Everywhere you look this year, change is the magic word. Well, that is great and all so long as it does not involve us personally. Moving is a huge change, for instance, and there is not a soul on this planet who likes packing up and moving out.

A move is taxing in many ways. Beyond gas prices, it wears you out. The physical strain is obvious, but so is the idea of moving to an area where everything is new. If you think it is a stressful time for you and your family, your pet is easily ten times as stressed.

Why is this so? Well, most pets are much more attuned to their environment and are highly territorial. When removed from familiar terrain, they will stress out to the point they become catatonic or physically sick, neither of which is good.

Sick pets are no fun. Take a trip to your trusty vet before moving to make sure everything is okay. The vet may be able to give you something to calm your pet during the move. Make sure to ask for a vet referral as well for the destination.

Assuming everything checks out okay, it is time to get ready for the move. You have one primary goal. You want to reduce the stress level of your pet as much as possible. Low stress means they will be less likely to panic.

If you have a cat, moving is an extremely stressful time for it. The goal is to limit sensory input. Place your cat in a moving container and put it in a quiet room till you are ready. This will help settle your kitten.

When you are ready to go, take the container with you. Make sure it is in the same vehicle as you. You want to reassure your kitty with your odor. There is a downside, however. If you stress out, your cat will sense it and do the same.

Once the trip is done, place the container in a room off limits to anyone else. Leave your cat in the container. Keep the door closed and your cat should slowly destress. When everything is settled later, close all exits to the outside and let the cat out of the container.

Dogs are obviously different pets than cats. When it comes to moving, however, many of the same issues apply. Your goal is to minimize their stress. You can let them roam while packing, but make sure to keep an eye on them for signs of stress.

Upon arriving at the new location, do not take your pup inside. They may be so stressed that they will relieve themselves. This is not exactly a good way to break in the new home.

If you want to save your new carpet from immediate wear and tear, take your pup for a lap around the house. This will give them the chance to check things out, mark their territory and get acquainted with any dogs nearby.

Regardless of the type of pet you have, the key is to realize how traumatic a move is for them. Mark out some time during the move to help them handle the stress and get used to their new environment. It will make things go much easier.