Moving with pets is not an easy task. It is important to pay special attention to their needs throughout the moving process to ensure the health and well-being of your pets are taken care of. These 5 tips will help ease the stress of moving for both you and your furry family members.
5 Tips to Moving With Pets
1. Prepare an overnight bag.
Moving can be an unpredictable time with plans often changing. Whether you are moving locally or long distance, it is important to keep your pet prepared for the unexpected. As moving day approaches, set aside your pet’s essential items in a bag to keep with you when you are traveling to your new home. Include a few days’ worth of food and treats, their favorite toys, meds, a leash and plenty of water. Keep your pet well fed and hydrated while traveling to ensure their safety.
2. NEVER put your pet in the moving truck.
All pets should travel with you in your personal vehicle, where they are safe and secure. This includes small pets such as hamsters, bunnies, ferrets, etc. If you cannot fit your pet’s cage in your personal vehicle, consider using a smaller cage for transport and packing their large cage in the moving truck. During the loading process, keep a close eye on your pets to ensure they do not climb into the moving truck, out of curiosity, and end up accidentally getting stuck. Stay alert and always know where your pet is.
3. Keep them out of the action.
Move day is hectic and can cause a lot of commotion around your home that your pet may not be used to. Your pet may also experience anxiety with strangers in the house, loud noises and seeing their home being taken apart. It is important to isolate your pet from this chaos as best you can. Keep them in a kennel in a quiet part of the house, take them to a boarding facility for the day, or ask friends or family to keep the pet at their home temporarily.
4. Update and retrieve veterinary records.
If you are moving far enough away that you need to switch veterinary providers, retrieve your pet’s medical records from your current doctor before you move. If you already have a new vet picked out in your new location, you can ask your current office to fax or email the records to the new veterinary office. Refill prescriptions your pet may need. If you have any questions or concerns about how your pet may travel, talk to your vet.
5. Comfort your pet.
Moving is stressful, not only to you, but to your pet as well. Even though you will be busy, take time to comfort your pet during the moving process. Ensure they have bedding, toys and other familiar items around them so they remain calm. Your pet may be concerned about being left behind or leaving a place they’re accustomed to, so be attentive to their behavior. You and your family will be their main source of reassurance and comfort.
Following these tips while moving with your pets will increase the likelihood of a positive experience for the entire family.