7 Moving Tips for Dog and Cat Parents

It’s that time of year…peak moving season, that is! Planning for a move is a big task, and DogTails is here to help! Whether you’re moving to an apartment down the street or relocating across the country, read our tips to help prepare your pets for the big day. Follow this advice to help make this transition as smooth as possible for your precious pup, and for your faithful feline, too!

Before the Move
1) Pack Up Your Home Gradually
When it comes to boxing up all your things, take your time…your pet will appreciate it. Too much change can be overwhelming for dogs and cats. Keep up all of your regular routines (walking, feeding, play time) as well as you can to help ease the stress. And pack up your pets’s things last, and make sure they will be easy to find when you’re ready to start unpacking in your new home.

2) Local Distance Move? Do Your Research.
If you’re moving across the country or internationally, plan ahead when it comes to traveling with your pets. If you’ll be flying with your cat or small dog, check with your airline regarding appropriate carriers, size restrictions and other policies. If your pet will be flying cargo, check with your airline about certain breed restrictions and extreme temperature-related travel restrictions.

If you are planning a long drive with your animals, be sure to add plenty of extra time in your itinerary for bathroom breaks and opportunities for people and animals to stretch their legs. If travel makes your pet especially anxious, talk to your veterinarian about medication options.

Lastly, take time before the move to familiarize yourself with the pet laws, registration requirements and other local regulations. Check to see if your new town, city, state, etc. will require health certifications, vaccinations and registrations for your pets. If any or all of these are required, talk to your vet ahead of time to make sure all the paperwork is in order come move day.

3) Schedule a Pet Sitter or Doggie Day Care
Moving Day is a busy, often chaotic experience. Open doors, heavy furniture, moving trucks – all these things and more can be risky for pets. Bringing your dog to a local doggie day care for the day can help keep him safe and away from move-day stress. Another option for dog and cat parents would be to arrange for friends or family to look after your pets, or to hire a pet sitter who can take care of your pets in their home. They’ll get to enjoy some extra attention, and you’ll appreciate the peace of mind in knowing that they’re safe.

To read more on this story, click here: 7 Moving Tips for Dog and Cat Parents

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