How to Move with Pets
Moving can be incredibly stressful for people, so imagine how hard it is on pets! Although you have every idea of what’s going on during your moving process, your pet doesn’t. Unexpected activity in their home, the anxiety of car travel and getting used to a new environment can be overwhelming for them. Although it’s different for every pet, here is a list of tips that should help ease the process for your furry family members:
Make A Care Kit
Prepare an easily-accessible 'overnight kit' that has enough dog food, kitty litter, toys and grooming tools to sustain your pet and keep them comfortable during the first few days of unpacking.
Packing Up
Cats, in particular, aren’t big fans of change. You can help your cats (and skittish dogs) adjust to the moving process by bringing in moving boxes early, and by keeping your furry friends in a familiar room you plan to pack up last.
Check With Your Vet
If you’re moving far enough to have to change vets, go ahead and notify your current one so they can send you copies of your pet’s records to take with you. They may also have a recommendation for you on a vet in your new location.
Stuff First, Pets Second
If possible, try to unpack as much as you can before the pets get there. Even if just one room is set up, that gives them a stable place to be that isn’t in constant flux. Make sure they have a toy, a blanket or their pet bed for that first day, so they have something that smells safe and familiar.
Keep Collars On and Up to Date
Prior to moving day, make sure your pets are fitted with collars and ID tags with your name and current cell phone number. Microchipping is also recommended and will serve as a backup if your pet loses its collar.
Moving Day
The best plan for moving day is to leave Fido with a friend … but if that’s not an option, keep your pets in a quiet room with the door shut. Even the most easy-going pets can try to make a quick getaway if their environment is strange for them and they get scared.
Road Trip Tips
Most pets don’t spend a lot of time in cars … and when they do, it’s not always for good reasons in their minds. If their only experience inside a crate is a trip to the vet, it’s important to prepare them for the big trip:
- Gradually acclimate pets to their crate by leaving food or treats inside with an open door. You can eventually have them eat with the door shut once they’re used to that.
- Try a short trip in the car with your pet that ends in some sort of reward for them. Maybe there’s playtime or treats soon after to help them develop a positive association with the crate.
