Lori and her family are planning to move. In all the planning, packing, and preparing to relocate, she noticed that her cat has been acting differently. Hiding more often and not finishing her meals, and spending much more time grooming his fur. What’s going on with Whiskers? Could the move be affecting him as well?
It’s no secret that moving can be a stressful experience. But it’s important to realize that the changes in routine, new sights and smells, and changes in an environment can also be stressful for our furry friends! Our pets are members of our families, and we want to streamline the moving process so it’s less stressful for everyone (including you, Whiskers!).
If you’re a pet owner with a move on the horizon, how can you ensure your furbabies (or feathered or scaly friends) are safe and comfortable throughout the process? Uncertainty can take a toll on everyone, but proper preparation helps you and your pets navigate the process smoothly. In this article, we’ll provide pro tips for moving with pets to help make the experience successful.
Preparing Your Pet for the Move
Preparation is key for any move. There are a lot of steps in the timeline of getting ready for moving day, from deciding between DIY and hiring a professional mover, decluttering, and packing, to helping your family adjust to the change and settling into your new community. Like whiskers from earlier times, animals often sense stress when their families are moving. Here are some ways that you can prepare your pet for the move and make sure they’re good to go:
1. Familiarize Your Pet With Moving Supplies
Pets can feel anxious when their environment changes unexpectedly. Help your pet get used to new sights and smells by introducing your pets to moving boxes, equipment, and packing material. Start well in advance in the move, and let them explore and get used to these items. This can reduce anxiety and make the moving process feel more familiar.
2. Update Tags and Microchip Information
When you’re moving with pets, make sure their ID tag and microchip have been updated with current contact information. Unfortunately, pets sometimes become lost during a move. Taking the time to update this info helps keep your pet safe — and brings YOU peace of mind as well!
3. Schedule a Vet Visit (And Find a Vet in Your New Community)
After finding out that you’re moving, talk with your pet’s veterinarian as soon as possible. The front desk should be able to help get any necessary health certificates, vaccines, or medications your pet may need for the move and give you information about transferring records. The veterinary office can give you tips and specifics about moving with your animal. And if you haven’t yet found a vet in your new community, ask your current vet for recommendations!
4. Gradual Acclimation to Carriers or Travel Crates
Is your pet crate trained? If not, start the training ASAP. Make the carrier a positive space by leaving treats and toys inside. This can help them feel comfortable during travel.
Moving With Pets: Packing and Moving Day Tips
Okay! So you’ve taken care of logistics at the vet, and Whiskers (or Fido or Polly the Parrot) has acclimated to their crate and to the moving supplies. It’s almost moving day… How can you prepare your furry friend for the upcoming chaos excitement? Here are some important ways that you can help your pet feel calm and stay secure.
Pack a Pet Essentials Bag
Prepare a bag with all your pet’s necessities, including:
- food
- water
- medications
- toys
- a leash
- cleanup supplies
Having these items readily available can make the first few days in your new home much easier.
Create a Safe Space During the Chaos
Choose a quiet room or area where your pet can stay safe and calm while movers are working. This prevents them from getting overwhelmed by the activity.
Stick To Routine
For a pet, routine = security. As much as possible, maintain your pet’s regular feeding, play, and bathroom schedules. Consistency helps reduce stress and keeps your pet feeling secure.
Avoid Leaving Pets Alone
Changes in the environment, new people, and unfamiliar sights and smells can cause animals to feel anxious or afraid. When you’re moving with pets, a familiar face can make all the difference. Ask a friend or family member to supervise your pet during the moving process. This way, your pet isn’t left unattended and has a source of comfort when needed.
Traveling With Your Pet
Your boxes are packed. The moving van is loaded. Now it’s time to travel to your new home and start settling in. As you and your family are traveling to your location, what are some ways to keep your pet calm, safe, and comfortable? Here are some tips for traveling with your pet:
Tips for Car Travel
- Buckle Up: Secure your pet with a harness or carrier to ensure their safety during the journey. Avoid letting them roam freely in the vehicle.
- Plan for Regular Breaks: If you’re driving long distances, schedule regular stops for your pet to stretch, hydrate, and relieve themselves.
Flying With Pets
Airlines have different policies regarding pets and travel crates. Make sure that you understand your airline’s regulations, and remember to bring along needed items to make your pet comfortable for the flight.
Pet-Friendly Accommodations
If your travel will require an overnight stay enroute, research pet-friendly hotels and stops. This ensures that your pet will have a safe place to stay and can make traveling easier.
Moving With Pets: Helping Your Furry Friend Adjust to the New Home
You’ve arrived at your new home. Congratulations! Getting settled into your new home is an exciting time for your family, but it can also come with some stress and uncertainty. To help your pet adjust to your new home, here are some tips:
Set Up a Familiar Environment
Place your pet’s bed, toys, and other familiar items in a designated area of your new home. Familiar scents and objects can help them feel more at ease.
Explore Gradually
Allow your pet to explore the new home at their own pace. Introduce them to one room at a time to prevent them from feeling overwhelmed.
Reintroduce Routine
Resume your pet’s daily routine as soon as possible. Regular schedules provide a sense of stability and security.
Monitor for Signs of Stress
Watch for behaviors like hiding, decreased appetite, or aggression. Address any signs of stress promptly to help your pet adjust.
Special Considerations for Different Pets
Moving with pets is different depending on the animal. Dogs, cats, reptiles, small mammals, birds, and fish have different needs. Make sure to talk with your veterinarian about special considerations for your specific pet. Here are some pro tips to help common pets have a successful move:
Dogs
- Leash Walks and Backyard Safety Checks: When you get to your new home, make sure the yard is secure and safe for your dog to explore.
- Exercise Needs: Moving is a busy time, but do your best to maintain your dog’s schedule. Regular exercise routines keep your dog healthy and healthy and can help Fido adjust to a new normal.
Cats
- Managing Territorial Stress: Provide plenty of hiding spots and vertical spaces to help your cat feel secure.
- Introducing New Spaces: Allow your cat to explore the new home gradually to help them acclimate and reduce stress.
Small Animals and Reptiles
- Maintaining Proper Habitat Conditions: Small animals and reptiles can be sensitive to changes in temperature and environment. During the move, make sure your animal’s temperature, lighting, and habitat requirements are met.
- Secure Transport: Use appropriate carriers to keep small animals and reptiles safe during transit.
Fish
- Transporting Aquariums Safely: Moving with pets living in aquariums can be tricky. Ensure tanks are secure to prevent spills and ensure stable water conditions during the move.
- Acclimating to New Water Conditions: Gradually adjust water parameters to match the new environment to reduce shock.
Making Moving With Pets a Paw-some Experience
When you’re moving with pets, planning, patience, and flexibility are the name of the game. Moving can be stressful for our furry friends, but you can make the moving experience smoother for the whole family with careful planning. By prioritizing your pet’s comfort, maintaining routines, and giving them lots of love and attention, you can keep them calm and safe — and help them adjust more quickly to your new home. Here at Central, we have over a century of helping families have the best moving experience possible.
FAQs About Moving With Pets
- How do I keep my pet calm during the move?
Maintain a consistent routine, provide a safe and quiet space, and gradually introduce moving supplies to reduce anxiety.
- What should I do if my pet gets anxious in the car?
Use a secure harness or carrier, bring familiar toys or blankets, and frequently stop to comfort your pet.
- Are there moving companies that specialize in transporting pets?
Yes, some moving companies offer specialized pet transportation services. It’s essential to research and choose a reputable company.
- How long does it take for a pet to adjust to a new home?
Adjustment times vary, but maintaining routines and providing a familiar environment can help your pet settle in within a few weeks.
- What should I pack for my pet when moving long-distance?
Include essential items like food, water, medications, toys, bedding, leashes, and cleanup supplies to meet your pet’s needs during the move.
