1. Prepare an Overnight Kit
Create an easily-accessible overnight kit filled with dog food, kitty litter, toys, treats and grooming tools to ensure your pet is comfortable during the first couple of days of unpacking. Speaking of preparations, you may also want to take a few test drives with your pet before the actual move, especially if your pet is skittish and nervous about change. If they are not used to traveling by car, take them out for short car rides prior to the big move. Buy a pet carrier if you don’t already have one, to make sure your pet is comfortable and safe. Bring along their favorite chew toy or other comfort item to ensure a smooth transition.
2. Contact Your Vet
If you are making a move out of the local area, let the vet know so you can take their records with you as well as any prescription medications. Ask your current vet if they can recommend another veterinarian in your new town. You will need:- Health Records, including a copy of your pet’s up-to-date inoculation records.
- Health Certificate: This is a certificate issued by your existing licensed veterinarian showing your pet is in good general health.
- Permit: Got an exotic pet? You will need a new a permit from the city or state you are moving to.
3. Keep Your Pets Safely Away from the Action
The best way you can reduce stress on your pet is to keep them in a quiet area while all the hustle and bustle is going on. Better yet, have a friend watch them or keep them in a kennel for the day. If you can’t, empty a bedroom and close the door, or put them in their carrier in the garage. Check on them regularly, and keep up with their feedings and walks. This will give them a sense of routine.4. Take Your Pet With You
Take the pet with you in your own vehicle when headed to the new house. Place cats and small dogs in a carrier in the back seat, securing it with a seatbelt. Larger dogs can be moved in a kennel in the back of your car. Put down the seats if need be. If you have a particularly sensitive animal, throw a blanket over their carrier for the car ride so they don’t have to see the changing environment outside.5. Keep Your Pet Secure at First
Don’t let your pet out of the car until you’re sure you can get them safely inside. They could easily take off and get lost. You may want to keep them inside for a few days so they can get acclimated. Confine them to one section of your house so they can slowly adjust to their new surroundings. Give them plenty of attention and introduce familiar objects to them such as blankets and toys.
6. Update Their Information
Update your pet’s tags or microchip information to reflect the new address and phone number. Get this done before moving in case they run off in your new neighborhood.7. Research Pet Laws and Regulations
Visit your state’s agricultural or veterinary office websites to get the latest info on special permits for animals like monkeys, iguanas, big cats and exotic animals. Call the City Clerk’s office to ask about local ordinances pertaining to licensed and leash laws. Call your apartment or condo association to become apprised of any rules regarding pets on the property. Remember: just like humans, animals can take a while to get adjusted to their new surroundings. Do what you can to make it as easy and painless for them as possible by being prepared and treating them with extra TLC during this time.
Contact Moving Proz
Here at Moving Proz, we are sensitive to moves that involve pets. To learn more, or to get a free quote, contact us in Overland Park, Lawrence, Kansas City or Denver. We can accommodate any move that involves animals, provided they are contained during the loading/unloading process for everyone’s safety.