It’s always hard getting everything organized for a move whether it’s across the street, across town or across the country. One thing to remember is how will the move affect your pet(s). Here are some tips to help things run a little smoother.

·         Prepare an overnight kit

o   Enough food for a few days or the length of the move

o   Toys

o   Collar, harness, leash

o   Kitty litter and box

·         For cats: pull out the cat carrier a few days before the big day to prepare kitty for the move

o   It’s also a good idea to familiarize kitty for car travel.  Take her on car rides starting with short 10 minute rides and slowly increasing to longer ones

·         For dogs: consider taking them to the new neighborhood to familiarize them with the area

·         Don’t isolate your pets while packing.

o   Allow them to investigate while you pack and move boxes

o   Keeping them isolated might lead to nervousness and anxiety which could turn into stress related activities like barking, jumping or hyperactivity

·         If possible, take your pets somewhere else during the actual move to minimize stress for them while the movers are there and coming in and out

o   This will also help avoid them from escaping out open doors

·         It’s best to put kitty in her own space at the new place in the beginning

o   Include food, toys, scratching post and litter box

o   It can be her own private refuge while adjusting to the new place

·         After everything is moved in and the movers have left, give your dog a tour of the new place

o   It’s a good idea to keep fido on a leash for the initial walk-through

o   If possible spend a few days with him before returning to work to help with the adjustment period

·         Make sure to update your vet with new information

o   If you need to find a new vet, it’s a good idea to ask your new neighbors

o   Also update their microchip information

o   Get new tags with your new information