Whether you’re moving across the country or across the city, you know that the experience can be stressful not only for you but for your pets. To make your move as stress-free as possible for you and your four-legged friends, we’ve put together a list of tips for moving with pets.
Update ID Tags and Microchips
Prior to your moving date, make sure that your pets are fitted with updated ID tags and that the information on your microchips is correct. In the unlikely event that your pet becomes lost during the moving process, this will increase the chance that they are returned to you safely at your new home.
Plan for the Trip to Your New House
Whether you’re driving, flying, or using any other form of transportation, having a carsick pet can make the journey infinitely more difficult. If your pet is prone to car or plane-sickness, talk to your veterinarian about your options for dealing with it.
Secure Your Pets on Moving Day
On the day of your move, make sure that your pet is secured in a crate or closed room. Between strangers coming and going from the house and doors and gates being left open, it can be a stressful experience for your pet. Which can increase the chance of accidentally lost patient. If a crate or closed room is not an option, it would be a good idea to keep your pet with a friend or at a pet hotel for the duration of the move.
Take Time for Breaks
If you will be driving to your new location, make sure to take plenty of breaks during the trip. Giving your pet time to stretch their legs and spending time out of the car will help keep them calm and relaxed during the duration of the drive.
Introduce to the New Home Slowly
During the time the movers are bringing your future into the house, be sure to once again keep your pet secured in a crate or separate room. Once everything is in the house, give your pet time to become comfortable in the new surroundings. To do this, slowly allow them to explore each room in the house. If they seem overwhelmed with the space, limit them to a few rooms until they become more relaxed, and then reintroduce the spaces again.
Medications
There are some worthwhile medications that can calm the patient through the difficult times of pre-, during and post ‘move’ times. For some of our four-legged companions, stress can cause significant health problems.
The moving process will never be easy, but following these tips for moving with pets can eliminate unnecessary stress.