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Moving Part Deux
Tips for the
Road
If you're
traveling by car, keep cats/dogs in carriers large enough to accommodate
food and water bowls plus a small cat litter box. Stop about every few
hours to give larger pets some fresh air and exercises and to give them some
relief. Use a leash if you let your
cat/dog out. Maintain a comfortable car temperature for all pets, and don't ever
leave animals alone in a car on a hot day. Even with the windows cracked, this
can be fatal. Birds and other small pets such as hamsters, etc.)
are especially susceptible to drafts and heat. Make sure you:
- Check the weather at both
ends, moving birds and animals in the rain is not fun be ready.
-
Veterinary records, certificates, and recent photos of
your pet(s)
-
Medications
-
The
usual foods and plenty of water from the
home you're leaving (changing their water source can be disorienting and may upset
their stomachs); for birds try to use filtered water at all times this way you
can avoid chemicals and changes in water--your bird will live longer (small or
large).
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Food, treats, toys and water bowls, a can opener, and resealable lids
-
Leashes for cats and dogs
-
Paper towels
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Bedding (pillows, towels, or other crate or carrier liners)
-
Cat litter box
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Provisions for the first couple days at the new place
Moving
In
-
Choose a small room as the pet room, where they feel
secure as you move in furniture and belongings. Have furniture, bowls,
and toys before you let your pets out of their crates.
-
Don't let pets outdoors without a leash until they've
adapted to their new surroundings.
-
Continue giving your pets water from home for the first
few days, or filtered water.
-
If you suspect your pets to be ill, make a veterinary
appointment. Don't punish your pets for initial misbehavior. Cats especially
will not understand, and distrusting you will only increase stress and
stress-caused behaviors.
-
Clean up "accidents" immediately, animals tend to
repeat behaviors in the same areas, so remove odors as quickly as possible.
-
For birds, ensure that they're placed in a room where it has not been recently
painted.
-
Take the dog on regular walks around the neighborhood to
introduce him to the area.
-
For the first few days, give the cat the security of one
room, including supplies. Let it explore the house/apartment at its own pace. Don't open windows more two
inches unless they're screened.
-
Place litter boxes away from feeding areas, preferably
on top of a replaceable throw rug.
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ingSpan Aviaries