Pets provide companionship. There are few things more satisfying than the attention and affection of a good friend. Wagging tails, contented purrs, and adoring looks are all ways companion animals communicate with people and demonstrate their devotion. Many people talk to their pets and consider them members of the family. So when you are moving, your pet should be well taken care of.

Besides the empty boxes, unfamiliar faces and strange noises confronting pets, they're often traumatized by the more jarring experiences of a plane ride, a lengthy car trip and completely new surroundings with which to become acquainted -- not to mention a new water source to which their stomachs must become accustomed.

Pet owners are often baffled by their animal's behaviour during and after a move. Sometimes it's a personality change, a regression in housebreaking habits or a sudden unexplained illness.

Even if you don't notice something that dramatic, there's no question that your faithful companion is feeling stress. How do you move your pet and keep the strain to an absolute minimum -- both to yourself and your beloved pet?

Leaving on a jet plane...

If you're planning a cross-country move by air, call the airlines first -- before you make any reservations -- and find out which ones allow pets as "animal passengers." Approximately 750,000 pets make airline trips every year.

Most of the major airlines will allow animal passengers provided outdoor temperatures are within a certain range. Pets may be brought on board with their owners as "carry-on baggage," or placed within the cargo section of a plane as "checked baggage," weather permitting.

Airlines also have established regulations regarding the number of pets permitted per flight, both on board and in the cargo section; as well as number of pets permitted per passenger; and size and weight limitations for carry on and checked baggage. If at all possible, book a direct flight to avoid the additional stress of plane changes.

If you're contemplating having your pet travel in the cargo section of the plane, you may want to consider first that because this area is in the belly of the plane, you won't have access to your pet at any time during the flight.

While the cargo area is both heated and pressurized, this area isn't lit, so unless you tranquilize your pet first, the experience is likely to be traumatic. And you should note that the safety of some varieties of tranquilizers has been questioned. These substances can have a dramatically different effect upon your pet at high altitudes.

Planning your move

Several weeks before your move, find out what the regulations are in your new home state regarding the importation of animals. These laws often vary from state to state and even among counties.

As your moving date approaches, try to maintain your pet's routine, including feeding, exercise and play times. When you begin to box up your belongings, and particularly when the movers arrive, you may want to consider recruiting a friend to pet-sit to avoid undue stress for your companion. Make sure your pet is wearing updated identification, and that you're carrying some kind of identification for your pet, including recent photos. If your pet escapes at any time during your move, you'll be prepared.

Veterinarians also recommend that you pack a water supply from the home you're leaving. Changing water sources could cause your pet stomach upset and ultimately, dehydration. Keep your pet's food as bland as possible; this isn't the time to experiment with new brands or varieties.

Check with your vet for his or her recommendations. Bring your pet for a thorough physical exam prior to your move, and make sure you obtain your pet's updated records from your vet.