Archive for January, 2009

Relocating with Your Dog Easily Using Long Distance Moving Services

Change is always a part of life. For some people, it includes getting out of their comfort zones and moving to new territories. From personal experience, moving can have its ups and downs. If planned carefully, moving can serve as an opportunity to see the world. I once read the United States has more dogs than any other country in the world. What can you say? Dogs are man’s best friends!

When we move, of course we do not want to leave our best friend behind. As stressful as it is, moving can be more stressful to a animal than human. Do your best to make this transition as smoothly as possible for your animal. You need to choose a transport method for your animal. You can choose from various long distance moving services or local moving services, hire an airline to move it, or move him yourself.

If you are going to choose moving services, get your animal accustomed to vehicle rides. Get a harness that latches to the seat belt for your dog’s safety. Start with short and frequent trips around the neighborhood. Reward your animal after each ride. He needs to know that vehicle trips are fun! If you decide to board your animal on an airplane, consider contacting the airline at least 6-months in advance. Some airlines only allow one animal per tripand this reservation gets full quickly.

Regardless of the way you’re moving your animal, pay the vet a visit to ensure that your dog’s shots are up to date. Some countries require shotis important for kennel cough prevention. If there are ticks in the new area, consider getting your animal the Lyme vaccine.

There are some steps you could take to make moving experience less traumatic for your animal. The most important piece of advice is to plan ahead!! Leave your dog’s possessions alone until you’re close to the relocation date. Try to maintain your dog’s daily routine. When you finally pack your dog’s things, keep them together so when you arrive at your destination you can quickly unpack them to help your animal ease his transition in this new place. On the relocation day, it may be a good idea to have someone keeps an eye of your animal. In the chaos, your dogs might get stepped-on or even escape unnoticed.

If you need to spend the night, find out in advance if there are any pet-friendly places along the way. Don’t forget to equip your animal with proper identification and to bring enough food and water, and an extra leash and collar.

After you arrive at your destination, unpack your dog’s belongings first and give your dog a “safe room” where he could stay when you unload the moving vehicles. Maintain your dog’s old routine to reduce his stress level. After all, moving should be a fun experience for you and your four-legged best friend!