When 4-Legged Family Members Are Relocating…

Close to 70% of families say they have a dog or a cat in their household. If you are in that sizable majority and are planning on relocating to a new area, there are some planning steps you can take to help ease the move for your four-legged family members.

Since the daily routine is going to be thoroughly undermined, on the day of your move, do as much as is practical to retain a calm atmosphere. If possible, provide a small quiet area where the pets can stay out of the way and safely clear of any wide-open doors. If you have portable fencing that’s strong enough to do the job, remember to make it available with the first wave of unpacking.

Fostering calm is especially important while your goods are being moved in and out by big, scary strangers.  If you will be using cages for transportation, make sure they are roomy enough, and put in some familiar, comforting toys. For especially excitable pets, you may want to consider spraying their cage ahead of time with a pheromone formulation that helps retain calm.

Relocating to or moving into any new home is apt to create opportunities for pet prison breaks. A move can disrupt behavior patterns for even the most loyal four-footer. Both cats and dogs who have gotten lost during relocation have famously made their way back home — even when home isn’t there anymore. Prevent such misdirected heroics by making sure the garden has been fully secured before you move – and have all collars equipped with new tags with new contact information. A doubly failsafe method is to have your pet micro-chipped.

In Pennsylvania, all dogs three (3) months or older must be licensed by Jan 1st of each year. You can receive a fine of up to $300 plus court costs for violating. Contact your local county treasurer for an application and current fee schedule.

Relocating/moving will be a big event, and a big adventure. Pup and Kitty will settle in shortly: the truth is, as soon as you are content, they will be, too.

John Badalamenti is an Associate Broker with Prudential Fox & Roach serving the Philadelphia Main Line & Surrounding Suburban Philadelphia area.  John can be reached via email @ johnb@subphillyhomes.com or visit his website: www.MainLineHomeZone.com