Moving can be a stressful event for the entire family, including your household pets. To reduce the drama and chaos often involved in a move, you can employ the following tips to help minimize your pets’ discomfort. Whether you’re moving to a new town or across the country, the following tips will help you keep your pets comfortable as they adjust to the changes to come.
#1 Talk to Your Vet
If you’re moving long distance, it’s a smart idea to visit the veterinarian for a checkup. If your pet is especially nervous when it comes to change or finds long-distance drives to be particularly traumatic, you might ask your vet to prescribe a sedative. Additionally, your vet may also be able to recommend another vet in your new location.
#2 Keep Pets Away from the Action
Even the most docile and obedient pets can become unhinged during the action of a move. It’s not uncommon for cats and dogs to run off if given the chance during the confusion of a move. To prevent your pet from feeling anxious or scared with the entrance of local movers, you should ideally keep your pets contained in crates or in a quiet room that’s already been cleared. Be sure your pet has food and water. If your pet is a dog, you can take it for a walk or two during moving breaks. Some people have found that allowing pets to stay with a friend during the move also helps prevent drama.
#3 Move Household before Pets
If possible, try to prepare your new household before introducing your pet. That way, it will recognize some familiar features. While some pets may find that exploring a new home is exciting, others may feel nervous or apprehensive about settling in. You can help your pet acclimate to its new abode by setting up a special area with food, water and a bed. Along those same lines, you should make sure your new home is properly pet-proofed to avoid early injuries while you settle in.
#4 Transport Pets in Your Vehicle
It’s not a good idea to transport your pets in a moving van or vehicle. Not only can ventilation be poor, but boxes or household items could inadvertently fall on your pet’s crate or carrier. It’s best to transport your pets in the safety of your own vehicle. If you are traveling a long distance, make sure to bring along plenty of food, water and treats for your pet. You might even want to take along a few toys.
#5 ID Your Pets
Before moving day, you should update your pets’ identification tags. Include your pet’s name and your current cell phone number on the tag. In case your pet wanders from home and gets lost — at either location — a current tag will ensure that it is returned to you quickly. You should also have your pet chipped as an added safety measure.
#6 Find Pet-Friendly Lodgings
Finally, if your move requires an overnight stay, be sure to make arrangements to stay at a pet-friendly hotel. Have plenty of pet supplies to ensure that your pet has all it needs while on the road.
Conclusion
By following these tips, you can make your pet more comfortable during a tumultuous time. Moving may not be pleasurable, but you can reduce the drama by following the advice outlined here.
Written contribution by Andrea Davis, Home Advisor.