As you and your family plan your year end relocation, within the USA, there are a multitude of checklists to set up.

Remember the family pet(s). Driving regionally or cross country will require pre-planning with pet friendly overnight stays. Cats should be moved from automobile to hotel in a pet carrier. Dogs should be walked on a leash at all times; and tagged with a phone number-use your cell phone on the dog ID tag.

For the dog traveling in the family automobile, stop every two and nor more than every three hours for the pet to be comfortable, and to stretch your legs as well. Be sure to take along a water supply for the pets and yourself, and the food the pet normally eats, to maintain food intake consistency. Interstate automobile travel does not require health certificates to move from state to state.

A good idea is to have the pet’s most recent Rabies vaccination record handy as you travel. Sedation for the pet riding in the family car is generally not advised; your veterinarian can give you the best advice. When you reach your relocation destination, allow the pets to become adjusted to their new environments over a period of several days. Each pet adjusts differently; so be patient. Bring along the pets comfort toys, blankets, beds, etc to make the pet feel at home in their new residence.