It happens to all of us: moving. Whether you are moving for job relocation or you desire warmer weather, the process can be stressful. Not only is it stressful for you and your family, but it can also affect your pooch. There are steps and measures you can take to make the process a little easier on everyone.

Find out area pet rules and regulations

Many neighborhoods, cities, and states have pet rules that owners must follow.
Certain vaccinations are required in certain areas. You need to make sure that your pet has the proper vaccinations.

1 - When traveling across state borders, you will more than likely have to present a certificate of health for you pooch.

2 - Many neighborhoods only restrict the number of dogs allowed per household and even have breed restrictions.

3 - The first thing you should do is talk to your vet. Get a copy of all your pet’s health records and proofs of immunization.

4 - The second thing you should do is check with the community where you are moving. If you had a real estate agent, then that person can provide you with information. If you did not, then get in touch with your new neighborhood or city council.

Figure out your travel plans

How you travel to your location may have a big affect on your dog. Take you pet’s health into consideration. If your pooch is old or injured, then you may need to consider optional travel plans. Whatever plans you make, you need to be sure that your dog has all the essentials to make him comfy, such as bedding and toys.

1 - A dog with high separation anxiety will have a hard time riding in the cargo hold of a plane, while a dog that gets car sick easy will not enjoy a long car ride.

2 - If you decide to travel by air, then seek the additional rules and requirements of your airline prior to your travel date. Airlines have strict rules on carriers and animal travel.

3 - You may also need additional health forms.

4 - If you are traveling by car, then make sure that your pet will be safe along the way. He should be confined to a carrier that can latch onto a seatbelt.

5 - There are pet movers that take care of everything for you. Don’t choose a mover out of ease. Instead, really take into consideration the temperament and wellbeing or your pooch.

Make sure your pet is identifiable

Before you go on any sort of trip, your pooch should be identifiable. You never know when he may sneak off and end up with a stranger.

1 - Your pet’s collar should have a dog tag with your contact information and a dog tag with vaccination information. The dog tags should be visible; if mistaken for a stray, your dog may not be properly taken care of.

2 - Consider having a microchip embedded under your pet’s skin. Most shelters and veterinarian offices have scanners that can detect the presence of the chip. If he does have a chip, then make sure you update your new contact information in the chip’s database. For added safety, your pet should also wear a tag that identifies the chip.

Keep him away from the hustle and bustle

As moving time comes, try not to involve your dog in all the ruckus.

1 - Keep your dog in a familiar and quiet place. Movers and family members going in and out of the house can stress out your pooch even more.

2 - Leave toys, food, and water for him.

3 - Keep the doors closed as much as possible. An irritated dog has been known to make a run for the door.

Introducing him to his new home

When you arrive at your location, there are some steps you can take to get your pet accustomed to the new place.

1 - Have your dog on a leash, and walk him around your new home. Start on the outside of the house, and then move to the inside.

2 - Let him stop and smell whatever he wants to smell. He really needs to take his time.
Make his a special, comfortable area. Bring his blankets from the old home, but don’t wash them; he’ll like the smell. And make sure he has plenty of familiar toys.

3 - You are already changing his surroundings, so try not to change anything else. Keep his old toys, bedding, and food dishes.

4 - Don’t break his routine just because you are in a new place. If he eats at a certain time each day, then continue to feed him at that time. Don’t interrupt daily walks or playtime, either.

Give him time! If he is scared at first, don’t get angry. He’ll come around eventually.

Author's Bio: 

Article written by Shelly Seigler. Find Elite pet products at low prices with Discount Pet Mall. Shop Uniquely for dog training collars, dog tracking collars, electric dog fences, & bark collars.