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Prior to moving, schedule a visit with your veterinarian for a thorough exam, making sure all vaccinations (especially rabies) are current. Obtain copies of your pets' records. If your pet is on any medication be sure to have an ample supply so you won't run out before getting settled in your new location. Also discuss with your veterinarian whether your pet should be tranquilized during the move. If so, get enough to try it out prior to the move to be sure the dosage works properly.
If you are transporting the pet by plane, try to book a direct flight to minimize the time the animal may be sitting outside the plane in inclement weather conditions. Some airlines provide counter-to-counter service so your pet will be carried on and off the plane by an airline employee. While this service costs a little more, it may be worth it for your peace of mind.
CATS
Cats are notorious for getting into trouble during the moving process since they are particularly sensitive to stress. "Stress for a cat involves three things," says animal behaviorist and psychologist, John Wright, author of Is Your Cat Crazy? "It involves reaction to novelty -- cats don't like novelty. They like sameness. It involves reaction to unpredictability -- cats don't like events to be unpredictable. The third thing is the degree of control-- cats don't like to be out of control. When you move, you have a high degree of all three, until things settle down."
For these reasons it is particularly important to maintain your cat's normal routine. During the move itself, keep your cat confined to one room with food, water, a litter pan, some favorite toys, and the carrier you plan to use so your cat can get used to it. The door should be locked or have a large, "Do Not Open" sign on it, so the movers won't inadvertently let the "cat out of the bag."
Transport your cat in a well constructed cat carrier large enough to have room for food, water and a small litter box. Upon arrival at your destination, place the cat and carrier in one secure room with at least two doors between the cat and the outside. Open the door of the carrier and let the cat decide when to come out. Allow your cat to become acclimated to the one room before releasing him to the rest of the house. If the cat scurries for cover when you open the door, wait a day or two longer, then try again. Let the cat explore other rooms of the house when it meets you at the door.
If your cat is accustomed to going outdoors, wait several days after arriving at your new home before letting the cat out, placing him on a leash or harness for short exploratory trips. After 2 or 3 days of these trips, you can begin to let your cat out on its own.
DOGS
Dogs are generally easier to move than cats since they aren't as affected by the stress. A few special considerations to keep in mind include being prepared to clean up after your dog at rest stops. Carry a roll of paper towels and disposable plastic bags. Place a piece of paper towel over the solid matter, and your hand in one of the plastic bags. Pick up the towel and solid matter and pull the bag down over your hand and towel, turning it inside out. Then, twist, seal and dispose.
If you have a small dog and plan on flying to your new home, he may be able to fly with you in the passenger compartment if he is small enough to fit into a carry-on bag that will fit under the seat. Check with the airlines for details. If you are transporting a larger dog by plane, try to book a direct flight to prevent your pet from having to spend long periods in a distant airport, and have someone scheduled to pick up your dog at the other end.
Never leave any pet in the car for more than a few minutes. This is especially important during warm weather. If you are carrying your dog with you in the car and plan to stop overnight, be sure to call ahead to find a hotel that accepts pets.
The following is a list of items to pack in your pet's suitcase:
- Phone number of your regular veterinarian
- Bottled water--pet's stomachs can be upset by a sudden change in water
- Enough pet food for the entire trip
- Water, food dishes & plastic spoons for mixing and dishing out food
- A few of the pet's favorite toys
- A favorite bed, blanket or sleeping mat
- Comb & brush, flea comb or shampoo
- Collar with ID tags and leash
- Plastic bags for picking up waste
- Sponge & paper towels (for clean ups)
- Cotton balls, Q-tips for cleaning eyes and ears |
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If you have questions or are interested in buying or selling
Real Estate in Winston-Salem, Lewisville, Clemmons and surrounding areas
of Forsyth, Davie, Davidson, Yadkin and Guilford Counties of NC
please feel free to email or call us at (336)413-0288.
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