Moving can be a stressful experience for anybody. Ordinarily, it is more stressful for a dog than human. Depending of the distance, you will need to decide whether you want to board your dog on a plane, use local moving services, long distance moving services, or even better you’re going on a road trip with Buddy. If you decide to go with the moving services, consider getting feedback from people who had previously used services to move their pets. Do some research on the Internet! You want the best people to handle your pet. If you need to board your dog on a plane, contact the airline at least 6-months in advance. Some airlines only allow one pet on each flight and believe me this spot gets full in a heart-beat.

If you choose option 2 and 3, you might want to accustom your dog to car travel before the big day. Start with short trips around town. Don’t forget to reward your dog at the end of each trip. Your dog needs to learn that vehicle trips are fun!

Regardless of the means of transportation, you need a clean bill of health from your vet. Make sure your animal’s vaccination is up to date. Gather information from the state/country you’re going to relocate to. Some countries require animalsto be rabies vaccinated at least 30-days before crossing the border. If you’re planning to board your dog at any time, the Bordatella vaccine is important for kennel cough prevention. Finally, if you’re entering an area where ticks are present, consider about getting your dog a Lyme vaccine. Ask your vet if it is necessary to sedate your dog if it is going to be one of those far-away moves.

Regardless of the distance, you need to develop a moving plan for your dog. This includes:

- Identification: If your dog ever gets lost, having a proper identification will help Buddy come home sooner
- Crate: You might want to consider getting one of those heavy-duty plastic travel crates for your animal’s well being. Make sure that your dog has enough room to stand up and stretch.
- Food and water: You don’t want to have to switch to a different brand of food because you run out in the middle of your trip for this may cause unnecessary stress for your dog. You don’t even know if clean water is available along the way. So the moral of the story is: bring enough food and water.
- Your animal’s blanket and favorite toys: Well, dogs are just like kids; bringing his favorite toy and blankie will once again reduce your animal’s stress level.
- Leash and collar: Having these handy is always a good thing.
- Veterinary record: You never know when you might need them.

Plan these things carefully so that you may make smooth transitions from your old to new residence. After all, moving should be a fun experience for you and your four-legged buddy!