Completing tasks ahead of a move is ever so fulfilling. It feels good to check items off the list and feel you’re progressing. Booked full-service movers near me. Check! Mail forwarded. Check! Heating and electricity switched over. Check!
But WAIT…. What about Fluffy?!
As a pet owner, your pet is part of the family. Bringing them with you on the move is non-negotiable. Pets have different needs than you and your family. Plus, moving day can be as stressful for your feathered and furry friends. They may feel uneasy and nervous, so it’s up to you to take steps to ease their feelings. Here are nine steps to prepare your pet before, during, and after your move.
1. Familiarize your Pet with Packing Supplies
Packing in advance allows you to gradually expose your pets to all the packing supplies that will fill your home over the next few weeks. It gives you the chance to teach your pets that the packing supplies are not toys, no matter how tempting it is to wrinkle up the packing paper and play hide-and-seek in the boxes.
Conditioning your furry friends ahead of time will decrease disruptions on moving day.
2. Keep as Much Normalcy as Possible
Routine changes can throw your pet for a loop. Pets are creatures of habit, and they thrive on their routines. Keeping as much normalcy to their routine as possible will help to keep their anxiety down.
You may feel tempted to skip your everyday routines amid chaos, but taking the time to stick to small parts of your routine now will pay dividends later. Keep their feeding schedules and amounts normal, don’t skip their usual playtimes and walks, and give them lots of love and attention.
3. Plan Entertainment for Them
Pets need entertainment just like children. Make sure to squeeze in walks and baseball tosses to release energy and keep them calm. If you’re too busy, consider asking a friend or family member that your pet knows well to fill in for you to take over walks and playtime. You could even look into a dog-walking service to ensure your furry friends get outside walks.
4. Plan a Visit to the Vet Before Your Move
Talking with your vet may be worth it for advice on keeping your pet calm and happy on moving day. In addition, a trip to the vet is a good idea to:
- Get up-to-date on vaccines and a current rabies vaccine certificate (If applicable)
- Get a wellness check to make sure your pet is healthy and has any regular prescriptions they need
- Ask about stress-reducing tactics and tricks or supplements that could help
- Request copies of your pet’s medical records if you’re moving out of your current city
- Ask your current vet for recommendations for a new vet in your new area
5. Study up on New Pet Laws in Your New City
Different cities have different pet laws. Make sure you look into these laws before your move. Doing your research ahead of time will ensure you’re in the know and ready to respect the laws in your new community. If you will be renting, know your landlord’s rules about pets.
6. Plan Pet-Friendly Accommodations for Long Moves
If you will stay in hotels or AirBnBs, ensure your pets are welcome, too. Don’t assume every place will allow your pet to stay the night. Even if the person at the front desk is the biggest dog person on the planet, they still have to stick to their hotel’s rules and regulations.
7. Keep Them Secured
During packing and moving, there will be a lot going on. There will be lots of doors open and moving helpers carrying loads of boxes and furniture out of the house. For this reason, please keep your pets secure so they won’t run away or get stepped on. Put them in a kennel in the quietest part of the house. Make sure also to have updated tags or microchips on your pets just in case they escape.
8. Pack a Pet Emergency Bag
We can’t always predict the crazy curve balls that life throws. If your move gets delayed for any reason, you’re going to want to have some necessities for your pet, including:
- Food
- Water
- Favorite toys
- Blankets
- Treats
- Paper towels
- Plastic bags
9. Pet-Proof Your New Home
We all know about baby-proofing, but have you considered pet-proofing your new home to protect your pet against hazards? Here are some pet-proofing tips:
- Make sure all windows, screens, doors and windows are secure
- Make sure any balcony railings are sufficient to keep your pet from escaping
- Inspect backyard fences for escape holes
- Check to make sure every vent has a cover
- Check for potential poisons, such as pest control traps
Moving can be a stressor. Imagine how your pet feels. Poor Fluffy is confused, nervous, and may be anxious about the unknown. It’s your job to give your pets the tender love and care they deserve so they can enjoy the move as much as possible and remain calm throughout the process.
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