Jennifer Nilssen writes the hyper local blog titled "The Real Kirkland" for the Kirkland Reporter. http://blogs.kirklandreporter.com/realkirkland/

My Blog

May 28th, 2010 1:50 PM

Moving With Pets?

Last Summer we lost our beloved family dog, a 21 year-old yellow lab, Diesel, to old age. Over the years he had such a loyal companion that he had become irreplacable. Nevertheless, we've been recently toying with the idea of getting another dog, realizing that it would be impossible to replicate the experience we'd had before.

2 weeks ago I was at the Kirkland Farmer's Market and the Humane Society was there with some of their rescue animals. With them was a yellow lab mix named Sellick. He was so perfect - docile, trained, and had the sweetest face I had ever seen . An hour later, after his very patient caretaker was giving me the "come on, Lady, let's make a decision here" look, I had to - no joke - tearfully rip myself away from him realizing here was no way I could bring home a dog on a whim. I went home but feeling like I had to keep tabs jsut in case, I called around to find out where they'd be keeping him. That night I slept on it. I was the first person in line for him the next day at the Human Society in Bellevue.

When I got there, I was told Sellick had fortunately/unfortunately been adopted late the night before. It was bittersweet - sad because he was a one of a kind and I would've loved to have known him but I was so relieved knowing that a loving family had a chance to adpot him and he would have to stay in the kennel anymore.

Just a reminder that there are many amazing animals for adoption at the King County Humane Society. To view pictures of available pets visit www.seattlehumane.org . You can also see their windowed vans full of pets on display at the local famer's markets through October.

Tips For Moving With Pets:

1. Update your pet's tag - make sure your pet has a sturdy collar labeled with current contact info

2. Ask for vet records - f you're moving far enough away that you'll need a new vet, ask for a copy of your pet's current vaccinations and records

3. Seclude your pets from chaos - pets can feel anxiety with commotion, keep pets in a quiet room during the move labled "Do not disturb, Pets inside."

4. Get ready for take-off - if traveling by air, check with airlines first about pet requirements

5. Prep your new home - pets may be confused by new surroundings so upon arrival set out familiar and neccessary items such as litter box, toys, water, ect.,. and have them handy so you can set out right away

6. Research the area - get info about local vets, local dog parks, rates of heartworms or Lyme disease, breeding restictions in certain cities, or vaccinations your pet might require

Posted by Jennifer Nilssen on May 28th, 2010 1:50 PMPost a Comment (0)