Moving with Pets

Below are some tips compiled from a variety of sources and surveys conducted as well as some references on how to better move with your pets. This is very lengthy so here’s a map to this information. First paragraph discusses how moving affects your pets. Second paragraph discusses what mistakes are typical during a move. Third discusses what the average pet owner faces during a move, specifically when and how often. Fourth discusses obstacles in moving. The following four sections will discuss some tips and suggestions on what to do before a move, during the actual move (moving day), what to do when you have arrived in the new home and some resources of pet friendly housing, moving, pet relocation, airline info and more.

Moving is extremely stressful, fearful and emotional for pets according to professionals in the field of pet care and landlords. Animal Communicators, Nutritionists, Pet Care providers, trainers, behaviorists, veterinarian, and animal shelter advocates all agree that moving is one few most stressful events for not just humans but pets as well. Most people like to move in one day, from packing to moving to unpacking. In the process of doing this we accidentally leave doors open and add stress to the pets. Stress manifests itself in behavioral and emotional issues in pets which could lead to training issues. Pets are more likely to escape if given an opportunity if they see their environment or routine changing. They experience fears of being left behind, fears of where going? There physical body may have increased heart rate or blood pressure. They may pant and need more water. The most common adverse affect is fear that they are in harms way with all the scary noises and smells. Emotionally they become stressed from the change in routine/environment. Physically they can become dehydrated, over excited, nervous etc Psychologically they are unsure of what the future will bring, what will happen to them. Animals who have been abandoned in the past may drum up all of those anxieties from the past. If pets are used to traveling, even if it's just to the dog park or a training class, they adjust easily. Well socialized pets have learned that they can handle new experiences, even if they haven't handled a particular experience in the past. Socializing teaches them that they can handle anything that comes their way, not just the new stimulus. Pets that are not socialized who never go out of their own yards or homes experience fear and anxiety due to new surroundings. They do not predict that their owners are going to leave them that are a human trait. They simply realize that their life pattern has changed. Pets who are prepared for changing circumstances and routines from the time they are puppies adjust easily.

Pet owners make many mistakes when it comes to moving. Some of the biggest have to do with planning ahead both in the search and having an available budget, being prepared and not securing a place to move into before settling on moving out of the old one. Other mistakes are:
· Not factoring in your pets needs with a move.
· Not having adequate emergency pet supplies prior to moving.
· Not practicing common sense in general.
· Not acclimating pets to new places or traveling in the car beforehand.
· Not having appropriate and accurate identification.
· Not utilizing a veterinarian for advice on a move or a service provider for a temporary home, communication with pets or addressing training issues and behaviors associated with moving.
· Not including pets in your moving plans.
· Not taking the extra time to reassure their pet.
· Not properly securing their animals during travel to prevent escapes.
· Being so stressed out themselves that the worry and distress transfers to their animals.
· Planning ahead ensures that your pets’ needs are met and not forgotten.
· Being careless with open doors.
· Not keeping dog records (health, vaccinations, registrations, etc.) easily available during the move.
· Securing the wrong home, especially in the case of pet owners who decide to rent – they decide to opt with a no pets rental or didn’t secure a signed pets ok written (not verbal) contract from the new landlord securing their pet as a tenant.

More than half of pet owners asked how often they have been faced with the tasks uprooting their home environment and relocating to another home in the past 2 years said more than twice. 33% specifically said they had to move as much as 5 times in that period. This tells us that pet owners often face moving every year more often than should be. More than half of pet owners agree that the best time of year in San Diego to move is in the Spring and the Fall. This tends to be the time of year when most rentals are available for pets, when landlords are most likely to rent to pet owners, when the climate is perfect for a move and when is most best climate to move an animal in. Summertime may be too hot for pets. Winter time is terribly cold or wet and may not be convenient when loading up a moving truck needs to occur. Spring and Fall seem to have moderate temperatures to move and is a good time to introduce pets to new homely and garden-like smells. Many pet owners also noticed that keeping in mind school schedules, flea seasons, holiday travel periods and moving trends also will complicate when the best of year is to move. A small percentage of pet owners mentioned that there is a small window of opportunity when rentals are most available shortly after the Holidays are over when people are back into their offices and when the weather is reasonable as well.

There are many obstacles pet owners need to be aware of when moving. The following are just a short list. Taking the tips and suggestions of others with regards to finding pet friendly housing (for rent or own) and what to do when moving should plow your road of most or all of these obstacles, making your journey to your destination as smooth as possible.
· Climate and environmental conditions – Moving in a rainstorm is, well, a bad idea
· Stress, fear and anxiety – both of the human and animal variety
· Communication Issues with the animals – pet care is tough work but just because you move doesn’t mean you sacrifice you and your pets’ relationship!
· Disruption of normal pet routine
· Safety – Moving can be hazardous, heavy things, open doors, traveling with stuff, unpacking, physical labor – it also can pose a risk. But you can practice safety and avoid some of those hazardous mistakes!
· Money – face it, moves and pets aren’t cheap but don’t have to break the bank if you plan ahead and budget wisely!
· Time – face it, moves take time and your job, home life, the amount of stuff you have, who you live with and what pets you can all complicate how quickly things can happen but you can make time and avoid those last minute mistakes!
· Emergencies – are you sure you can safely react for your pet in an emergency during a move?
· Legal ramifications – are you sure your pet is allowed where you are going?

BEFORE MOVING WITH PETS

If you’re a pet owner and are planning to move to a new home, remember that moving can be even more stressful for your animals than it is for you. But there are several things you can do to make it easier on your dog or cat long before you actually start your move. Here are some things you can do even weeks or months in advance:

· Start your packing well ahead of time; it’s not only easier on you, but on your pets as well. It may be easier to systemize your packing and store them out of the way or in the garage as you.. Start with the stuff you rarely ever see or need, such as your long term storage items (holiday decorations, past files, things you kept from childhood, etc). Then move onto the things you use maybe a couple of times a year, then move onto the things you use once a month. Then as the week approaches leave only the things you will need over a few weeks including any of your pets’ favorite places out to be packed on that last few days and pack the rest. You probably won’t need that extra case of shampoo you got at Costco, but could leave out a couple of bottles, right? And you won’t need all those tools in the garage except maybe a few essentials like screwdrivers, hammers and such, just leave out what you need and might use. Same thing for your pets – say you have stockpiled cases of cans of dog food, you won’t need them all over the few weeks of the transition so why leave yourself more to pack the last few days, just pack twice what you need for your pets and you’ll be fine.
· Get copies of certificates, medical, and immunization records from your veterinarian.
· Purchase identification tags with your new address.
· If you’re planning to travel by air, schedule your flights early and try to book a direct flight – this will be much easier on your pet. You need to find out what the airline’s regulations are for transporting your pet. You will also need to find out what kind of crate will be necessary to contain your dog or cat. Ask for early morning or evening (non-stop) travel times.
· If you’re driving and the trip will take more than one day, be sure and check ahead and reserve motels that will accept pets. Also buy a cooler to keep foods, water and drinks fresh.
· Contact the state to which you’re moving and find out the regulations regarding animals. Some states require an entry permit for pets. Start making a list of items you’ll need for a “pet travel kit,” including a carrier, collapsible dishes, favorite toys, water, food and treats. If your pet isn’t used to car travel, start practicing with short trips around the neighborhood. If necessary, ask your vet about tranquilizers to relax the animal. And when traveling with a pet, it’s a good idea to have a “clean-up kit” in the car for motion sickness situations. Don’t forget to take a few exercise, water and bathroom breaks, and remember, you won’t be able to stop for leisurely meals if you have an animal in the car. Don’t forget - get your car tuned up a month in advance.
· Start packing items that aren't regularly used such as off-season clothes and decorations and items in storage areas(garage, attic, and closets).
· Get medical records from your doctors, dentist, optometrist, and veterinarian.
· Send items (rigs, drapes, clothing, quilts, bedding) to the cleaners.
· Back up important computer files to floppy disk.
· Contact your utility companies (gas, electric, water, cable, trash collector, and local phone service providers) and notify them of your move.
· Sign up for services at your new address.
· Contact your long distance phone company and notify them of your move.
· Call friends and family and recruit help for the moving day if necessary.
· Confirm your travel reservations.
· Arrange to close or transfer your bank account, if appropriate. Pick up items from safety deposit box.
· Pick up items from the cleaners, repair shops, or friends.
· Pack a survival kit of clothes, medicines, special foods, and so on to carry you through the day after arrival in your new home.
· Finish packing all boxes minus what you'll need in the final week.
· Inform the post office of your upcoming move. Send Change Of Address Cards to friends, family, banks, insurance companies, bill collector companies, magazines, newspapers, doctors, lawyers, accountants, realtors, state and federal tax authorities, the department of motor vehicles, the voter’s registrar office, workplace, schools, your pet’s walker, groomer, vet, sitter, trainer or anyone else you do business with.
· Plan to take your pets with you – do not opt for non pet-friendly housing in your search for a new home! Research tips on how to find pet-friendly housing and be as informed and prepared as you can before you even plan to move.
· Know the culture climate of the area in which you are moving and where you are coming from – are they relatively the same or better? If your pet is used to a quiet peaceful farm moving into a loud inner city condo with strange noises from the street may stress your pet. Be considerate of that in your search.
· Provide pets with leashes and new ID tags in case they get loose en route or at your new residence.
· If you’re selling a home, there are going to be lots of strangers around in the coming months – realtors, potential buyers, and inspectors. Make plans for your pet for during these times. Perhaps your pet should be confined to a familiar crate so that he/ she feels safe when there are newcomers in the house. Or, a particularly sensitive animal might do better staying with a neighbor or boarding at a kennel during these times.
· Try not to expose your cat to your new living arrangements all at once. It’s a good idea to limit the number of rooms the cat is allowed in and gradually let him/her explore. Surround the cat with familiar items during the move to reduce emotional stress, and once you’re in your new home, don’t let your cat outside until he/she is familiar with the new living environment to reduce the risk of running away.
· Because you’re in a “new” home, often with new décor and furniture, you may be tempted to replace your pet’s old favorites, too. But it’s better to use your pet’s familiar food and water dishes, bed, blanket and toys to make him/her feel “at home.” Try to keep things in the same locations as they were in your previous residence, as well. Only add don’t subtract!
· Make use of available resources. Contact the humane society or animal care and control agency serving the area into which you are moving; the agency may be able to provide you with a list of great resources for moving.
· Do not move your cats’ litter box from its customary place until you are ready to leave the house permanently.
· File your pets’ vaccination certificates and records with your family’s medical records so you don’t misplace them in the moving process.
· Before the move, take your pet to the veterinarian for a thorough physical exam. If your cat or dog is on any medication, be sure that you have enough for the first period of settling in your new home. Don't forget to take with you copies of your pets' records; it'll make things much easier for the new veterinarian at the new location.
· Take photographs of your pets and you before you move.
· Take care of getting pets licensed, permitted or registered where you are going in advance. Plan to make a vet visit as a health certificate is often required.
· If you are planning to use a pet relocation service, remember movers are not permitted to transport pets, nor are buses or trains. Be sure to research the qualifications and insurances of pet relocation companies and call in advance to see if they have your time frame available and if they need anything from you.
· The importance of a sturdy, comfortable carrier for your pet cannot be overemphasized. A carrier should be large enough for the pet to stand up, turn around, and lie down. It must have adequate cross-ventilation and a leak-proof bottom with layers of absorbent lining. It should have a secure closing mechanism on the door, but do not lock the kennel. Federal regulations require that your pet be accessible in the event of an emergency. Most airlines have pet carriers available for purchase with advance notice (48 hours or more). These kennels meet all US Dept. of Agriculture (USDA) and International Air Transport Association (IATA) requirements for pet transportation. Pet stores also may have acceptable carriers for sale. Birds must be placed in durable pet carriers other than conventional bird cages. Get your pet accustomed to the carrier several days before a flight or car ride by using it as a bed. Placing a favorite toy or blanket inside will make your pet feel more secure. Most airlines accept dogs, cats, birds and fish in air freight. But if you have a venomous snake or other exotic pet, it may not be allowed on the plane. Be aware that airlines may refuse to transport a pet if: it cannot be shipped within a 24-hour period, the ground temperature is below 45°F or above 85°F at either origin or destination, it is not in a USDA and IATA-approved container or without proper identification and certificates, the pet has been sedated, unless the drug name, dosage and how it was administered is noted on the carrier.
· The Animal Welfare Act prohibits air transportation of puppies and kittens less than eight weeks old and prior to weaning, whether accompanied or unaccompanied.
· Put together a pet travel kit to contain: Supply of pet's regular food, Can opener, Pet's food and water dishes, Blanket, Favorite toy or two, A few treats, Comb and/or brush, A mop-up towel, paper towels or a few newspapers, Flea or tick repellent if you will be in rural areas, A sedative prescribed by your veterinarian, Scooper and plastic bags to clean up after your pet at motel or campgrounds, Spray-type room deodorant or air freshener if you will be taking your pet into a motel or hotel room
· If moving outside the United States, make sure that you check into the quarantine policy. To be quarantined is to be kept in solitary confinement. Some countries policies are so long in duration, it might not be fair for your pet to have to endure it. Pets must have been vaccinated 30 days prior to departure.
· Follow the advice of others regarding how to find pet friendly accommodations and see what you can do to improve your chances of finding a place to house your pet prior to making plans to move.
· Give yourself plenty of time to move and always accomodate the time needed for the work involved with packing, moving and unpacking.
· Save up the funds to move. Chances are if you have pets, you will not only need the monies to move in, but monies for hiring moving or packing help, a moving vehicle, loss in incomes because you need time to pack or move, paying double rents or mortgages for a month, and you will need monies to accommodate your pet without disrupting their normal routine (causes separation anxiety and behavioral/training issues later on down the line).
· Once you have secured a new place to live, update the contact information with licensing, micro-chipping and information on your pet’s identification tag.
· Prepare an emergency contact list for family, friends, pet service providers and your veterinarian.
· Make sure to notify family, friends, service providers, employers and bill collectors of your new address change.
· Have your vet see your pet to make sure your pet is current on vaccinations and for advice on any nutritional, behavioral or training needs prior to a move.
· Plan your travel itinerary wisely if you plan to move long distance. Anticipate time and location for potty breaks, water breaks, feedings, medications and exercise time. It may be wise to map out all rest areas and gas stations along the way.
· Gather all your references, information and documentation you will need for your prospective landlord.
· Start crate training and housebreaking early, if you haven’t already.
· Before you consider a move or even packing for a move, consider relocating the pets temporarily so they may keep their current routine and not become stressed or anxious as they see you pack up things they are most familiar with. This is one of the most opportune times of the year pets tend to escape and become lost. You may not have the opportunity to reunite with your pet once you have to start your move. It would be better to find a second place to call home and start getting your pet acclimated to that place right away. There are a variety of boarding services available out to the public, some that have multi-pet settings, some private, some in kennel like facilities, some day camp like settings, and there are some at private homes. Choose the best option for your pet. Don’t wait to give your pet that vacation once you have started packing, do it first before you even grab those moving boxes. You should only need the amount of time it takes you to start/finishing packing, moving and unpacking your things. If you cannot budget long term boarding consider at least daycare options or family or friends and trying them out beforehand. Pack your pet first each time, so that on moving day when you first pack their stuff and load the car, they know what to expect. Never begin a move and pack your pet last. There are too many opportunities for something to fall and injure your pet. Not to mention once you begin to move how many open door opportunities may arise as things are brought out to the car.
· Give your pets extra love and attention prior to the start of a move. It will help ease the transition.
· If you have the opportunity to pack ahead of time, if its weeks in advance, do it. Keep essential cleaning supplies handy and available. If you rentals overlapping in time, do it. This will give you opportunity to transition your pet to the new house as you unpack should your pet not have a second home to go to during the transition.
· Find information about pet friendly rentals, even if you buying a house. The same tips could apply to your situation and be helpful with regards to finding housing and pet care needs.
· Be aware of the risks associated of where you are planning to move that might pose health threats to your pets.
· Relocating pets can be very difficult, especially over long distances. The best thing is to act natural, as if everything should be the way it is. All animals pick up on stress and anxiety and it will make the transition worse for them.
· Have any medications at arms' reach. Don't pack them away.
· Call ahead and reserve animal friendly rooms. Check the room ahead of time at any hotel to make sure there are no places scared animals can get behind, under, out of, etc.
· Before moving, and in addition to everything else you must do for all the humans in your family, make sure you your pets medical records, contact information is updated, ID tags, licenses, emergency kits, first aid kits, photographs, vaccination records, all their supplies, toys and bedding handy for you will need them. Prepare a sheet of instructions of what to do with your animals in case you are injured on the road. Call your veterinarian to see what else you might need to do. Pack extra medications and portable food dishes.
· Make sure you have your new veterinarian available before you move to the new home and that you are all set up with them.
· Meet with new care providers to get you set up for when you need their services (again the planning in advance issue comes into play here as you may actually want to get set up with more than one care provider in case they are booked up when you need them!).
· Some animal communicators suggest talking to the animals about the new place beforehand in a positive tone and even to visit the home before the move. After all a little pep talk and excitement might encourage your pet to enjoy the new place before you are even ready to move over.
· Take the time to positively reinforce crating behaviors. Many animals, including dogs, cats and birds should be crated when traveling long distances, whether by car or airplane. The less stress created by traveling, the more likely the animal will be calmer upon arrival.
· Double check that your pet has accurate identification one last time. Have a vet check to see if the micro-chip is readable, that tags on collars are secure and that all the information in the city/county license department, with the micro-chip, tattoo or other identification company is 100% accurate. The last thing you want is to discover that the micro-chip doesn’t read or that they wrote down the wrong address for you.
· Don't get rid of your pets. If you have done things right from the time you looked for appropriate housing and everything before this, your pet should be coming with you. Don’t give up at the last minute. If you still haven’t been able to find a pet-friendly home, find a temporary home for them right away and begin looking for another place while you move into the new place.
· Make sure you assess your pets emotional state, know your animal and what its trigger anxieties are and try and compensate for that to the best of your ability. Moving can also be a big bonding experience with your pet, especially a rescue animal who may associate moving with being left behind. Lots of reassurance and attention is never a bad thing.
· Practice travel beforehand! Especially with animals that are not used to being confined.
· For an older pet, have a vet checkup done before moving. A blood panel may indicate that the move may be to stressful for them, especially if they are flying by air.
· Practice trailoring your cows or horses if they have never been moved before.


DURING MOVING WITH PETS

· Set aside moving materials, such as tape measure, pocket knife, and rope.
· Pad corners and stairways of house.
· Lay down old sheets in the entry and hallways to protect floor coverings.
· Remove hanging fixtures.
· If moving yourself, pick up the rental truck and a hand truck or dolly to move heavy boxes.
· If you're driving, check oil and gas in your car.
· If you're traveling, make sure you have tickets, charge cards, and other essentials.
· If traveling by car, do not feed or water your pet for a few hours before you leave. After you are on the road, feed only once daily. Take a supply of water from home; different water on the road can cause upset stomachs for pets. Make frequent stops to water and exercise your pet, and keep your pet on a leash for its protection — and yours. While riding in the car, do not let your pet hang out the window. Dirt and insects can fly into its eyes, causing irritation and infection. Keep power-windows locked to prevent your pet — especially cats — from lowering the window and jumping out. If your car is not equipped with air conditioning, leave the windows cracked 1" to 1 1/2". Pets need plenty of air, especially when it is hot, or when the animal is prone to motion sickness. Small animals, such as gerbils, hamsters and guinea pigs are sensitive to hot and cold temperatures. A good guide is your own comfort zone; if you are hot or cold, chances are your small pet will be, too. Try not to leave your pet in the car alone. If it is unavoidable, lock the car doors, crack windows for cross-ventilation, and leave water with your pet. Check on your pet frequently if you must leave it alone for very long. Remove the water and food dishes of birds and other small caged animals to avoid messy spills while the car is moving. Feed and water these pets at stops along the way. Keep your bird's cage covered to help calm it. If you are transporting fish in plastic bags, do not put them in direct sunlight or cold drafts.
· If you anticipate overnight stops, contact several lodgings along your route and confirm your pet will be admitted. No pet should be left in the car overnight. The reservation center may be able to assist you in finding hotels on your route that accept pets. Check your local library for pet-friendly lodging directories, or search the Internet. Snakes should be put into the bathtub and allowed to soak for about an hour once you have checked in. If you leave your pet alone in a motel room, notify the management and hang the "Do Not Disturb" sign on the door. When staying overnight on the road, be sure to have with you: an ample supply of food, fresh water from home, and a dish for each pet, a leash and grooming brush, medications, extra towels and newspaper, a favorite toy or blanket, room deodorizer for hotel rooms.
· Do not permit your pet to do things to antagonize people.
· Also if you are shipping or flying your pet - your pet will need to stay in this container for the entire duration of the trip.
· Make sure it is large enough for your dog or cat to stand, turn, and lie own comfortably. Make sure that you clearly write LIVE ANIMAL on the container or carrier, in order to alert baggage handlers Shipping containers should be purchased well in advance of departure date to allow your pet to gradually become accustom to it. It is up to you to retrieve your pet at the destination (usually within 90 minutes of arrival). If pets are not picked up within a reasonable amount of time, they
· will be boarded at a kennel at the owner’s expense
· Carry with you: The keys to your new home. Map of new town and directions. The telephone number of the moving company. Cash or traveler's checks. Documentation related to the sale of your home. You insurance policies and agent's phone number. Your current address book or personal planner. Prescription and non-prescription medicines. Enough clothing to get by if the movers are late. Any important personal records and documents. Any items of great personal value to you that are virtually irreplaceable(for example, a photo album). Back-up copies of important computer files. Sheets and towels for the first night in your new home. Personal hygiene items(for example, toothpaste, soap, razor).
· Packing Tips: Gather boxes in all sizes from friends, neighbors and stores., Collect cushioning material such as bubble wrap, Styrofoam pellets, furniture pads, old blankets, plastic bags...etc., Create a "portable packing kit" with marking pens, a tape measure, packing tape, twine, and scissors. Carry it with you as you pack up items around your home., Reinforce the bottom of boxes with extra tape for added strength., Label each box with the name of the room in your new home where it should be placed., List the contents of the box on the side of it., Number the boxes and keep a list of which boxes go in which room in your new home., Label boxes containing fragile items with large red lettering., Place china in plastic bags and stack plates upright on their sides, not flat., Pack your TV, stereo, and computer in their original boxes whenever possible.
· Remain calm. Enjoy the move. Have a sense of happiness. This will reflect to the animal.
· If you are stopping at a rest stop, clean up after your dog, and stay in the "pet walk" area. Doing so will make sure that rest stops will continue to allow people to let their dogs out of their car at rest stops.
· Have their normal food and water available. Many animals will go off their food during a stressful time. Find a quiet place to offer food. Encourage them to drink so they do not get dehydrated during travel. Ice cubes work for dogs, they can eat them without the mess of spilled water dishes. Try to stick to their normal feeding times during travel.
· If animals will have to fly, make sure you know all requirements ahead of time. Different airlines have different requirements for animals traveling by air. Animals will need a health certificate by a veterinarian stating the animal is in good health.
· Dogs and cats can ride in your car or be shipped by air. Taking them in the car is fairly simple. Bring their food, water, dishes, etc. and stop at least every two hours. Make sure to walk your dog or cat on a leash. Even the best behaved animals may try to run away when they are being moved to a new location. Call ahead to find motels/hotels that allow pets. If you are flying to your new home, your cat or dog can ride in the baggage compartment. Call your airline to find out about vaccination requirements. If the plane trip will be long and your pet is nervous, you may want to talk to a vet about tranquilizing them.
· Small Animals: Hamsters, birds, mice and guinea pigs are best transported in their usual cages. Make sure the animal has enough food, water, etc. and do not park in the sun. It’s best to transport these animals in your own car.
· Fish: There is no practical way to move fish in their aquarium. It is nearly impossible to move an aquarium safely as each gallon of water weighs 8 pounds. It is best to give the fish away to a good home, move the aquarium dry and then purchase new fish when you get to your new home. If the trip is only an hour or two you may want to try moving your own fish by putting them into a plastic bag with water and air, as if you were bringing them home from the pet store. This website http://www.aquariumfish.net/information/moving_your_fish.htm has some great information about moving.
· Keep animals secure during packing, moving & unpacking process. Territorial animals such as cats & dogs need to be restrained in kennels & not allowed to pee or poop inside on floors or walls or scratch doors & floors.
· If the move involves a car trip, have a dog first-aid kit on hand. Keep fluids on hand if it is in the summer. Dogs can get heat-stress and heat-stroke even while you are in the car.
· Use calming aids to aid the stresses associated with travel.
· With any pet, an actual move requires all their familiar items with them at all times. This way pets know they are coming with you on this new adventure.
· If you must put your bird in a different cage for transport, put some highly tasty treats in that cage so the bird will have a positive association with the cage. Also practice putting the bird and cage in your car if you are traveling long distance in it.
· Small caged animals should be left in their cages with a towel over the top (if it is not too hot). This should minimize stress.

AFTER MOVING WITH PETS

· First at foremost, document the house, take pictures and note any existing damage. Start keeping track of any damage you do from the moment you step foot onto the property.
· Then get yourself settled. Unpack. Unwind. Begin to enjoy your new place.
· Then pet proof your house. If it can be baby proofed, it can be pet proofed.
· Once you are mostly moved in and things seem almost as similar as the old place for your pet, start unpacking the pets.
· Find the vet (if they haven't already) and look for dog parks and parks that are pet friendly.
· Then make sure pets recognize where the potty is, where they eat, drink water and sleep.
· Reward and praise the pet for being a good sport about the new place.
· Stay a responsible pet owner by preventing, and addressing damages or messes.
· Resume regular schedule with pets.
· Establish the house rules – where they are allowed, where their leashes are, etc.
· Have you and your pet meet the neighbors. Maybe they might know the happening hot spots in the neighborhood. This is the best time to build a positive report with your neighbors, especially when it comes to your pets. At this time you will also find out, who to avoid, who is allergic to your pet, who is afraid of your pet, etc. This is also a good time to network. If they have pets, kids or go on vacation this would be a great time to offer your availability to do a sitting or walking exchange. Who knows, you’ll want to go on vacation sometime, and wouldn’t it be nice for your pet to have a neighborly friend to swap with. Just make sure they possess the insurance to do any sitting assignments in case they were negligent, damage anything or steal something. That way you can avoid losing your deposit.
· Allow time for acclimation to your new environment. Some species may take weeks or even months. Follow the advice that was given to you at the vet before you moved.
· Reward and praise the pet for being a good sport about the new place.
· Address any other specific needs of your pet. Make sure your pets needs are well supplied. This will limit the amount of damage that will occur and if new stuff, it will serve as a reward for the pet.
· For cat owners with cats who scratch who rent a carpeted home, try purchasing additional rolls of carpet or rug to lay onto the existing carpet protected by plastic underneath in most frequented areas, so that the main carpet will stay as new as possible. This is also a great technique for dog owners with housebreaking issues. The backup carpeting will absorb messes, and the plastic will limit how much mess penetrates to the carpet itself. Plastic painters sheeting an inexpensive and durable method for this. Make sure to clean up messes as best as possible and to protect the place as often as needed.
· In the first few weeks, slowly introduce your pets to new areas. Don’t open the doors, plop them down and let them have a go at the whole place. Start with one room where they sleep and eat (and potty in cats cases), then open up the space possibilities by adding more rooms on as you notice the pet is comfortable with their new surrounding day by day or week by week.
· 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.
· Show movers where to place furniture and boxes.
· Check inventory to ensure that everything was delivered before signing delivery papers. Note any damages on the inventory sheet.
· Unpack any valuable items, such as silver, art, and jewelry, upon arrival.
· Make your new home safe for all pets by being mindful of, or providing a secure place for, hazards that can
· poison—such as cleansers, insect sprays and pesticides, medications, chocolate, certain plants, and antifreeze (ethylene glycol) burn—such as plugged-in appliances, boiling liquids, open flames electrocute—such as worn lamp cords strangle, choke, or obstruct breathing—such as choke collars, small balls, sewing thread and needles, pantyhose, and bones topple or crush—such as precariously placed appliances, top-heavy filing cabinets, and lamps allow escape or theft—such as loose screens and inadequate fences. Never leave your pet unattended on a balcony or chained in a yard.
· Even birds and reptiles can benefit from being shown their new surroundings, it gets them acquainted with new smells and "feelings" in their new home and makes them less nervous. Provide your animals with a designated area that is "theirs"
· Once you arrive, allow the animals to explore their new home with you. Act normally. Make exploring the new house fun. They will discover their new hang outs and sleeping spots or where to go potty or where to eat.
· If you own or rent a home, always be on time with your payments – never allow the opportunity to default causing a foreclosure or eviction. If you are fiscally responsible from the start, the chances of you or your pets becoming homeless is lessened and will be able to save for the next place much faster.
· Confine pets in one room of the home until the majority of the unpacking is complete.
· Pets often sleep excessively during the first few days in the new home.
· Resist the temptation to refurbish your pets’ belongings. Familiar beds, bowls, blankets and toys are soothing.
· Until pets are acquainted with their new surroundings, supervise all of their outdoor activity.
· Now is the perfect time to make your cat an indoor-only pet. Indoor-only cats live longer and healthier lives. Accessories such as window perches can ease the transition. If you play with your cat and supply lots of attention, your cat should have all he or she needs indoors.
· Wherever you live, disasters such as fires, floods, earthquakes, or hazardous-material spills may occur. Make sure you are prepared for your pet's safety in case of a disaster. Start by keeping a list on hand of community animal welfare resources.
· If your new home was previously occupied by a family with pets, spray the premises for fleas before you move in -- you'll never have a better chance to get into every nook and cranny.
· If you make the effort to pet your pooch, scratch behind your cat's ears or just cuddle with them on a regular basis, they'll be reassured that home is where your love, care and affection is!
· If your pet has an accident, clean up immediately or it might be prone to repeat the behavior in the same spot.
· When ready to explore outside for the first time, only partially feed your cat. A slightly hungry pet will probably won’t wander off too far from their food bowl
· Before letting your dog outside, check to make sure fencing and gates are
· secure. You don’t want your pet to escape on you.
· If you have regular visitors to your house (e.g. a mail carrier), introduce them to your dog so that your dog will not see them as enemies.
· Avoid de-clawing cats just after a move in. The procedure entails removing the last digits of the front feet, which is very traumatic, especially for a pet who is already stressing over the new digs. This should never be considered if your cat ventures outdoors.
· Use of calming aids may assist acclimation to new home as well, but check with your veterinarian first.


PET-FRIENDLY HOUSING
American Kennel Club AIRLINE CHART - www.akc.org/love/dip/legislat/airline_chart0502.cfm.
Century 21 San Diego 55+ Senior Communities - http://55seniorcommunitysandiego.com
Fallbrook Homes for Sale and Real Estate Info, Susah Marsh - http://www.susanmarshrealtor.com
North County Times (free) – http://homes.nctimes.com/RealEstate/Rentals/SearchIndex.asp
Pet Friendly Apartment Directory (free) - http://www.peoplewithpets.com
PET FRIENDLY APARTMENT RENTALS (fee) - http://www.petrent.net
Pet Friendly Travel Directory - http://www.petvr.com
Pet Relocation - www.PetRelocation.com
San Diego Downtown Real Estate, Condos - http://sandiego92101condos.com
San Diego RealEstateAuthority.com - http://www.sandiegorealestateauthority.com
Pet Friendly Apartment Search (fee)- http://petfriendlyrentalssandiego.com
San Diego Union Tribune online (free) - http://www.signonsandiego.com
Team Aguilar San Diego Real Estate - http://www.teamaguilar.com/
Westside Rentals (fee)- http://www.westsiderentals.com