If you’ve moved with your furry or not-so-furry friend before, you know it can be a stressful event for all involved. Most likely there is already activity like packing and moving items in an out going on, which can start the stress level to rise in our pets. Let’s take a closer look at some tips to help your non-human family members to move successfully.
Pre-Move Preparation
It’s always good to plan when it comes to animals. Take the time to talk to your vet if you have a nervous Nelly or an animal prone to anxiety. They may prescribe a pill to help calm them through the big move, or depending on the animal, may suggest boarding them for the day. Then, prepare a package for the first few days in the new location including food, litter, toys, treats and necessities. This will help with your stress level in being sure you can care for your pet without searching through boxes. Another good idea is to have carpeted areas in the new location treated and cleaned to hinder your dog or cat from marking your new home.
Moving Day
If you’re not able to board your pet, find a quieter room or the garage (if the temperature is acceptable). Somewhere away from the noise and chaos of the day will help, but more important is visiting them, reassuring them, and keeping some of their routine in place. This could be regular walking times, play time, treat time, or mealtime routines.
Next, once your home is moved to the new location it’s time to move your dear furry friend. Secure your pet appropriately, whether in a carrier or leash and seatbelt. While it may be cute or funny to have your pet roam free, it really isn’t safe and can be more stressful. Some pets do best with a blanket or towel placed over their carrier with less visual stimulation.
Finally, Home
As you arrive at the new home, be sure to set up their food and water (and litter for cats) and their favorite bed, blanket, and toys. Then be patient and give praise for good behavior. Some like to leave all the doors open inside the new house, but this can be overwhelming for pets. Other animals do better when confined to a smaller area at first, then once they are comfortable, opening the remainder of the home to them. It can take some animals a few days or even weeks before they are comfortable in their new home. Keep an eye out for any illness, but otherwise provide them love and space.
Last Thoughts
A few weeks after the move the stress will have melted away and life should resume as before. If it doesn’t take your furry or non-furry friend to the veterinarian. After all, change is difficult for humans, imagine what it must be like for our little friends.
