Way ahead of schedule, I am now moving to San Diego at the end of the week. Unfortunate familial issues have mandated that I pack my car up with any belongings I can fit, as well as two cats (Selphie and Tweak), two mice (Biscuit and Bellatrix), 20 gallon aquarium complete with assorted fish(all with names, but so many to type), and my betta Fernando. My Dad has come through for me yet again and, at a week's notice, is flying out to make the forty hour drive with me and help keep the animals in line.
I'm deciding to let go of the bad and embrace the good. I will be opening my pet-sitting business preferably by the end of the month. I have a partial business plan, a custom logo courtesy of LogoSnap.com, a business name, and small loan already in place. I am transferring to a California location with my dog training job, ensuring I have at least a small income.
I leave behind family I don't mind getting away from, and family and friends I'll miss and call frequently. My two boys, cats I hand-raised since they were three days old, are staying in Ohio as well. That is one particular pain that will take a while to heal. Veronica had her twins right as I announced the move, and though she will be having some difficulties she was supportive. Altogether, it is a bittersweet but much needed change in my life.
In order to travel with so many pets, it took some innovation and restraint on my part. I devised a system to move my tropical fish, which consists of trash bags, spring water, a Marina battery-powered air pump, styrofoam cooler, and API Stress Coat. My betta will ride along in the cup holder, in his original plastic cup, while his 3.5 gallon tank gets packed in the back. Cutting down my library and wardrobe, I've made room for a little runway for the cats complete with a large comfy bed. Their litter pan will be behind a seat, their carrier behind the opposite one if they need to hide. They both will get Rescue Remedy for anxiety in their water, pheromone stress-relief collars, and little harnesses with leashes secured to d-rings to give them freedom to move while doubling as seat belts. Collapsible water bowls and jars of chicken baby food round up their cozy travel prep. Cat-friendly hotels were relatively easy to find.
I will update along the trip, since I'm sure I'll have stories to tell. Not only will it be interesting traveling with so many animals in one car, but my Dad and I will most likely encounter some strange people and places.
