No matter how organized you plan to be, every move involves some unexpected element that throws you for a loop. With packing to do, furniture to load and your possessions scattered throughout boxes, it’s easy to become overwhelmed. This is doubly true for your four-legged friends! Moving can cause a lot of anxiety for both you and your pet, but with the right attitude, you’ll breeze into your new home in no time. Try these helpful tips for moving with your pet!

Get on the Same Page

Before you make any changes to your pet’s routine, chat with your family about plans for the move. Discuss strategies to limit your pet’s stress levels. As their routine is eclipsed by the chaos of moving, you’ll want to stick to a schedule of feedings, walks and play time. While you might normally be in charge of mid-day walks, for instance, you might forget about your duties as the moving company arrives. By mapping out a plan and delegating pet duties, you’ll be able to easily prioritize your dog or cats health and safety.

Travel Safely

Whether you’re moving across town or across the country, it’s important to take certain steps to ensure your pet’s safety. Vehicle pet barriers, pet travel crates, car seats, and even seat belts can help mitigate risk. If you’re traveling by air, check with your veterinarian to make sure your pet is up-to-date on their vaccines. You may need documentation of their medical records to travel with them, so grab those from your vet, too!

Invest in a Name Tag

 In the midst of a move, it’s easy to lose track of time and tasks on your to-do list. There’s nothing worse, though, than losing track of your beloved family pet – especially in a new area. Make sure your pet has a collar and name tag with your contact information on it. If your pet has been microchipped, make sure the information connected to the chip is updated with your new address. When all seems lost, a tag and a microchip can be your pet’s ticket home!

Your cat or dog is a beloved member of your family. While they can’t always understand the hubbub around moving, they often pick up on your stress. By remaining cool, calm and collected, you’ll see your attitude reflected in your pet. Once they’re safely in your new home, you’ll be glad you took the time to consider their needs during the moving process!