Ready, Set, Move! Planning the big move with your dog in mind.

You´re excited, you´re moving to a great new home. What do you need to know about moving with your dog?

1. If your dog is not already trained to spend time in a crate you will want to do so immediately. A crate will serve two very important purposes during your move. When properly crate trained, your dog will think of that area as his den; a place where he is comfortable and that is his own. This will be invaluable when you move to a new environment, at least will still have his den that is unchanged.
2. If you are moving so far that you need to change veterinarians, start planning this as soon as you start planning your move. You will want to make a visit to your current vet to get an assessment of your dog´s health. You should also be able to discuss finding and choosing a new veterinarian at this visit.
3. Start planning what you can do for your pooch immediately. As soon as you start planning your move, start a running list of things you can do to make sure this goes as easy for your dog as possible. If you are enlisting the help of friends or family for your dog, secure a commitment from them as soon as possible. You don´t want to ask for favors at the last minute. Making a detailed list will also insure you don´t take Fido to his new home without his favorite water dish and fluffy bed.

An ounce of prevention is worth of a pound of cure. Pre-planning for the big move with your dog in mind will help you both get through the day with as little stress as possible.

If your dog doesn´t already have comfort items, pick up a new bed or a fun toy today so he can begin to get attached to it. As always, have plenty of dog treats on hand so you always have a reward for his positive behavior.