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There's a simple key to success for moving your pets: stick to routine.
Even as things for you get hectic, if you usually walk your dog in the morning, continue doing so. If your cat always eats at the same time, stick to it. Habits are very important to maintain the closer you get to the moving date, as well as during the move and especially in the first few days after you move into your new home.
Some other advice:
* Keep windows and doors shut during the days of the move so your pet doesn't run away - pets are majorly stressed after a move.
* Get someone to care for your pet during your move. You can also hire an animal transport service that picks up your pet a few days prior to the move and delivers it to your new home on a date determined by you.
* Contact your local veterinarian to obtain all of your pet's medical records prior to the move and verify these records are up-to-date.
* Keep your pets out of the movers' way; if they get it in the way, the movers could hurt themselves (not to mention the pets).
Cats
The following are tips to help you and your cat prepare for the road ahead:
* Cats enjoy being in control so when they sense their environment is being disrupted, such as during a move, they may act up. Keep your cat's routine as similar as possible. You might want to hand them over to a friend or relative for a short period of time so they are not amid the chaos.
* After you move, schedule supervised outings for your cat by taking them for a stroll around your backyard or neighborhood.
* Close all the windows and doors in the house so that your cat may feel free to roam the rooms in your new home and become familiar with its new environment.
* Feed your cat at its regular hours and attempt to use its old bowls or dishes.
Dogs
The following are tips to help make traveling with your dog an enjoyable experience:
* Give your dog time to adjust to traveling, especially if it's his first time. Take your dog along for short rides such as a trip to the store, picking up the kids from school or just a quick drive around the neighborhood.
* Plan ahead. If you are flying, reserve a space for your pet at least 3-4 months prior because flights have limits on how many pets they are permitted to carry. If you are driving, make sure your dog has somewhere to sleep at nights -- you don't want to begin searching for a pet friendly motel/hotel after a long day's drive.
* Your dog will be most comfortable with his personal items. Feed your dog the same food and surround him with familiar toys or items.
Flying With Your Pets
* If you are flying, book a direct flight in advance and contact the airline as to what their requirements are for traveling with pets. Also inquire about additional fees for bringing pets on board.
* If flying, plan a visit to your veterinarian at least one month prior to the flight to ensure your pet is in good health before the flight.
* Booking a flight in advance will save you the hassle of searching for a pet friendly airline close to your move day.
Pet Carriers
* Pet carriers come in all sizes and shapes and qualities. To ensure your pet has a positive traveling experience, take them with you when shopping for a pet carrier. They are the best judges of what is a perfect fit. This list is designed to help you identify what is important to look for when purchasing a carrier:
* Set a price range. Decide how much you can spare from your budget. Pet carriers usually range widely in price, depending on your pets size and needs.
* Hard or soft.If traveling by air, a hard crate is most likely necessary. However, if you travel by car with a smaller dog or cat consider a soft carrier.
* Safety first. Consider if a carrier will safely transport your pet from place to place. Ask a pet expert for advice about what type of carrier is appropriate for your travel method.
* Comfort. Does your pet have room to turn around or stand up in its carrier? Does it provide insulation to keep it at a constant temperature? These are all questions to ask when considering how comfortable a carrier really is.
Packing a Doggy Bag
Just like you, your pet has stuff to bring. Here is a list of items your pet should not forget to bring along to his or her new home: