If you've ever moved, you know how stressful it can be. Now imagine how it must feel if you're an animal—scared, confused, and not knowing where you're going. 

Our REALTORS® want to make sure that your move is as easy as can be for you and your four-legged friends. That means planning ahead to ensure that your beloved animal stays calm and happy throughout the moving process. Here's what you need to know about moving with pets to your new Beavercreek homes. 

• Your Mood Matters
  Animals are incredibly intuitive and empathetic. They can pick up on your body language and emotional cues just as readily as humans do—maybe even more so. That means when you get stressed, they get stressed too. 
  
  When you're getting ready to move, it's important to maintain an anxiety-free environment as much as possible. Stay relaxed, keep up regular daily routines, and try to give your pets the same amount of attention they're used to getting. This will reassure them that everything is going to be okay. 
  
  
• Preparation is Essential
  Moving with pets often includes some red tape and busywork. Make sure pets' vaccinations are up to date and get a copy of their health records from your veterinarian. Be sure to have a new vet lined up if you're moving far away. 
  
  Check your new city and state laws for any special regulations, including local leash laws and travel restrictions. Make sure your pets' tags are updated before the move, including your up-to-date address and phone number. Many states also require dogs and cats to have rabies tags on their collars. 
  
  
• Getting Acquainted
  Pets feel most comfortable in a familiar place, just like people. If your new home is close enough to your old residence that you can easily visit, it's a good idea to bring your pet there to allow them to get to know the new space before moving day. Let your pet explore their new house and take a walk around their new neighborhood. 
  
  
• Focus on Crate Training
  It's best to move your pets to their new home in your car with you. Staying in your presence throughout the trip will help them stay calm, but not all animals react the same way to being carried via crate and car. If your pets aren't used to being transported this way, some crate training is in order. 
  
  Cats, in particular, tend not to take easily to crate travel. Introduce them to their crate by placing treats inside and putting a blanket in the crate to make it a cozier space. It can also be helpful to take your pet on some shorter trips in the crate to get them used to it. 
  
  
• Moving Day
  It's best to drop your pets off with a trusted pet sitter on moving day—the stress of watching you pack can be tough on pets—and then come back for them later on. When the time comes to bring your animals to their new home, pack a day bag with some traveling essentials: 
  
  • Your pet's normal food
  • Familiar food and water bowls
  • Any medications your pets may need
  • Your pets' favorite toys and blanket
  • Your pet's health certificate and proof of vaccinations
  • Leash
  • ID tags and photos of your pets in case they get lost

Contact Wright-Patt Realty today to learn more about how to make moving easy for you and your furry pals. Our team is dedicated to helping you find your dream home, and making your move as stress-free as possible.