Tips for moving with pets

• Ensure your pet has a sturdy collar with a properly labeled identification tag.
• Secure veterinary records.
• Has your pet been vaccinated? Do you have all your pet’s medications, health certificates?
• Keep medications, treats and extra food handy for your pet in case of an emergency.
• Consider asking your vet for an extra prescription refill before you move.
• Moving can be traumatic for a pet. Keep your pet in a secure, comfortable, well-ventilated place, especially if professional movers are helping you relocate.
• Ensure the integrity of pet crates before your move; otherwise, a nervous pet could injury themselves and/or get lost.
• Prepare a pet first aid kit; such as your vet’s telephone number, gauze, adhesive tape for bandages, non-stick bandages, towels, hydrogen peroxide, etc.
• Transport pets safely in a crate or restraining harness. When it comes to cats, it’s always better to use a well-ventilated cat carrier. Secure the crate or carrier with a seat belt and provide your pet with familiar items. Purchase enough kitty litter before moving and feed your pet its regular pet food on schedule.
• If traveling by air, check airline pet policies and restrictions to ensure a safe and comfortable trip for your pet.
• Call the local veterinary medical association (VMA) for veterinarians in your destination.
• Prepare your new home for your pet’s safety. Like people, pets are often frightened and uneasy in their new surroundings.
• Learn about your new area’s laws and regulations ahead of time, such as HOA policies, leash laws, vaccination requirements and health certificates, etc.