Once you know you are going to move, take your pets to the veterinarian. You'll want to get copies of their records and have the vet give them a general checkup. You would hate to find out your pet has a looming ear infection or some other unknown health problem on the day your removalists arrive. Remember also that vets are experts on animal behavior as well and can offer a lot of helpful advice regarding your move in regard to the type of pet you have as well as their breed, age and temperament. If your pets are high-strung or you're concerned about them being overly anxious or disruptive on moving day, ask the vet about options for medicating your pet while you travel. Asking about this early will give you time to consider your options in this area.



If your pets aren't already used to riding in the car, begin to take them on frequent rides. Expose them to different scenarios. First, begin to take them on increasingly long car rides just around your neighborhood and back home so they can get used to the idea of being in the car and coming back home. Then take them in the car with you when you go shopping or run errands. Start with a short amount of time when you will be out of their sight, and then increase the time to get them used to the idea that you will come back. Be sure not to leave your pets alone in the car on a hot day.

Order new identification tags if you know your new address. If you don't know your new address yet, ask a friend or family member if you can use their information to put on your pets' tags just in case they become lost.

Keep recent photographs of your pets in your car and in your wallet or purse. If you do lose your pet while you're traveling, being able to immediately show a current picture will help you find your pet much more quickly.

As moving day approaches, try to keep your pets' schedules as close to normal as possible. If you have a certain time of day that you play with your pets, keep that schedule. Also be sure to keep your pets' beds and favorite toys with them rather than packing them with the rest of the household.

While you're driving to your new neighborhood, be sure to keep your pets on the same food that they have been on. It's only natural for pet owners to want to make their pet feel better by giving them special treats along the way, but it's better not to. Unfamiliar foods can cause your pet to become nauseated or sick, especially while they're already dealing with a situation they don't quite understand.

Moving with pets can be a bit tricky, but with a little planning and effort, your move will go much more smoothly.