Moving Impacts Your Pet Too!
Saturday, June 28, 2008 03:50 AM
By Kathi Travers
The summer months are the busiest moving months of the year. It is also the time more pets get turned into animal shelters than any other time.
When people look for new places to live, they think of their children and will not move into ““adults only”” accommodation as a result. However, for some reason or other, a significant number will simply ditch their pets if the new residence does not allow them. So, they were never really a member of the family at all.
Pets get stressed when moving just as we do. The minute you start to pack, they pick up that something out of the ordinary is happening and their behaviour will change.
You can reduce anxiety by being aware that it will happen.
So, make sure you keep your pet's routine as regular as possible during the preparatory moving stages as well as during the move. Continue to feed, exercise, and play with your pet as you always do, whether the schedule is regular or irregular.
During moving day, or even the lat few days of preparation, you may find it better if your pet stays at a friend's home or a kennel which you have used previously. Your pet is less likely to get upset and run away or hide in an unknown spot as cats like to do.
Obtain a copy of your pet's medical record. Be sure you inform your vet if you are moving south or to a place where there is a potential for fleas or heartworm. This way they can get your pet on a preventive regime already. Ask for a referral to a vet in your new location. Finding a veterinarian is much like seeking out a new physician. Be picky! You have to get that "right" feeling. Don't be afraid to ask questions. Ask neighbours and folks that you see out with their pets.
Most importantly, make sure your animal has clear identification. In addition to ID tags, the best is to micro chip or tattoo. Make sure the ID tag has 2 telephone numbers, one of a relative or friend that can reconnect you if your animal is found and you are en route. Have a few pictures of your pet ready in case it does get lost and you have to describe it to someone.
Pack enough food. Don’’t change diets. Take extra medication to last until you settle in. Do not get caught unprepared. It's when you don't have it that you'll need it. Pack extra leashes and collars in your pet travel bag. Whatever you do along the way, don't let your dog off the leash! Keep your cat in a harness and leash just in case it tries to escape. This way you will have some control. Crates work better than having a loose cat in a car. Stops along the way are the reasons pets get lost.
When you get to your new residence, find a quiet, safe place for your pet to chill out. Make sure you keep it in a confined area. Don't even think of letting it outside without leashes. Cats should not be outside at all. They need special attention at this time. Pets too need time to get acquainted and adjust. Continue to keep feeding schedules and walk/play times the same as before.
With careful planning and patience moving doesn't have to be so bad.
Have a safe move! Come back and visit.
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