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Things to Do on Whidbey • September 14, 2021

Must Watch Movies and Shows Filmed on Whidbey

by Windermere Whidbey Island
Must watch movies and shows filmed on Whidbey

 

Destination Whidbey • Neighborhoods • Oak Harbor • Places • Things to Do on Whidbey • September 13, 2021

Bowman Bay

by Windermere Whidbey Island
Bowman Bay, Whidbey Island, Washington, Destination Whidbey, Local

Although not technically on Whidbey, Bowman Bay is a large part of our island’s local culture. This bay, which is located on the Fidalgo Island side of Deception Pass, has a rich history spanning back to the late 1800s. Originally a settlement to a large Samish village, the bay has since served several purposes including a military reserve and salmon hatchery. Download the CCC Scavenger Hunt for a fun way to learn some history! Between the charming old hatchery building, long dock stretching into the bay, boat launch, picnic shelters, playground, and scenic surrounding trails that provide unique views of the bridge itself, this park is one you do not want to miss! Learn more about Bowman Bay here.

Check out the rest of Whidbey’s beautiful destinations from this series here.

 

Email for more

Clinton • Coupeville • Destination Whidbey • Freeland • Greenbank • Langley • Oak Harbor • Places • Things to Do on Whidbey • July 19, 2021

Bird Watching on Whidbey Island

by Windermere Whidbey Island
Birds of Whidbey, Windermere, real estate, Whidbey Island, Island life, birdwatching

w, Birds, humming bird, Robin, Eagle

50 miles South of the U.S./Canada border and 25 miles North of Seattle lies Whidbey Island, an incomparable destination for nature lovers and bird enthusiasts. On Whidbey, you can get lost for hours and find yourself mesmerized not only by incredible views but by a breathtaking variety of birds.

Whidbey Boasts 148 miles of winding shoreline, 6 state parks, 4 lakes, hundreds of miles of trail, and a ridiculous variety of habitats from bogs to estuaries to the prairie. It is not surprising then that Whidbey accommodates roughly 250 resident and migrant bird species.

Birds of Whidbey, Views, Hikes, Trails, State Parks, Lakes, Whidbey

Birdwatchers will declare some of the best times to watch for birds on Whidbey are:

Spring:

Late April through May you can expect to be woken early by the Songbirds singing a pleasant tune.

Songbirds, Birds of Whidbey, Birdwatching, Whidbey Island

Fall:

Late July through September It is hard not to miss fat red-breasted Robins filling the apple trees and spot migrant visitors from the north like wigeons, ducks, coots, waterfowl, and red-tailed hawks.

Birds of Whidbey,

Winter:

November through mid-March is a great time of year to watch for Northern Shrike, Bald Eagles, and other raptor-type birds.

Birds of Whidbey< birdwatching, Eagles, Owls, island life

 

Best places for birdwatching:

If you are just trying to take advantage of easily accessible shoreline almost any time of year works. Some of the best places to watch for shorebirds birds on Whidbey Island are Penn Cove, Keystone Landing, Fort Casey State Park, and Dugualla Bay.

If you don’t live on Whidbey and are coming just for birdwatching be sure to schedule more than one day for viewing. Plan time so you can experience multiple locations, each with its unique features. To better understand all the places you can access the shoreline you really need to buy Getting to the Waters Edge! We sell it at our Windermere offices both in Oak Harbor and Coupeville.

Frequently asked questions:

Some people wonder if there is a time of day that birds are most animated. Typically speaking most birds are bustling around sunrise and sunset but that rule does not apply to all birds. For example, the morning is typically the best time for spotting diurnal species, while nocturnal species are generally spotted in the evening, but it really depends on the bird and the time of year.

Whidbey Island is native to species like Eagles, Northern Harriers, wading birds, loons, grebes, sea ducks, including Harlequin Ducks, dabbling ducks, Black Oystercatchers, Common Yellowthroats, Marsh Wrens, and more. It is also is a temporary home for migrant birds who frequent the island seasonally for the island’s ideal breeding habitats.  But do not be fooled. Some birds like robins, hawks, cardinals, finches, sparrows, and more stay here all year but they seem to “return” because they become active again during the spring through fall seasons after they have bundled down in their nests and shelters during the winter.

Additional resources:

To learn more about the birds that can be spotted on Whidbey and a guide for when you will likely catch a glimpse check out this detailed Whidbey Island Bird List created by the Whidbey Audubon Society.

Here are some of our favorite spots on Whidbey to watch for birds let us know your favorite spots in the comments below.

 

Clinton • Coupeville • Destination Whidbey • Freeland • Greenbank • Langley • Oak Harbor • Places • Things to Do on Whidbey • June 7, 2021

Everything You Need to Know About Riding Bikes on Whidbey Island 

by Windermere Whidbey Island
Biking on Whidbey Island, Blog, Bike, Agent, Windermere, Real Estate, Anita

Whether you are a serious road cyclist; an avid mountain biker or just someone who enjoys a scenic bike ride every now and then, Whidbey Island has got you covered. Not only are we home to miles and miles of gorgeous; low-traffic backroads and off-road trails to explore, we also have an active biking community and bike shops that’ll keep you pedaling all year long.

And remember, safety first! You can review Washington State bicycle laws here.

Bikes, Biking on whidbey, Whidbey Island =, Things to do on Whidbey, Windermere, Real Estate, Featured, Blog

Where to Road Bike on Whidbey Island

If you’re new to road biking on Whidbey Island,  this bicycling map of Whidbey Island and Camano Island is an excellent resource to help you get started. This color-coded, detailed map shows cyclists what to expect on different roads, including how many feet of shoulder is available, traffic volume, recommended roads,  the difficulty level of any hills,-, and other helpful markers.

Here are a few recommended road bike routes from the bike club to get you started:

North:

https://ridewithgps.com/routes/35094153 (20 miler from the shop, very scenic!)

https://ridewithgps.com/routes/35094160 (40 miler from the shop, scenic and challenging!)

https://ridewithgps.com/routes/35018172 ( The bike clubs Saturday morning route)

Central:

https://ridewithgps.com/routes/35094197

South:

https://ridewithgps.com/routes/35094219

 

Where to Mountain Bike on Whidbey Island

Trailforks Mountain Biking Trails on Whidbey Island: 

If you’re specifically looking for mountain bike-friendly trails, this map is a great place to start. In addition to locations and trail routes, you’ll find information on time estimates, trail conditions, distance, and climb/elevation.

Evergreen Mountain Bike Alliance:

This is another useful resource if you’re searching for mountain bike trails in the Pacific Northwest in general. There are four of Whidbey Island’s mountain biking trail systems highlighted here. You’ll find detailed maps to help you explore Putney Woods/Metcalf Trust Trails, Fort Ebey State Park/Kettles Trails, Hoypus Hill, and Dugwalla State Park.

*For route recommendations and current trail conditions contact Whidbey Island Bicycle Club here.

** For parking on state park property a Discover Pass is required, you can get one here.

Ebeys Trails, Biking on Whidbey Island, Windermere Real Estate

Bike Shops on Whidbey Island

If you’re just beginning your biking journey and need to figure out what type of bike to buy, you don’t even have to leave our island to get properly outfitted. The same is true for maintaining your bike—we’ve got experts who are ready to give your bike a tune-up when the time comes.

Skagit Cycle Center:

Skagit Cycle’s Whidbey Island location is in Oak Harbor, and this is your one-stop bike shop on Whidbey. You can buy pretty much all types of bikes here and choose from a huge selection of biking accessories and bike parts, and they also offer an extensive list of services.

Bayview Bicycles: 

Located in Langley, Bayview Bicycles offers an impressive selection of e-bikes and bike gear as well as repair services.

Biking on Whidbey, Whidbey Island, Windermere, Real Estate

How to Get Involved with the Bike Community on Whidbey Island

Whidbey Island Bicycle Club:

If you want to get involved in the local cycling community, meet other local cyclists, volunteer, or attend local group rides then Whidbey Island Bicycle Club, or WIBC is for you  WIBC is all about bringing cyclists together to ride and plan rides, advocating for safe cycling routes, developing community cycling events, mountain bike trail stewardship, and supporting community activities that involve cycling.  Riders of all levels are welcome to join. WIBC gets together for weekly road and mountain bike rides all yer long- They also have a Facebook page that is frequently updated, so make sure you hit the “like” button if you want to stay in the loop. For more detailed information about the club visit their webpage here.

Tour de Whidbey:

This popular annual summer event on Whidbey Island attracts hundreds of cyclists from all over the Puget Sound region to participate. There are several different routes you can choose from—one route is as short as 10 miles (perfect for families), and the longest route is 162 miles and winds its way around the entire perimeter of Whidbey Island. Tour de Whidbey was canceled in 2020 due to COVID-19, but plans for the 2021 Tour de Whidbey are underway. Find out more here.

Mussels in the Kettles:

This non-competitive mountain bike ride is held annually in conjunction with the Mussel Fest in Coupeville, WA. There are three routes to choose from in varying levels of difficulty that cover most of the Fort Ebey/Kettles trails network. For up-to-date information on the ride, click here, and for the Musselfest click here.

 

Searching for more fun activities on Whidbey Island? You can continue exploring our community blog here! 

 

 

Langley • Things to Do on Whidbey • April 19, 2021

The Gray Whales Return to Whidbey

by Windermere Whidbey Island
The Gray Whales Return to Whidbey

Gray Whales Return to Whidbey

As the cold melts away and flowers start to bloom again, Whidbey Island is blessed with a rare and wonderful gift. Many people hike to the very tip of a bluff or edge of the waves hoping to catch a glimpse of this phenomenon. Then it happens – water spurts into the air from nowhere and at the surface, you can just barely see a tail appear.

Oh, what a whale of a tale to tell….

Gray Whales, Whidbey, Ocean, Sea life, whale, Washington, waters, welcome Back

Spring brings with it a special excitement for this curious island. As the waters warm, they welcome back one of our favorite travelers; the gray whale! Migrating every year from their winter home in Mexico to the wild waves of Alaska; gray whales often make a special stop within the waters of the Puget Sound.

As food foragers, the gray whale “dig[s] up the mudflats [on the ocean floor] for shrimp and worms.”1 They then filter these small creatures through their baleen, or whalebone, which acts as a strainer to keep the food in their mouth and push out all the water.2

Given their foraging requirements, gray whales’ proximity to the shore and repetitive presence in the Puget Sound comes as little surprise. While the average depth of the Pacific Ocean is a little over 12,000 feet, Puget Sound’s deepest point is approximately 930 feet. The shallow waters of the sound serve as a great benefit to this massive mammal that relies on both oxygen and access to the ocean floor in order to survive.

On Whidbey Island, we take great joy in the return of these travelers every year. Many islanders and tourists alike find their way to the water’s edge and peer into the waves in hopes of a glimpse. Luckily, sightings are not at all uncommon on the island. To commemorate the love we have for these ocean friends, both Coupeville and Langley have erected what is called a “Whale Bell.” These bells have a simple instruction: “See a whale, ring the bell.” These bells serve as both a monument to the whale’s impact on our island culture and a creative way to notify others of the whale’s presence so they can also look out and see!

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A post shared by Burt Beusch (@burt_beusch)

Every year the town of Langley has pulled together to commemorate the beginning of whale season. Complete with a parade, this festival speaks volumes of the love islanders have for their precious whales. Unfortunately, the event has been canceled this year due to covid for the health and safety of the community continue to check back here for updates. While the ring of the bell brings joyous memories of years past residences and travelers alike look forward to a day where gatherings return to celebrate these incredible creatures.

 

References

  1. “Gray Whales.” Orca Network, https://www.orcanetwork.org/Main/index.php?categories_file=Gray%20Whales
  2. “Gray Whales.” National Geographic, https://www.nationalgeographic.com/animals/mammals/g/gray-whale/

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Water Sports on Whidbey, Tori, Kayaking

Uncategorized • March 8, 2021

Woman Owned Businesses on Whidbey

by Windermere Whidbey Island
Woman Owned Brokerage

Happy International Women’s Day!

International Women’s Day is a global day meant to celebrate the achievements of women across the world and call to action greater gender equality. This year we wanted to celebrate the day by highlighting just a few phenomenal women-owned businesses on Whidbey Island, starting with our own brokerage owner – Kristen Stavros!

Windermere Whidbey |  32785 WA-20 #4, Oak Harbor, WA 98277

Women Owned Business, Kristen Stavros, Windermere Real Estate, Whidbey Island, National Womans day

Kristen Stavros is the Co-Owner of Windermere Real Estate Whidbey Island. After spending years as an agent and then managing broker, Kristen stepped into the new role as owner in 2019. Since then she has been the spearhead visionary for the Windermere Whidbey brokerage as well as inspiring change and diversity among all of Windermere. 

CreAda’s Hair and Wig Salon | 910 SE Pioneer Way, Oak Harbor, WA 98277

Windermere Whidbey Island

Ada Moseley is the owner and head stylist for CreAda’s Hair and Wig Salon. With over 20 years of experience in the industry, she is a stylist that provides the highest level of hair care and knowledge to her clients.

Bayshore Chiropractic | 840 SE Bayshore Dr # 101, Oak Harbor, WA 98277

Windermere Real estate

Dr. Dawn is a much-loved and respected chiropractor on Whidbey Island. With over 20 years of experience and genuine compassion for her clients; she provides outstanding quality service that is hard to find elsewhere.  

Frida’s | 721 SE Pioneer Way, Oak Harbor, WA 98277

Windermere Real estate, Whidbey Island, Woman

Naomi Gamboa Schneider is the owner and operator of Frida’s Arts & Craft store. She has a deep passion for creativity and talks readily about how her store, which features all kinds of great paper and art supplies, is the realization of a long-held dream.

Seaside Salon and Spa | 5 Front St NW, Coupeville, WA 98239

Windermere Blog, Aaron Wiley

Aaron Wiley’s Seaside Spa and Salon is known for being a place of deep relaxation and joy. With a number of stylists, nail techs, massage therapists, and estheticians; Seaside Spa and Salon’s repertoire of services is sure to impress.

Orlando’s Bar + Southern BBQ | 656 SE Bayshore Dr. Ste 1, Oak Harbor, WA 98277

Orlandos, oak harbor, Washington

Ms. Jackie had nothing more than two cast iron pots, a tent, and a vision when she started the now-beloved Orlando’s Bar and Southern BBQ. Whether you’re looking for the best-grilled catfish on the island or just a friendly upbeat atmosphere, Orlando’s is an establishment you do not want to miss.

3 Sisters Market | 779 N Holbrook Rd, Coupeville, WA 98239

3 sisters Market, real estate, Whidbey island

It is honestly hard to imagine Whidbey Island without the multi-generational 3 Sister’s Farm. In 2013, Roshel and her sisters added to their legacy when they opened 3 Sister’s Market which is dedicated to offering customers the best selection of products from the most local sources. 

Little Town Cottage | 851 SE Pioneer Way, Suite #102 Oak Harbor, WA, 98277

Little Town Cottage, Oak Harbor, Washington, Whidbey Island

Maria Rodriguez is the founder and visionary of the incredible soap shop, Little Town Cottages. With a dream to build a business she can pass down to her children, Maria started her store in 2018 by selling home decor, gift ideas, and body products. The community fell in love with her creative soap creations, and she now has expanded her store.

Collections Boutique | 24 Front St NE, Coupeville, WA 98239

Jennifer, whidbey island, Woman Owned Businesses

Jennifer Bachmann is the owner and operator of Coupeville Front Street’s Collections Boutique. This quaint store, situated in a historic 1887 building, carries a variety of clothing lines, jewelry, accessories, and baby gifts for consumers. 

Forage | No Physical Location

Forage , oak harbor, whidbey island, Washington

Anyone who has seen a bouquet by Lexi Ochoa knows this woman has an absolute talent for floral arrangements. Lexi’s bouquets are not only stunning, but they also are locally sourced. Forage uses small farms, gardens, and found flowers as much as possible in her arrangements which make them unique and last a great deal longer than other bouquets.

Map to Woman-Owned Businesses on Whidbey:

If you enjoyed this blog you might also enjoy reading:

Black Owned Businesses on whidbey

Real Estate • Stats • February 22, 2021

Q4 | 2020 Gardner Report

by Windermere Whidbey Island

Real Estate • January 28, 2021

Buying Vacant Land on Whidbey Island

by Windermere Whidbey Island
Land, purchasing land, searching for land, Windermere, Real estate, Realtors

If you have always dreamed of building your own home, choosing your own layout, selecting dream finishes, and want all your desires in a home met then you will be looking for vacant land. This is a completely different world than buying a preexisting home where there is complete certainty when it comes to electricity, water, sewage, and condition. Uncertainty is not comfortable for everyone so let’s make sure you feel prepared and empowered.

Buying Vacant Land on Whidbey Island, Dream Home, Whidbey Island

First and foremost, if you ask anyone who has built their own home, they will tell you that even if you build a home from scratch you will not end up with a 100% perfect house. There are always compromises and unforeseen issues with layout, etc. Remember, vacant land is scarce and becoming scarcer, so if you find the perfect property with an imperfect house, perhaps you can consider a major remodel.

When buying vacant land, it is all about the level of certainty a parcel can provide you. A parcel that already has a water source, septic system, access/driveway, building site laid out, and electrical nearby is going to be extremely rare.  Such a parcel will cost more because of the time and expenses already invested by the seller. There is also inherent value in the confidence you as a buyer can have that you will not run into complications that may make the land unsuitable for development.

Below are our TOP 5 recommendations when considering buying vacant land:

Buying Vacant Land on Whidbey Island, Vacant land, build your dream home, Windermere, Real Estate

Find a vacant land purchasing specialist.

Buying vacant land on Whidbey Island, Land Specialist, windermere Real Estate, Best of Whidbey

Complex is the word that comes to mind when thinking about vacant land purchases. Having a trusted guide who loves the complexity that comes with purchasing land is something you really want. Many brokers groan when they think about helping buyers with vacant land but there are a special few who just dig it! Find them! It will make all the difference. If you need a recommendation just call (360) 675-5953 and ask for a recommendation on a vacant land specialist from the manager.

 

Know your corners.

Buying vacant land on Whidbey Island, Land Specialist, windermere Real Estate, Best of Whidbey, Know your corners

In the best-case scenario, there has been a survey done and the corners are clearly marked with modern official survey markers however, this is rare. You may need to negotiate to have this done by the Seller. There are other signs that can give an idea of where property lines fall though. One of the coolest technologies that most agents have nowadays is an app that uses geo-spatial technology to locate your position on a map in relation to property lines. An old-fashioned surveyor’s tape measure can help as well if you have a marker of some sort to start from. Fence lines, survey tape marking trees or branches, driveways, and other identifiers can give clues. Nothing beats a proper survey though and you are going to want that when it comes time to build.

 

Get as certain as possible on the big 5.

Buying vacant land on Whidbey Island, Land Specialist, windermere Real Estate, Best of Whidbey

Water, sewage, electricity, access, and building envelope. These are the big 5 mysteries when you first look at a raw and overgrown piece of land. The more that these 5 things have been figured out and addressed by the Seller, the more valuable the property is. You are buying risk when these 5 are unknown. You cannot avoid risk completely but figuring out as much as you can about these 5 will help you move forward more confidently.

 

Work with a local builder.

Buying vacant land on Whidbey Island, Land Specialist, windermere Real Estate, Best of Whidbey, work with a builder

Get the local builder to the lot sooner than later. Reputable builders on Whidbey will be able to help you through the feasibility process, have a great instinct for what is possible, contacts to get specialists out to the property, and experience working with Island County’s Building department. Here are 5 builders we recommend in no particular order…

    1. Cascade Custom Homes
    2. Yonkman Construction
    3. Nautilus Construction
    4. Waldron Construction
    5. Turpin Construction

 

Know your critical areas.

Buying vacant land on Whidbey Island, Land Specialist, windermere Real Estate, Best of Whidbey, Critical areas

Shorelines, native American artifacts, endangered animals and plants, steep slopes and bluffs, wetlands, and streams will affect the property in big ways. There are large set-back requirements for structures, wells, and septic systems around critical areas. You may get into a situation where you do not have much of a choice about where you can position your building site. These unknowns must be understood before you decide to close on the lot. Your Realtor can help you navigate this maze.

 

Each property is unique, and we could share a lot more with you on the topic of buying vacant land on Whidbey, but the truth is that the best thing you can do is find yourself an excellent guide who will help you assess what it is you are really looking for and how to narrow down the search. Good luck and do not forget your muck boots!

 

PHOTOS BY: Kelsey Kurtis

Real Estate • January 15, 2021

How to Become a Licensed Real Estate Broker in Washington

by Windermere Whidbey Island
How to become a licensed real estate agent in washington

Step by Step, How to Become a Licensed Real Estate Broker in Washington

 

  1. Pick a school and do your 90 hours of course work. At Windermere, we recommend Rockwell Institute because it is consistent and has proven success at getting people prepared to pass the exam. Current cost $489 (January 2021).
    1. HOT TIP: There is an add on to get sample exams and extra cramming practice. GET IT!
  2.  Do the following steps as you get closer to completing the 90 hours to break up the studying with actions that will prepare you for taking the exam and getting licensed…
  3. Fingerprints! The closest location to Whidbey Island is in Mt. Vernon. You can schedule your appointment on this IdentoGO site. At the time of this blog post (January 2021), it cost $42.80 for the fingerprints and background check. Go to this DOL site for more info.
  4. Set up a SAW account (Secure Access Washington) if you haven’t already for your driver’s license. For more info: https://www.dol.wa.gov/business/accountaccess.html
  5. Register as a student with AMP through psi here https://ampportal.goamp.com/School/SchoolUser/WAREPStudentRegistration.aspx
  6. Register for the exam. Cost $138.25 https://online.goamp.com/CandidateHome/examination.aspx?p_category=REAL%20ESTATE&p_client_code=WAREP&p_exam_id=21311
  7. Once you’ve passed the exams apply for your license! https://secureaccess.wa.gov/myAccess/saw/select.do

 

* Contact the WA DOL Real Estate licensing department if you need extra help. We recommend emailing them instead of calling for a faster response. https://www.dol.wa.gov/business/realestate/contact.html

 

Follow these suggestions to get yourself mentally and physically ready to launch your real estate career:

 

  1. Pick a brokerage.                                                                                                                                Pick a brokerage, Windermere, real estate                                                                                                                                                           Interview the top brokerages in your area. Since the real estate exam process doesn’t really give you what you need to serve people or build your own business you want to join a brokerage with a robust training program and ongoing support. Schedule a no-pressure introduction meeting with our brokerage today! Email us at WhidbeyCommunications@Windermere.com to do so.
  2. Change your phone number to a local area code if it is not already. Nowadays all cell phones have caller ID and everyone is screening calls from out of state numbers. Do not confuse people, all real estate is local and your phone number should be too.
  3. If you are beginning your real estate career in November or December then now is a great time to start collecting mailing addresses for Christmas cards.
  4. Read some books. We give one of our favorites out a lot!
  5. Snoop on the local real estate brokers.                                                                                    snoop the local brokers, become an agent                                                                                                                                                                 What do you see that you like, what don’t you like? Take note! Social media is one good place to find a broker then check out top brokers’ web pages. If you don’t know any go to the website of the brokerage you’re thinking about, head to the agent’s page, and start clicking links. Ours is right here!
  6. Interview brokers you admire. Take a broker that catches your attention online for a cup of coffee (they really do like it!). Ask them all the questions but more importantly LISTEN. Some suggested questions are…              Interview, How to become a licensed broker in Washington
    1. What do you like most about being a real estate broker? Least?
    2. What do you like most about your brokerage? Least?
    3. What advice would you give someone like me who is just getting into the business?
  7. Download our guide to 5 things you can do to give yourself a head start here.

 

Real Estate • October 26, 2020

Moving with Pets

by Windermere Whidbey Island
Moving with Pets, Don Jaques, Pets, Dog, Pet lovers

We all know moving can be stressful…

Moving with Petsbut have you stopped to consider how a move can affect your pets?

Here are a couple of suggestions to consider while moving to help make the transition easier on both you and your pets.

Contact Your Vet:

Let your pets’ vet know that you will be moving. Your vet can provide you good information on the best way to move with your pet and make sure you have enough medications for the duration of the trip. They can answer any questions you have and they might even be able to help you find a good vet in your new location if you are moving out of the area. Do not forget to get your pet’s records before you move.

Best Friend’s Veterinary Center

33285 WA-20, Oak Harbor, WA 98277
(360) 679-6796

North Whidbey Veterinary Hospital

1020 NE 7th Ave #4, Oak Harbor, WA 98277
(360) 679-3772

Penn Cove Veterinary Clinic

107 S Main St, Coupeville, WA 98239
(360) 678-6046

Central Whidbey Veterinary Services Inc

771 Patmore Rd, Coupeville, WA 98239
(360) 678-1881

Create a Moving Kit:

Gather supplies to keep your pet comfortable during the travel and supplies on hand for the first several days of unpacking.

  • Pet food
  • Food, Water, and Bowls
  • Medication
  • Grooming tools
  • Toys
  • Blanket
  • Poop Bags
  • Leash
  • Treats
  • Documentation and a picture

The Day of Packing:

Our pets feel anxieties, just like we do when things change around them. It is best during a move if you can keep them away from all the action. A simple option is often putting them in a kennel or letting them stay with a friend. If you cannot or do not want to do either of those; try making a quiet room in the house where they can safely stay away from all the hustle and bustle. It is also important to check on them often and try to walk them when you normally would.

Things to remember:

  • Make sure they have enough ventilation
  • Make sure they are not too hot or too cold
  • Make sure they have enough food and water
  • Let them have some toys

 
Taking Your Pet With You:

Moving With Pets

When possible, it’s best to travel with your pet to curb their anxiety. There are a lot of factors to consider when deciding the best way to transport your pet such as their age, temperament, size, and species. Regardless, it’s always important to ensure your pet’s safety when traveling which is why we have included a few links below with helpful pet gadgets.

Do Not Go Off-Leash in Unfamiliar Areas:

Moving With Pets, Walking Dog, On leash, Whidbey Island, Parks on Whidbey

Remember that new locations mean unfamiliar areas. If your pet gets out while traveling they might get lost. Additionally, when you get to your new home it is important that you take the time to be with your pet to discover the new area so they don’t get lost and can find there way back to their new home. This is also an important reason to bring documentation and a picture of your pet with you in case they get lost.

Introduce One Room at a Time with Familiar Items:

Consider setting up one room first with familiar items for your pet to stay in while you prepare the rest of the house. Give your pet a lot of attention and slowly introduce them to each new room giving them plenty of time to adjust to their new surroundings and familiarize themselves with the new setting. You also might consider crating them when you leave them alone for the first few weeks. New environments can cause pets to break house training.

Things to do When You Get to Your New Location:

Moving with Pets

You might also like:
Dog Parks On Whidbey, Windermere Whidbey, Whidbey Island

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