Moving
to a new home can be stressful on your pets, but there are many
things you can do to make the process as painless as possible.
Experts at The
Pet Realty Network
in Naples, Fla., offer these helpful tips for easing the transition
and keeping pets safe during the move.
Update your pet’s tag
Make sure your pet is wearing a sturdy collar with an identification
tag that is labeled with your current contact information. The tag
should include your destination location, telephone number, and cell
phone number so that you can be reached immediately during the move.
Ask for veterinary records
If you’re moving far enough away that you’ll need a new vet, you
should ask for a current copy of your pet’s vaccinations. You also
can ask for your pet’s medical history to give to your new vet,
although that can normally be faxed directly to the new medical-care
provider upon request. Depending on your destination, your pet may
need additional vaccinations, medications, and health certificates.
Have your current vet's phone number handy in case of an emergency,
or in case your new vet would like more information about your pet.
Keep medications and food on hand
Keep at least one week’s worth of food and medication with you in
case of an emergency. Vets can’t write a prescription without a
prior doctor/patient relationship, which can cause delays if you need
medication right away. You may want to ask for an extra prescription
refill before you move. The same preparation should be taken with
special therapeutic foods — purchase an extra supply in case you
can't find the food right away in your new area.
Seclude your pet from chaos
Pets can feel vulnerable on moving day. Keep them in a safe, quiet,
well-ventilated place, such as the bathroom, on moving day with a “Do
Not Disturb! Pets Inside!” sign posted on the door. There are many
light, collapsible travel crates on the market if you choose to buy
one. However, make sure your pet is familiar with the new crate
before moving day by gradually introducing him or her to the crate
before your trip. Be sure the crate is well-ventilated and sturdy
enough for stress-chewers; otherwise, a nervous pet could escape.
Prepare a first aid kit
First aid is not a substitute for emergency veterinary care, but
being prepared and knowing basic first aid could save your pet's
life. A few recommended supplies: Your veterinarian's phone number,
gauze to wrap wounds or to muzzle your pet, adhesive tape for
bandages, non-stick bandages, towels, and hydrogen peroxide (3
percent). You can use a door, board, blanket or floor mat as an
emergency stretcher and a soft cloth, rope, necktie, leash, or nylon
stocking for an emergency muzzle.
Play it safe in the car
It’s best to travel with your dog in a crate; second-best is to use
a restraining harness. When it comes to cats, it’s always best for
their safety and yours to use a well-ventilated carrier in the car.
Secure the crate or carrier with a seat belt and provide your pet
with familiar toys. Never keep your pet in the open bed of a truck or
the storage area of a moving van. In any season, a pet left alone in
a parked vehicle is vulnerable to injury and theft. If you’ll be
using overnight lodging, plan ahead by searching for pet-friendly
hotels. Have plenty of kitty litter and plastic bags on hand, and
keep your pet on its regular diet and eating schedule.
Get ready for takeoff
When traveling by air,check with the airline about any pet
requirements or restrictions to be sure you’ve prepared your pet
for a safe trip. Some airlines will allow pets in the cabin,
depending on the animal’s size, but you’ll need to purchase a
special airline crate that fits under the seat in front of you. Give
yourself plenty of time to work out any arrangements necessary
including consulting with your veterinarian and the U.S.
Department of Agriculture.
If traveling is stressful for your pet, consult your veterinarian
about ways that might lessen the stress of travel.
Find a new veterinary clinic and emergency hospital
Before you move, ask your vet to recommend a doctor in your new
locale. Talk to other pet owners when visiting the new community, and
call the state veterinary medical association (VMA) for veterinarians
in your location. When choosing a new veterinary hospital, ask for an
impromptu tour; kennels should be kept clean at all times, not just
when a client’s expected. You may also want to schedule an
appointment to meet the vets. Now ask yourself: Are the
receptionists, doctors, technicians, and assistants friendly,
professional and knowledgeable? Are the office hours and location
convenient? Does the clinic offer emergency or specialty services or
boarding? If the hospital doesn't meet your criteria, keep looking
until you’re assured that your pet will receive the best possible
care.
Prep your new home for pets
Pets may be frightened and confused in new surroundings. Upon your
arrival at your new home, immediately set out all the familiar and
necessary things your pet will need: food, water, medications, bed,
litter box, toys, etc. Pack these items in a handy spot so they can
be unpacked right away. Keep all external windows and doors closed
when your pet is unsupervised, and be cautious of narrow gaps behind
or between appliances where nervous pets may try to hide. If your old
home is nearby, your pet may try to find a way back there. To be
safe, give the new home owners or your former neighbors your phone
number and a photo of your pet, and ask them to contact you if your
pet is found nearby.
Learn more about your new area
Once you find a new veterinarian, ask if there are any local health
concerns such as heartworm or Lyme disease, or any vaccinations or
medications your pet may require. Also, be aware of any unique laws.
For example, there are restrictive breed laws in some cities.
Homeowner associations also may have restrictions — perhaps
requiring that all dogs are kept on leashes. If you will be moving to
a new country, carry an updated rabies vaccination and health
certificate. It is very important to contact the Agriculture
Department or embassy of the country or state to which you’re
traveling to obtain specific information on special documents,
quarantine, or costs to bring the animal into the country.
Source:
The
Pet Realty Network