Moving is always a challenge, but when you are to relocate with pets, it may be really stressful. However, proper planning and preparation can make your furry friends’ transition smooth and seamless. What should you do to avoid a shake-up of your pets’ routine? We have compiled a list of tips to help you arrange everything for a tension-free relocation.
Prepare your moving supplies in advance.
Whatever you are going to use for the coming transition – a container or a special crate – make sure your pet sees it before the move. The same refers to other packing accessories you are going to use. Pets love to play with new things – so let them explore empty boxes and have some fun with bubbled wraps. It will enable your animals to study all new things in advance, and they will not disrupt or attack them on the day of the move. Besides, they will be less nervous if they need to travel in temporary shelter, as they already know it.
Keep their routine unchanged
Cats, dogs and other animals have their habits. If these are interrupted, a pet’s anxiety grows. As a rule, the relocation takes all your attention, and you are tempted to skip everyday things your pets have gotten used to. Even if it does not seem to bring any obvious harm to them, even the slightest change will be immediately reflected in the behavior and mood of your pet. Do not contribute to the overall moving stress and keep up with your pet’s schedule – feed them in time, take them for a walk and play with them.
Entertain your furred pets
The move adds more tasks and errands to everyone, but it is vital not to forget about your pet. Your furred friend is very sensitive – it feels all your worries and will immediately feel less loved if you ignore it. No matter how busy you are, make sure you find a little time to devote to your pet. You will also benefit from this mutual interaction, as pets are our best stress antidotes. An extra walk or just a short play session will keep your pets occupied and happy. If you struggle to squeeze these into your schedule – consider using a dog walker service or just ask your friend for help.
Arrange pet-friendly space
Move and mess are often synonyms. Piles of things and boxes, dismantled furniture, and other endless packages transform everything into unavoidable clutter. Do not forget that your pet may feel lost and disoriented in this chaos. Your task is to keep at least a little place comfortable for your dog or cat to allow him to be calm and happy. It is enough to use just a small room for this purpose or even a tiny corner. In some cases, it would be the best option to ask your friends or relatives to keep your pet for a few days to distance it from the move’s havoc.
Make pet’s transportation safe
It often happens that your pet is along for the move. In this case, it is vital to organize its space for the trip. The cages or crates must be well fixed, do not forget about special blankets or water during the relocation. When it comes to a long-distance move, consider hiring a pet transportation company. They have everything you may need for safe and stress-free delivery of your pet to your new home. These companies may have a lot of specific requirements, so you need to check on them in advance to avoid issues.
Talk to your pet’s vet
No matter how well you prepare for your move and how calm your pet is, this day is going to be stressful anyway. A specialist will provide you with enough hints on reducing your pet’s anxiety level. The best approach is to visit the vet well in advance of your move and check whether your pet is in good health and has all vaccinations. You will also get recommendations on stress-reduction therapy. You will also need to have a certificate with all medical records if you are moving for a longer distance and will have to look for a new vet.
Check pet laws on a new space
If you are relocating to a new city, take time to find out if there are any special pet laws. Sometimes, neighborhood and communities may have very unexpected demands and norms –licenses, vaccines and even restrictions or a complete ban on some breeds and species. So exclude unwanted surprises before you turn up with a cat or dog in a new place. It is better to take precautions and avoid being caught off guard.
Prepare a health kit for your pet
It is not only water and food that you need to get ready for the time of the move. You need to have an emergency kit at hand in case your pet is unwell or overstressed. So you can pack a special moving bag with blankets, treats and even favorite toys of your friend. Keeping all these necessities in one place will save you time and effort. You can also add paper towels, wet wipes and disposable plastic bags to clean up when needed.
Note moving rules for different pets
There are many additional nuances when it comes to the type of pet you need to relocate. If it is enough to have a spacious crate or carrier for a dog or cat, then smaller pets need more precautions. Hamsters and other pet rodents need safe cages with all sharp objects removed, enough ventilation, and without direct sunlight. If you need to relocate an aquarium with fish, make sure to place them in plastic bags filled with water and transport these in a special safe container. Birds will be fine in their cages if you secure these well with a seatbelt and provide them with enough air and shade.
Make your new home pet-friendly
One of the most important things is to make your pet feel comfortable and safe in its new home. The first step is to ensure there are no hazards in a new space – check all windows, doors, and balconies to prevent your pet from falling out or jumping over them. Check the yard to exclude potential escape routes and dangerous plants. And only then slowly introduce your pet to its new dwelling. Be patient – your furred pet will now need to go through some adjustment period before it feels at home.
Moving with pets can be troublesome if you do not approach it correctly. We believe this small plan will help you make your move smoother and less exhausting, and your little friends will feel loved and happy in a new home.