Your Pet's Moving Day

Your new house is almost closed and you are ready to move. Pets can become stressed and upset  during this time and a few tips can make their move  a smooth transition.

1.  Your veterinarian will be a  source for medications or sedations that may be required for air or car  travel.  It's a good idea to have your pet's vaccination record with you and all shots and records current.

2.  It's advised to feed your dog at least four hours prior to travel.  Adult dogs and puppies can get car sick.

3.  If possible, stop along with way frequently for short play/exercise/potty breaks and offer water.

4. Bring familiar bedding, toys and food.  Try  to set them up in the new house right away to make your pet feel more secure in the new environment.   If you pet sleeps in your bedroom, set up there and close to something familiar.  Serve him/her the same foods as previously.  Wait  to introduce new or different foods.   It may take some time for your pet to adjust to eating in the new home.  Be sure your pet has access to plenty of water.

5.  Spend a little extra time at play with your pet and resume normal walk and play times as soon as possible.   Your pet will feel at home much quicker and appreciate the attention.

6. Be prepared;  locate veterinarian and pet emergency services just in case. Emergencies and accidents are more likely to happen when your pet is stressed.

2010 - Not your Grandfather's Real Estate Market !

Welcome to 2010 and the best home buyer's opportunity we are likely to see in your lifetime and mine.  Thanks to the information age we have been flooded with advice both good and not so good.  Consider this:

• Despite rumors to the contrary, banks and mortgage companies are open for business and are  lending money to qualified buyers.  Although lending guidelines have tightened,  loans are being funded in record numbers.  Lenders are hiring more workers to underwrite and process loans !


• Zero and low down financing programs are available.


• Home prices are much lower. Mortgage interest rates are at historic lows which should put a  smile on your face and give you bragging rights at social events for the rest of your life.


• First time buyers in particular can jump in the shallow water now  and ride the wave upward.


• Experts recently estimated ( and announced on K5 News ) we will see a 30 - 40% increase in property values by 2014 here in the Pierce, Kitsap, King County region.