If you’re getting ready to move, you probably have a lot on your mind-what to pack vs. what to sell vs. what to trash, where to get boxes, who has a truck, etc…  One area that’s easy to overlook may be what to do with your furry family members. Below are eight tips to help whether you’re looking to move within the West Michigan/Grand Rapids real estate market or elsewhere within the US.

1. Learn more about your new area in regards to pets-what are common diseases, ordinances, laws.
2. Find a new veterinary clinic and emergency hospital close to your new home if your old vet is too far of a drive. Before the switch, ask for veterinary records to give to new vet. And during the move and for a few months after, have your current veterinarian’s contact information available if your new veterinarian needs more information about your pet.
3. On moving day, seclude your pet from chaos. This may mean keeping him/her in a locked bathroom that no boxes will have to be moved out of, or at a familiar neighbor’s house.
4. Keep medications and food on hand, as things will get shuffled about on moving day.
5. Prepare a first aid kit, just in case. Check out this link with ideas on how to create one:  http://www.healthypet.com/PetCare/PetCareArticle.aspx?art_key=4e806660-75cc-4d45-aa34-34b87f5950c0
6. Update your pet’s tag with your new address.
7. Move your pet last. Make sure space is saved in your vehicle for them to be comfortable.
8. Once you arrive at your new home, create a familiar atmosphere with plenty of toys, blankets, food and water bowls to make your pet feel calm and comfortable.