5 Ways to Make Moving Easier on Your Pet
Moving is considered one of the most stressful life events a person can put themselves through. To put it in perspective, it’s right up there with starting a new job and divorce. What makes it a bit easier on us is we know why it’s happening as well as where we are going. Our pets do not get the luxury of this knowledge. As stressful and anxious as we can get about the upcoming change, it is twice as nerve-wracking for our pets.
If you are facing this type of change, here are 5 things you should keep in mind to make the transition easier on your furry or feathered friends.
- Stay calm. This is good for you as well as your pet. Animals typically take social cues from their people; so if you are stressed they are stressed. The best thing you can do for the both of you is make a plan for the steps you will take to make the transition as easy as possible for both of you.
If you aren’t moving far, keep your little buddy in a separate room until the move is over or try boarding. Though boarding may be out of your price range given the expenses usually involved with moving, if you can afford it, do it! You could also ask a friend if they can watch your pint-sized chum instead. Even though some furry and feathered friends find boarding or staying in a strange house stressful, it will not cause nearly as much anxiety as strangers moving in and out of the house with boxes and furniture scattered all over. Let’s face it, when your house or apartment is in this condition it may as well be a strange an unfamiliar place. If keeping them somewhere else is not an option for you due to finances or the special needs of your pet, you can try keeping them in a room with less commotion. This will help alleviate their anxiety and also diminish the potential of them getting out of a door that could be left open in all the hustle and bustle. Try to move as much as you can to the new location before bringing your pet. This way they will be surrounded by familiar sights and smells when they get to the new home.
- If you are moving long distance, it is a good idea to plan long before the move what method you are using for your companion’s transportation. Think of everything you will need to provide them and get it ready (food, water, and a comfort item) and also plan stops so they can use the bathroom and stretch their legs. If you are flying check, with the airline to identify what their travel options for pets are. Many will allow you to take small animals as carry on so they may stay with you throughout the process. If this is not an option you should investigate what other options the airline provides before you buy your tickets, as many will not allow you to keep your pet in cargo during connecting flights or particular times of year (it gets cold in there at high altitudes). You can check out our article on flying with your pet for a breakdown of pet policies on 10 of the major U.S. airlines.
- However you choose to move, make sure you have an overnight kit for your arrival. This should be stocked to allow you to stay in hotels as many nights as you will need, or at the very least the first few nights you are settling into your new home. Again, this helps both you and your pet considering you won’t have to dig through all your packed away things to find dishes, food, toys, and beds during your first few days of unpacking. It also helps your companion feel more relaxed and comfortable having familiar things with familiar smells after the big part is over.
If you have an outdoor pet make sure all their tags are up to date, or if you have the opportunity, get them microchipped. You will want to keep them inside before the move so they don’t prevent you from meeting moving departure times as well as a few days after you arrive since they won’t be familiar with their new neighborhood. You’ll want them to get used to their surroundings and settle in a bit before letting them outside to prevent any panic or potential wondering. Also, check the surrounding area for anything that could be dangerous like large uncovered sewers and pipes and try to get those things taken care of before letting them explore their new home more fully. If you have an enclosed yard, check fences for weak spot or holes and fix them. Always be sure to verify that there are not harmful chemicals or litter they could ingest or wells they could fall through. Keep outdoor animals inside a few days to give yourself enough time to inspect outdoor areas they have access to.
If you haven’t yet spayed or neutered your pal then be sure to do it before you start moving just in case they get out and find a friendly playmate. Following these steps will make the arrival in your new home a painless experience for you and your best friend.
Have you ever moved with a pet? What was your experience like? Leave a comment and let us know!