Under the simplest terms, moving is a hassle. Anything can go wrong and, even on the rare occasion in which everything comes off without a hitch, it can still be a tedious and grueling process. Moving can be further complicated when you have a nervous and restless pet with which you must also contend. Wouldn’t it be nice if there were some tips and tricks to help make this part of the move go smoothly?
1. Prepare to Prevent A Lost Pet
Even before the big day, there are things you can do to safeguard your pet. Moving can create a situation in which a pet can easily get lost or forgotten or can run off at the worst time. By making sure his or her I.D. tags are up to date, you can increase the possibility of having your pet returned to you unharmed. Also, consider adding your phone number on the I.D. tag to make it easier to be reached. Today, many pet owners consider microchipping their pets to ensure they can find them if they get lost. Whether you’re moving across town or the country, this may be a sensible precaution.
2. Make Sure YourPup Is Legal
Before committing to a move, it may be a good idea to contact the animal control office in the city of your intended destination. Some areas have breed restrictive legislation, so you will want to ensure your pet will be welcome in your new community.
3. Does Your Pet Sufferfrom Motion Sickness?
If so, you can take steps to ensure he or she doesn’t get nauseous during the ride. First, you may want to consult your veterinarian about prescribing medication to prevent motion sickness. Another suggestion is to crate the animal and lay a blanket over the crate. Blocking the pet’s view can prevent nausea from setting in. Just be sure to leave an opening for ventilation.
4. Make Sure You Have Accommodationsfor Your Pet
If you’re moving long distance and need a hotel room for the night, it’s a good idea to call ahead. Even hotels that claim to be pet-friendly can have size limitations or may only have a specific number of rooms designated for pets. Checking ahead of time will help you avoid having to hunt around at the last minute, when everyone, including your pet, is tired, restless, and hungry.
5. Inspect Your New Home
You may want to crawl around on the floor for this. Seriously. You’ll want to get the view your pets will get, so you can identify problem areas before letting the animals run free. Check for holes in the walls and small crevices, broken windows, chemicals in the water or spills in corners, or any other condition that could pose a threat to your pet’s safety.
These are just a few ideas to help you move more confidently with your beloved pets. It’s a stressful enough time without the added tension a sudden pet emergency can create. Taking the time to prepare them for the move can reduce anxiety and turmoil for you and your pets.
