The Humane Society of the United States Offers Moving Tips for Pet Owners

WASHINGTON (August 3, 2006) — The summer months are said to be the peak moving season. The process of moving can be stressful for all family members – people and their pets.  The Humane Society of the United States offers safety guidelines for pet owners to keep in mind while moving so that the experience can be less stressful on the entire family.

Before Moving

• Familiarize yourself with the local pet ordinances of the area where you'll be moving.  Each community has a unique set of laws, usually including things like licensing, leashing and vaccination but occasionally restrictions on the number of pets a person can have in a household without a special permit.
• Visit your veterinarian. Depending on destination, your pet might need additional vaccinations or health certificates. Also discuss whether or not your pet will need medication to help calm him or her during the moving process.
• Maintain your pet's routine. Like people, pets are often disturbed by the stir of moving. While you are packing up your belongings during the weeks prior to the move, be sure that you keep your pet's walking, playing and eating times as regular as possible so that he can feel less confused about the change.
• Prepare your pet's ID tag. Purchase an ID tag with your new address and phone numbers(s) as soon as you know your new contact information. An up-to date ID tag is the best way for you to get reunited with your pet in the unfortunate case that he becomes separated from you during the moving commotion.
• Invest in a high-quality, sturdy pet carrier or seatbelt harness. Allow your pet to gradually get used to spending time in the carrier or wearing the harness. Placing your pet's blanket or favorite toy inside of the carrier might help your pet feel more relaxed.

While Moving

• Practice moving day security. While furniture is being moved out, confine your pet to a safe, quiet space (such as a bathroom) so that your pet cannot escape. Place a large "DO NOT ENTER" sign on the door, and let everyone involved in the move know that the room is off-limits.
• Ensure a safe car trip. Make frequent stops, and always use a leash while you're walking your dog at rest stops. For everyone's safety, make sure to use a well-ventilated and securely placed pet carrier to travel with your cat. Otherwise, make sure that your pet is secured by a pet safety harness. Never leave pets alone in a parked vehicle because, during warm weather, the temperature in a car can rise to 120 degrees in a matter of minutes, even with the windows slightly open.
• Keep a pet travel kit with you. While on the road, be sure to pack more food, medications and water than you may need.  Having extra foods that are familiar will avoid stomach upset should your trip take longer than planned. Be sure to bring along a scooper and plastic bags to clean up after you walk your dog.
• Stay in hotels that accept pets. For a list of available guides and links to online directories of animal-friendly hotel accommodations, visit The HSUS at www.hsus.org.
• Do not travel with your pet on an airplane unless it's absolutely necessary. If you cannot drive to your new destination, be sure to visit The HSUS at www.hsus.org, for tips on airplane safety for your pet. 

Arriving at Your New Home

• Introduce your pet to your new home. Keep your pet confined in a secure room while furniture is being moved in. Comfort your pet with his familiar blankets, toys and food and water while secured in the room. After the hustle and bustle of the move has died down, allow your pet to explore his new home with you. Placing items such as your pet's favorite food bowl, bed, toys or litter box in their new locations will help the pet to become comfortable with his new surroundings.
• Remove odors from previous pets. Moving into a home where other pets previously resided might encourage your pet to mark his or her territory. Visit The HSUS at www.hsus.org, for tips on how to remove pet stains and odors as well as tips for addressing urine-marking behavior. 

"Moving is always hectic, but by following these simple steps, you can be sure that you and your pet arrive safely and relatively stress-free at your new home," says Stephanie Shain, HSUS director of outreach for Companion Animals.

-30-

The Humane Society of the United States is the nation's largest animal protection organization with more than 9.5 million members and constituents. The HSUS is a mainstream voice for animals, with active programs in companion animals, disaster preparedness and response, wildlife and habitat protection, marine mammals, animals in research, equine protection, and farm animal welfare. The HSUS protects all animals through education, investigation, litigation, legislation, advocacy and field work. The nonprofit organization is based in Washington and has field representatives and offices across the country. On the web at www.hsus.org.