Make Moving Easier Complete Guide - Make Moving with Pets Easier | Page 3

certain certificates depending on where you are moving. A call to the local
animal control facility should answer your questions.
2. Talk to Your Current Vet: Your veterinarian is a great resource. If you
have an animal that dislikes traveling, your vet can suggest behavior
modification techniques or medication that can make traveling less stressful
for your pet. When talking to your vet, also discuss getting Fluffy or Fido
micro-chipped. Dr. Sara Sheltren, a veterinarian at the East Padden Animal
Hospital says getting pets' identification microchips can be a vital step in
reuniting pets with their owners.
3. Find A New Vet: Find a new vet in your new area before moving day. Your
current vet may be able to make recommendations for colleagues he or she
knows in your new area. When finding a new vet, it is recommended to set up
an appointment as soon as you move in order to get established. It always
important to make sure you are comfortable with their practice before they
are needed in an emergency.
4. Get Medical Records: Before you leave your old home, make sure you get a
copy of all of your pet's medical records to give to your new vet and be sure to
find the closest emergency animal hospital and keep that phone number
handy.
5. Update Your Address: Don't forget to have new identification tags with
your new address and phone number made for your pet's collar, and if your
pet has an identification microchip, remember to update your contact
information in the database. Dr. Sheltren also recommends carrying a picture
of your pet with you in case they get lost.
6. Keep Things Normal: Instead of pulling an all-nighter to pack, try to pack
over a long period of time so that your pet thinks everything is normal. This
will keep their stress level down. If you are moving with cats, it can help to
bring out their carriers out a few a weeks before the move. Put their favorite
treats and toys inside their carriers so they can get used to it before the big