Our pets can't tell us what they're thinking or feeling and we can't explain to them what's going on, but we must remember that moving house is an extremely stressful time for them because of this fact - they don't understand what's happening. Your existing home may be the only place they've ever known and therefore leaving the place where they feel safe and secure can be very upsetting and traumatic for them. But, if you plan well in advance you should be able to limit this stress caused.

Just how much preparation you need to do will depend greatly on how far and where you're moving to, so some of these points below may not be applicable to you...

First and foremost, clarify if pets are allowed to your new home. There might be rules about it if your transferring to a condo or estate. Even some towns and cities have restrictions on how many pets are allowed in each property so it's imperative that you check this.

*If you're moving to another state you will need to research what laws that state has on the entry of animals. You should be able to find this information on the official state website for the state you're moving to, though requirements will include things like being up to date with shots and vaccinations. Each countries or places has rules regarding with pets.

You know that pets traveling in a moving truck is not right. It would be inhuman to do like that to your pet and your pet will be uncomfortable. If you're driving to your new home, your pet will need to accompany you in the car so you'll need to make sure there's enough room for it.

*If your pet has to travel by air, arrange this well in advance. Air travel with humans and for pets are not the same. You need special papers for pets.

*Make sure your pet can be properly identified before you leave home. Pets have special skills in finding their way back to their old homes so be wise to know how to reunite with your pet again.