Moving from one home to another can be stressful and overwhelming. But wait until you add your pets to the mix! You need to keep your furry friends safe, healthy and happy during this process. In this article, we will provide you with some essential tips for making sure that your pet is stress-free during the move.
Pre-Move Planning
Moving to a new home can be stressful for everyone—including our furry family members! Before you move, take the time to plan ahead to ensure your pet’s transition is as safe and comfortable as possible. Here are a few tips you should consider when moving with pets:
- Take your pet for a test drive. Taking your pet on the same drive you will be taking them on the day of the move will help them acclimate and prepare for the day of moving. Pack a few treats so that they associate the route positively.
- Visit your vet and get their records. This is especially important if you are moving out of state. Make sure to update their ID tag with a new address/phone number if needed.
- Set up an area in your house for them to relax in during the move. Put out a bed and a favorite toy or two so that they can stay in one place without being disturbed by movers or overly excited relatives.
- Stock up on food and toys before the big move. To avoid any confusion or missing items, make sure to familiarize yourself with what kind of food is available at your new location prior to leaving, or consider bringing supplies from home for added convenience.
- Manage their anxiety levels around noises during travel time with natural remedies such as relaxing music, calming diffusers, pheromones, or CBD oil (if ok’d by vet).
Packing Tips
Start by packing up all pet supplies several days in advance, including any medications your pet may need during transit. Make sure to bring along leashes, carriers, food dishes, and toys – anything that will make your pet comfortable. You’ll also want to include essential documents such as medical records and current licenses.
In terms of physical preparation, you should take your pet for a veterinarian check-up at least one week before the move since that can ensure proper treatment of any existing health issues or vaccinations. Your veterinarian may also give you advice on which products to use if you’re concerned about motion sickness or anxiety while traveling in the car or plane. Additionally, keep comfortable bedding with your pet during long-distance journeys so they have a familiar item with them at all times.
Finally, pets can get easily distracted whenever there is a lot going on around them so try to keep them in an isolated room at least two hours before the beginning of the move process. This will help keep them calm and provide some much-needed rest before beginning their new life journey with you!
Transportation Tips
Pets should be secure during travel; a large carrier or crate with plenty of bedding is ideal when traveling by car, and cats particularly like small spaces they can hide away in while traveling. When flying, pets must be checked as cargo on the plane and special regulations apply. Make sure you research the aircraft type before booking tickets and speak to airlines about requirements for transporting animals as luggage.
Once your destination is within sight, update identification for your pet accordingly (microchips included). Finally, give your furry friend time and patience to become accustomed to its new home; familiar smells, sights, and sounds will all help make the transition smoother!
Settling In
Once you arrive, make sure your furry friend has all the things they need to settle in and feel comfortable.
Provide a familiar blanket, toy, or cushion that smells like them to help them feel at home. Walking around their new space can also give them a chance to get used to the smells and environment of their new space and will allow them to have time off or be away from all the chaos of moving.
Create comfortable places for your pet by designated areas with their bedding or blankets in corners or on furniture where they are able to have quiet time away from the hustle if needed. Having multiple beds in different areas will provide them with more cozy options where ever you are. Provide regular meal times as this helps create a predictable routine that gives stability during this transition period. Spend lots of quality time cuddling, playing, and brushing too!
Pet-Friendly Accommodations
Whether you’re moving across state lines or just across town, finding pet-friendly accommodations should be one of your top priorities. Depending on the size and type of pet, many hotels and motels offer options that meet your needs. If you plan to stay at a hotel for more than a few days, look for pet-friendly hotels that provide special services such as doggy daycare, dog parks, or pet sitting services.
Short-term rental websites such as Airbnb have become increasingly popular for their convenience and affordability when traveling with pets. Some listings on the website will clearly specify whether pets are allowed or not. If not specifically specified, it is always a good idea to contact the owner before booking to confirm that your furry friend will be welcomed with open arms. Be sure to provide detailed information about your pet so there are no surprises when you arrive at your destination.
Conclusion
Moving with pets can be a stressful experience for everyone involved if you’re not prepared. However, by following the tips provided in this article, you can make sure that your furry friends stay safe and happy throughout the process. From making sure they are comfortable with their carrier to ensure they have access to all of their usual items during the move, there are lots of ways to keep them calm and content. With these tips in mind, moving with pets doesn’t have to be an overwhelming task – it can actually be quite enjoyable for everyone involved!
