be kept in her carrier at all times. Dogs may be housed in a kennel or restrained to the back seat with pet bars blocking the cargo area from seating space. Never leave your pet unattended in a vehicle and stop frequently to allow your pet to relieve themselves.

If you decide to fly with your pet, you will need to contact the airline to make arrangements with as much advance notice as possible. Many airlines restrict the number of pets they carry and this is especially true of large dogs. They may also charge an additional handling fee or not allow pets at all. These factors are important to work out before you complete your moving plans.

Other things to keep in mind when moving with a pet are to make sure their medial records are up-to-date and you have a copy of them with you. It is a good idea to visit your vet within a month or so of your departure date so that they can provide you with an up-to-date health certificate. This certificate may be required by some airlines or countries.