Be Pet-Smart About Your Move!
It is commonly known that moving can quickly become a very stressful event for everyone in the family. But what many do not know, or even think about, is that moving day is just as stressful for Fluffy, Spot and Miley. That’s right; your pet is feeling just as much anxiety and stress during the move as you are. Most people assume that it will be no big deal to move their pet from one house to another. In reality however, it is pretty nerve-racking for them to leave a very familiar place and become reacquainted with an entirely new one (not to mention, the terrible traveling part). Luckily, there are ways for you to make moving a little easier for them and in turn, easier for you! (Don’t worry we’re not going to suggest you stuff them in one of our boxes!)
BEFORE THE MOVE:
1. Include the pets in your master moving preparation list!
2. Take the cat or dog to the vet to get a check-up to make sure everything is okay.
- Ask the vet if they have any extra advice to make the transition smoother for the pets.
- If moving far enough away to have to switch vets, make sure to get up-to-date records, shots, tags, etc.
3. If you’re driving, do a ‘test run’ in the car. This will especially help if they are not use to going on car rides at all. A test run will help get the animal acclimated to a smaller amount of space for a long period of time. That way, when the big day comes, they are not as initially excited or frightened.
4. Take a trip to your local pet store to get all the essentials for the drive and first few days in the new place. A few must haves for a long car ride: toys, treats, pee pads, garbage bags and possibly a kennel (if you plan on keeping them contained during the travel).
5. If taking a long drive and have to stop at a hotel for the night make sure to find one that is pet friendly (you do not want an angry wife kicking you out to sleep in the car with the animals all night).
MOVING DAY:
1. Make sure everything has been organized for the animals ahead of time. If you are rushing around trying to get things ready, they will get nervous (you are trying to avoid this, remember?).
2. If you are flying to your new home, you will want to safely sedate the animal. Don't worry, it will feel just like a nap for them!
3. If they are in a crate or away from you, put something such as a t-shirt or pillow that has your scent on it so they will not feel so alone.
4. While transporting everything out of the house and into the moving truck, secure the animals in one room, out of the way. This will not only keep them out of the way but it will cause leave them less stress from them, because they will be away from the chaos.
UPON ARRIVAL:
1. As soon as you reach your new home, give the animals a little tour of the house. Let them see their new surroundings and make sure that they recognize important spots (such as where they are to use the bathroom).
2. Take them for a walk around your new neighborhood or find a dog park near-by.
3. Give them treats to calm their nerves and reward them for their good behavior during the trip.
4. Pay attention to them.
5. Put all of their toys, food, water, bed, etc. in one spot and lead them there. This will help them know where to go and keep them from feeling neglected or anxious.
Moving can be stressful for everyone involved, including the animals. But with a good amount of planning, you can alleviate most of the stress, especially on the animals. Do not forget that just because they are not carrying the boxes on moving day, does not mean they are feeling any more relaxed then you are.
- Category:
- Smart Moving Tips
