"We're moving" is one of the most common excuses given when owners leave their pets at the shelter. You can imagine how hard it is on an animal to be left behind. A pet may live 10 to 15 years, and most people don't live in one place that long. Moving with pets can be a problem, but the time to consider these problems is before you adopt a pet.

     If you are a renter, it can be very difficult to find a landlord who will allow pets. If you own a pet, you'll have to restrict your choice of apartments to those where pets are allowed, and an extra damage deposit may be required. A pet who is neutered, tagged, and well behaved may help get a negative landlord in a positive mood, but if you aren't very careful to see that your dog isn't annoying the neighbors with constant barking or your cat shredding the drapes, you may find yourself looking for a new home sooner than planned.

     Moving with a pet can be expensive. If you don't have a place to live lined up in the new city, you'll have to board your pet at a kennel in the new area while you look around. If you move a long distance, it may not be practical to take a pet in the car. Air freight charges, the cost of a sturdy pet carrier, and the expense of a visit to the veterinarian for a health certificate all add up.

     If you can't deal with the difficulties or expense of moving with a pet, don't adopt one in the first place. Save yourself the guilt and heartbreak of leaving part of the family behind, and save a dog or cat the sadness of being rejected.