Special offer

5 Tips for Moving with Pets

By
Real Estate Agent with Compass CA DRE# 01215160

Moving to a new home can be stressful on your pets, during the holidays or at any time of year. Luckily there are many things you can do to make the process as painless as possible. Here are 5 tips from the experts at The Pet Realty Network in Naples, Fla., for easing the transition and keeping pets safe during the move.   

Moving with pets

  1. 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.
  2. 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. 
  3. 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.
  4. 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. 
  5. 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.  

 

Comments (4)

Anna "Banana" Kruchten
HomeSmart Real Estate - Phoenix, AZ
602-380-4886

Lottie this is a great idea for a post!  Thanks so much.  It is one I hadn't thought about - ever.  Good stuff.  And look at you go - post post posting away!!!!

Dec 11, 2009 05:04 AM
Lottie Kendall
Compass - San Francisco, CA
Helping make your real estate dreams a reality

Nothing like a Rain Camp to help one find a focus! Thanks for your encouragement!

Dec 11, 2009 08:31 AM
Jim Crawford
Long & Foster - Fredericksburg, VA
Jim Crawford Broker Associate Fredericksburg VA

Smart post for those with pets.  Thank  you for sharing.

Dec 11, 2009 03:00 PM
Lottie Kendall
Compass - San Francisco, CA
Helping make your real estate dreams a reality

Glad you found it of value, Jim. My second post about pet tips lists 5 more, and commenters there have left more great tips.

Dec 12, 2009 11:13 AM