We've all been there.  Packing up the entire contents of your household and moving the boxes into a new place.  Many times, it's a mixture of emotions: sadness for leaving your old Northern Virginia or Maryland home and excitement for moving into your new South Carolina or Washington DC property.  Moving can take its toll on animals as well.  Here are a few tips to make a stress-free move for your pets:

BEFORE YOU MOVE
Take your pet to the vet to get updated on all their vaccinations.  This is especially important when moving out of the area.  You don't want to worry about your pet's welfare while looking for a new vet near your new residence.  You will also want to get copies of all their medical records to take with you (like you would for yourself or your kids).  Consider implanting a microchip into your pet if they don't already have one.  Pets are more likely to get lost during the chaos of moving than at any other time.  You don't want to add looking for your pet to the long list of things you have to do on moving day.

Stock up on your pet's favorite food and treats.  Stress can affect an animal's tummy just like it does human beings.  Keep some of their treats and dry pet food on hand in a zippered bag for easy access. 

Keep favorite toys, blankets or other objects on hand to help your pet relax during the move.  Lavender scents are also calming, especially for dogs.  Mix a few drops of essential lavendar oil with water in a spray bottle and keep on hand when things get a little too stressful.  It may sound odd, but it works wonders.

ON MOVING DAY
Pets can easily get under foot.  Since doors are inevitably left open and so many people are coming in and out, it's easy for pets to become disoriented and take off.  Think about boarding your pet for the day.  If money is an issue, ask friends, family members or neighbors if they would be willing to "pet-sit" for the duration of the move.

AFTER THE MOVE
Set up a space that your pet can call their own.  For dogs, place their blanket or bed in an area designated just for them.  Put their favorite toys there.  Sit down with them while petting their fur to reassure them.  A calm dog is a happy dog.  Cats, on the other hand, will want to explore every inch of the new place.  Just make sure they know where the essentials are: food, water and, of course, the litter box.

Moving can be just as stressful on pets as it is on humans.  Follow these tips for a stress-free move for your pets and you will all be happy campers.  If a move is in your future, please contact me.

Gene Mock, your Northern Virginia, South Carolina, Maryland and Washington DC real estate specialist