How To Make Moving With Pets Easy

Moving is clearly among the most stressful changes in life for us humans. Imagine what pets are thinking when 'home sweet home' is packed up and hauled off, only to reappear on strange new turf! "The environmental changes, alterations in social structure and variation in routines can be very disconcerting for your pet," explains veterinary behavior expert E'Lise Christensen, at NYC Veterinary Specialists in Manhattan. "All these changes can make a pet feel insecure and anxious".

So during this hectic time, be careful not to overlook the needs of your furry, finned and feathered friends. Planning is key in for a smooth transition.

Before the move Begin packing well in advance so your pet becomes accustomed to changes in their environment.

"If your routine will alter after the move, gradually alter it before the move," urges Christensen.

Therefore, change play times and walk times a bit. If your move will take you from an urban environment to a suburban or rural one (or vise versa) introduce your pet to new environs and assess their response.

If you have concerns about how your pet might react to these changes, Christensen suggests consulting with a veterinary behaviorist to develop a treatment plan for your pet.

As soon as you know your new address, purchase new identification tags for each pet. If your pet is microchipped, call the microchip manufacturer to update the database with your new contact information.

Moving Day & Travel Be sure your dog or cat is wearing their collar with new ID tags on moving day. When the movers arrive, secure pets in a quiet room, away from the main traffic areas to prevent them from escaping. Be sure to alert each mover and family member that the room is off limits.

Time to hit the road? Whether transporting your pet by plane, train or automobile, talk to your veterinarian for advice on how your pet can make the trip most comfortably. For air travel, allow ample time to make arrangements and meet all air travel guidelines.

Settling In While you and your family may be excited about your new habitat, your pet may feel confused or disoriented and will take some time to adjust to their new surroundings. Be patient and offer lots of love and affection to soothe their nerves.

Christensen recommends purchasing pheromone diffusers -- often helpful in calming both dogs and cats. The diffusers are available at most pet supply stores.

Cats: For the first few days, your cats will benefit from being confined to a single room while you organize the rest of your home. Unpack their bedding, toys, food and water dish and litter box and consider a window perch for them to enjoy the new view. After a few days, introduce cats to one new room at a time, always reminding them where the litter box is located.

Dogs: Ideally, introduce dogs to a new home when furniture is in place. Let them become familiar with one room before introducing to another. This can take a few days, but will ease your dogs' nerves and prevent a frightened escape. And when taking your pet outdoors, keep him or her on a leash.

Choose a new veterinarian for your pet as soon as possible! Talk to neighbors or contact the local veterinary association for help. Also, find the nearest emergency veterinary hospital and take a practice drive to find it so you don't waste precious time in a crisis.

With your love and assurance, your pet will soon adjust to your new abode. After all, for pets, home is where you are!

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