Moving with a Pet: Things You Need to Research First

So you have decided to move to another city or state because of a job or other issues. You have probably checked out schools, playgrounds and shopping venues in various areas of the city or state you are moving to. If you have pets that will be moving with you, don't forget to research some very important topics for them as well. You may save yourself some heartache by "knowing before you go."

What are the Pet Ordinances?

Each city or community can regulate their own pet ordinances no matter what the state law is. You may not agree with what you find out about a certain city, but you will have to comply once you live there. Each city has the right to have an ordinance that states how many pets you are allowed to have. Some are very lenient, while some are almost ridiculous. Unless you are willing to give up a family pet, make sure you are not moving somewhere that only allows two pets per household if you have more than that.

In Illinois, there is legislature that states that it is against the law to discriminate against breeds of dogs. Certain breeds, such as pit bulls, come under fire all of the time. Check the state legislature and the town's ordinance to see what it says about number and breed of pets you are allowed to have.

I once lived in a small community that did not require pets to be licensed. I moved to a bigger city and never even thought about my dog being with me. After several weeks, I got a letter from the city stating that I either license the dog, or animal control would remove him. I quickly went and got the license and explained that I had no idea I needed one.

If the city you are moving to requires licensing of your pet, you will need to provide current shot records and any micro chip numbers. Each pet will receive a tag to wear so that if the pet is lost and found, the city will be able to contact you. The fee for each license is not a lot, and is usually determined by the city council or animal control board.

Pet Friendly Neighborhoods

You certainly don't want to be the only one in the neighborhood that has a dog. It is best to drive around different areas and see if there are people walking pets. It is your right to live wherever you want, but everyone will be much happier if you choose a pet friendly neighborhood over one where you are the only household that has pets.

People in pet friendly neighborhoods will be more helpful in telling you where the best dog parks and pet supply stores are. Pet friendly neighborhoods are more tolerant if your dog happens to escape, because it has probably happened to them. They will be more apt to help you look, or grab your pet if they see him, instead of calling animal control.

You do research to make sure your children are going to be happy and safe in certain neighborhoods before you choose one to move to. Don't forget to do research to make sure your pet will be happy, safe and welcome in certain areas too. Moving is stressful on a family. Doing your research first may just lessen the stress for everyone, including your pets.