Tips for Moving with Your Pet

When you decide to move with your pet, there are some important factors that you need to consider for making your pet less stressed during the move. While we know what is going on, your pet can become confused by the moving process. It may even fear abandonment when it is placed in a cage in a cargo hold of an airplane or when the movers are placing all your belongings in a huge van. During the moving process it will be a good idea to give your pet extra attention to help it deal with the stressors associated with moving.

When selling your home, there are some things to remember about your pet. While most people like to be greeted by a nice small dog or other pet, it may get in the way of your visitor, and it is best to keep the pet confined or outside for the rest of the visit. Some people, however, are allergic to cats and can be afraid of tarantulas, snakes and other furry creatures, so if your exotic pets are in an aquarium it is best to cover it up for the duration of the visit. You don�t want to scare a potential buyer, or have your cat rubbing up against their legs. Some large breeds of dogs can scare anyone, so it is best to keep large pets away from visitors who come to look over the house

Next-generation online moving applications help to organize your move, plus they allow you to look for new housing that is pet-friendly. In the segment for real estate facts, you key in what type of pet you have and your requirements for housing in your new location. This will help your realtor locate homes that are suitable for your type of pet. For instance, if you have a large breed of dog, buying a home with a fence already around the back yard would be preferable.

Don�t forget to bring your pet�s veterinary records with you, especially if you are moving out of state or across province boarders. If you are traveling by airline, have them where they can be accessed easily before preparing to board the plane. It is a good idea if you have an exotic pet to make sure it is okay to have that pet in the state or province you are moving into. Laws concerning pet ownership and locations can be easily accessed online. And excellent example is the fact that in some U.S. states it is perfectly legal to own a Quaker Parakeet, while in others it is against the law.

While your pet is in transport, it is essential to provide him or her with adequate food and water. When transporting via airline, be sure to call and find out how long the flight is expected to take, if there are any special regulations for transporting your specific pet, any fees associated with transporting your pet, whether or not you can keep your pet with you in the cabin, and the requirements associated with transporting them in the pressurized cargo hold. Some pets such as cats, small birds and small dogs can often travel with you, inside proper confinement, in the airline cabin. But be sure to bring your proof of vaccination and other health related information you may need. Larger animals, such as large breeds of dogs, must be placed in the cargo hold. Make certain that you provide a wet towel for hydration and, if permitted, some bits of food for sustenance, in case of a lengthy delay even if you were anticipating a short flight.

When traveling by automobile, it is best, whenever possible, to confine your pet to a carrier that you can safely strap to the seat with the safety belt. Also, plan to stop frequently to let your pet walk around, go potty, eat and drink. Rest stops are great for this. For overnight trips, some motels will not allow any sort of pet, while others welcome animals well versed in etiquette. Make these arrangements before you leave.

When traveling during the summer or winter, it is always safest if you ask your mechanic to look over your car�s heating and cooling system, to avoid malfunctions that could cause the cars temperature to raise or lower to atmospheric conditions. These temperature changes could prove fatal for your smaller pet, or even a large pet if exposed for extended periods. When exposed to colder temperatures, any pet can become ill. Be sure to warm your engine and let the passenger compartment warm up to room temperature before bringing your pet into the car.

Don�t forget to add to your moving check list a leash, food and water bowl, food, bedding, and your pet�s favorite toys. Have them readily available so you can access them during your trip if traveling by car or as soon as you unpack if flying. Don�t forget your pet's medication if any is required; make sure it is available throughout your journey. If traveling by airplane, pack these items in your carry-on luggage, so you have them as soon as you arrive at your destination.

About the Author: Richard Holley, President and Owner of Summit PM Services, a resident of Stony Plain, AB., knows the chaos associated with poorly planned relocations. Having survived several high-stress relocations, he saw the need for people who are in the process of moving to gain access to better information to assist in relocations. Holley developed an Online Custom Moving Plan Service after considerable research and development. Now online, you can obtain help for your move at Planning-Your-Move.com (http://www.planning-your-move.com). Holley, an animal enthusiast, understands the stress a pet can undergo during relocation. He can be contacted through his website's contact form.