Are you and your dog looking for a new pad? Leading real estate resource Trulia, has the following tips to make sure your move is a smooth and easy one.
#1 – The most important thing any pet owner can do before moving with their pets is plan, plan, plan.
#2 – Research where you want to live first and make sure it’s a pet-friendly location. Get to know your neighborhood you are moving to – are there parks, dog parks, places where your furry friend can go outside and get fresh air?
#3 – Make sure that the apartment or house you are moving to accepts pets. Having a letter of recommendation from your previous landlord can help prove you’re a responsible pet owner. Trulia is a great resource for finding pet-friendly apartments.
#4 – Can you afford it? A lot of times there are extra expenses (deposits, fees, even pet rent) when you have a dog.
#5 – Investigate subdivision regulations. If you are moving into a planned unit residential subdivision, or a townhouse, condominium or apartment complex, make sure you understand the rules and policies regarding pets. Some residential associations restrict pet numbers or breeds, allow only dogs up to a certain weight, or ban/restrict fences and dog runs.
#6 – You may first want to research the laws and requirements of the state your new home is in. Some cities may require different things than the city you currently live in. You might have to apply for a certain permit or carry special insurance in order to keep your pet in that area.
#7 – Make sure to verify what shots are required before you bring your pet into a new place. You might try contacting the State Veterinarian in the capital city of your new home state well in advance to go over specific laws.
#8 – Visit your local veterinarian. This is vital to the health of you and your pet that you schedule a checkup before you move. Also be sure to obtain a current health certificate for your pet handy during interstate travel, because many states require one.
#9 – Give your pet plenty of time to get used to packing boxes. Have boxes around for a few days before any significant changes take place to help assure your pet that there’s nothing to fear. When you do start to pack, do one room at a time.
#10 – Buy the essentials your dog needs before embarking on the move. Whether it’s a short move across the city, or it’s a drive through a couple of states, the safety and comfort of your pet is important.
#11 – If your dog’s only exposure to a carrier/crate was when she came home from the shelter, now’s the time to leave it where she can examine it daily. Place your dog’s favorite blanket or toy in the carrier, and praise her when she goes inside.
#12 –Dogs are often easy to travel with, but if your pup’s only experience in a car has been a trip to the vet, you’ll want to acclimate him to riding in the car a few weeks before your move. Start with short trips, perhaps to the park. Positive association will reinforce the pleasurable aspect of car rides and help decrease anxiety.
#13 – Plan ahead of time for lodging. Many motels or hotels are pet friendly, but be sure to book them ahead of time.
#14 – On the day of the move, place your dog in their carrier, a room, or the backyard– or somewhere that they cannot escape while you are loading the car or moving van.
#15 –If you cannot personally take your pet with you during the move, there are a variety of animal relocation companies that will transport your animal using either their own vehicles or by prearranging appropriate relocation methods and boarding. They also make sure that your pet’s paperwork is up to date.
Toledo, United States.