Introduction
Moving with pets require a little additional planning and preparation so that the experience is not too stressful or frightening for your pet. Following the tips given in this guide below will also help you feel relatively stress free about your pet during moving home.
1. Plan ahead
Planning ahead for a move with a pet will greatly reduce the stress for both you and your pet. Pets thrive on routine and the familiar and during a move both those elements can be greatly affected. By planning you can ensure that you slowly adapt your pet to a few changes so that it is not one big shock for them. If you need to hire a pet sitter during the days leading up to the move, do so early, so that your pet can get used to the sitter. You can get the help of a family member or friend, on the day so that your pet feels safe. Make sure you have proper transport gear such as crates and be sure your pet is crate trained before the actual moving day.
2. Pack a separate carry on
Prepare a separate carry on for your pet so that everything he/she will need is easily accessible and not lost in the chaos of the move. Pack things that your pet will need during the move such as medicine, toys, treats and food and waters bowls that will feel familiar when at the new home. Be sure to have litter trays at hand as well.
3. Familiarize pet with the new location
Once you have finalised a place be sure to familiarise your dog or cat with the new location. Take them on visits so that they can explore and get used to it. Try and demarcate an area in the new place where pets can stay so they develop a sense of security. This will help your pet feel at home when the move happens. Take them outside to explore the surrounding area as well as it helps towards making your pet feel comfortable and less nervous about the new location.
4. Ensure that you have registered with a vet at the new place
Don’t forget to register with the vet in your new location and to collect the relevant documentation from the previous vet.
5. Inform old neighbours in case pet returns
Especially cats and dogs can have a tendency to seek out their old haunts when not totally adjusted to their new surroundings. Keep your old neighbours informed so they can let you know if they see your pet around the areas. This is especially important if you have not moved too far from your old place. Ask your neighbours not to feed your pet because that could lead to them forming a habit of looking for food and comfort in the old neighbourhood. During your first few months or till your pet adjusts make sure you do not leave your door open unsupervised and keep your cats indoors till they are also more confident with the surroundings.
6. Consider micro-chipping your pet
You should really consider micro-chipping your pet, because moving house is scary for pets and can lead them to behave differently and maybe wander away in the hopes of finding their old haunts. You will always know where your pet is with micro-chipping. If your pet is already micro-chipped remember to update the information.
7. Inform moving company of pets
When you are hiring a moving company inform them about the pets and find out if they have relevant equipment that maybe necessary for your pet’s move. That will save you from having to buy it. If you are unable to take your pet in your vehicle check with your moving company regarding pet facilities they offer. Be sure though to have someone at the new place to greet your pet and keep them company, preferably in a secluded area of the new house so that they are not too disturbed by the activities. If you are moving any exotic pets check with the movers regarding an insurance company for the move.
Conclusion
By planning beforehand and ensuring that your pet’s needs are taken care of you can make the move less stressful for both you are your pet. Once in your new house spend time with your pet till they adjust to the new routine and surroundings providing them with a special place to stay in the new house where they feel safe. Your pet will soon enjoy exploring its new home and area with confidence.