Moving with Pets

May is National Moving Month, meaning that this month is the beginning of summer and moving season in the US. Many families will take advantage of the break in school and the relatively calm weather to move to new homes between now and Labor Day.

If your family is moving and you have pets, you may be thinking about what you'll need to do to make this a smooth transition for them. Here are some suggestions and resources:

• Realtor Mag has collected suggestions from The Pet Realty Network in Naples, FL, which include making sure your pet's ID tags are up to date, taking a copy of your vet records with you, and packing a basic pet first aid kit.
• For practical and logistical ideas, PetsWelcome has a variety of checklists. These include pre-move items, like veterinary care and state regulations; different transportation methods; and advice for moving small pets, birds, fish, horses, and others.
• Petfinder suggests some steps you can take before moving to help cats acclimate to carriers and dogs to cars and points out what you'll need to check motel rooms for, if you're driving for multiple days.

Between these sites, you'll be able to assemble a to-do list that suits the needs of you and your pet. Happy moving!