Simple steps to moving your pet with ease.
Most people agree that moving is stressful. You’re surrounded by an endless sea of boxes and you have more items on your “to-do” list than minutes in a day. Sometimes we can get so wrapped up in moving that we forget about our beloved pets. We hope that moving them will go smoothly and they will adjust to their new environment but honestly, we just don’t know how it will all turn out.
Rather than hope for the best, let us help you make this move the best for your pet. We’ve put together a helpful list of easy ways you can make your pets moving experience as painless and stress-free as possible.
Before the Move
- If you’re moving out of town, let your vet know as soon as possible. They will give you any records or prescriptions you need. They may even recommend a vet in your new area!
- Put together a simple “overnight kit” that includes food, toys, medication, kitty litter (if needed), and anything that will keep your pet happy during the first few days of unpacking.
During the Move
- Your pet will be less stressed if you keep them in the quietest area possible. If you can’t leave them with a friend or at a kennel during the moving process, try leaving them in an empty bedroom or in a kennel in the garage. Check on them often! Seeing your familiar face, taking them on their regular walks, and feeding them at their normal eating time will help keep them stay calm.
- Pets get motion sickness too! If your trip is less than eight hours, you won’t need to feed your cat. In fact, most pets won’t eat in a moving vehicle. When you stop for a rest break, offer your dog a light feeding and plenty of water.
- Always place your pet in a kennel. This will give them a stronger sense of security and ease their stress. Consider placing a blanket over your pet’s crate so they won’t get anxious as the scenery changes.
- Keep your pet in the kennel until you are safely inside your new home. Anxious pets may take off into an unfamiliar neighborhood and get lost.
- Try and move/set up as much as you can before introducing your pet to their new home. Once they are in their new environment, show them their familiar toys and blankets and spend as much time as possible helping your pet feel safe and secure.
After the Move
- Don’t forget to update your pet’s tags or microchip information with your new address and phone number.
- Find a new vet as soon as possible and transfer all necessary records and prescriptions.
- Don’t let your pets roam the neighborhood. Take them on walks and let them explore on a leash.
Moving can be stressful, but it’s also exciting. While you can’t prepare for everything, you can follow these suggestions for a much smoother transition. It won’t be long before everyone is settled and enjoying their new home and neighborhood together.