Moving ranks high on lists of stressful activities. Even when you're happy to move, it's still a big change. But it's not stressful just for you. Your dog or cat is certainly going to be fretting about what's up! Here's how to make life easier for Fido and Tiger:

If you're moving to an entirely new city, start your pre-planning early. Be certain to:

- Take Maxie to his regular veterinarian for a checkup before the move. Keep a record of it with your moving papers. If he runs away in his new city or neighborhood, you might need this for identification or to prove he's had all his shots.

- Request from the vet a tranquilizer for moving day-for your pet!

- Obtain a carrier or cage to transport your pet or house him during the traveling process.

For a shorter move: Call the licensing bureau at your new location. Apply for a pet license and a new ID tag. Bone up on the local pet laws.

- For an interstate move: Each state has a designated veterinarian. If you're moving to a new state, check the American Veterinary Medical Association for the name of the state vet for your new state, and learn the local statutes.

Air travel: Call the airline for regulations on transporting your pet. Container sizes and characteristics are often described very specifically, and you don't want to arrive at the airport and have your pet turned away.

Car travel: Keep a restraining harness on T-Boy. It's impossible to predict whether the uncertainty he feels will cause him to bolt while you're at a rest stop. And if you go indoors for a meal, never leave Lady in a parked, closed vehicle during warm weather. Your car's interior temperature will quickly pass 100 degrees.

Even if you're just moving locally, you still need to make the transition easier for your pet. Confine Rex or Mitzi to a room that's out of the way of the hullabaloo on moving day. He'll be confused and upset by this mysterious activity.

When you get to your new destination, have some of Smokey's favorite toys ready for him. Lay out his bed, and toss in a shirt that carries your scent. While you're busy, he'll be able to lie quietly with your reassuring smell in his nostrils. Be certain to have his bowls, food, and water handy. For Chloe, keep her indoors and have her litter box right where she can find it.

Check the new place for health hazards-look for any cords with worn insulation, cleaning fluids that are poisonous to your pet, any tools that can be pulled down on him accidentally.

We know you'll be tired-but take some time to play with Buster and Babette. It will make them feel reassured to have some interaction with you. And believe it or not, it will relax you as well!

This article has been contributed by Automated Homefinder - a Boulder Devil's Thumb website. To search for Boulder homes, or Longmont real estate, simply start your home search now.