The stress associated with moving is understandable and just like their human housemates, can be an issue for dogs, as well. Read my outline below on how to limit the stress felt by your best friend throughout the moving process. With a little extra love, planning, and patience, you will reduce your pet's anxiety and help them adapt faster to their new home.

As you begin to get ready to move, try to keep your dog's daily routine as normal as possible. If your dog is not used to a crate or pet carrier and will encounter one during the course of the move, take a few weeks to get them comfortable with the idea so it does not add more stress on moving day.

If you are traveling more than a few hours to your new home, your dog will need water, food, any medications and a secure leash. Of course, you want to avoid separating from your dog during transport for any reason. Just in case... make sure your dog's ID tags are up to date with your CURRENT phone number. Carrying a photo of your dog will come in handy in the unlikely become separated.

If you're traveling by car and your dog is not used to it, ask your vet if a mild medication to calm the dog's nerves is recommended. A carrier is best for car travel and never, for any reason, leave your dog unattended in a car. Leaving a dog alone in a car puts them in danger, as well as leaving them fair game for theft. It is also dangerous to put your dog in a truck bed, a trunk or in the moving van. Your dog needs to be protected during transport and he needs the comfort and care of his family.

If you are traveling by air and your dog is small you can take it with you in the cabin. If the dog is larger, consult the airline to assure the cargo hold is temperature controlled and pressurized. Take a direct flight to avoid delays or the possibility of your family pet being separated from you and if at all possible, travel on the same flight as your pet. To avoid air travel for your dog, search on the internet for car transportation services for your pet. Your vet may also have information in this regard. These services do exist and can help eliminate stress and potential danger to your best friend.