Are you planning to move soon? While we all know that moving can be an emotional experience, many people don’t consider how an upcoming move can affect their pets. However, with proper planning, moving with pets doesn’t have to be a stressful experience for you or your furry friend.
Preparing Your Pet for Moving
Some pets are not used to being in a car or traveling. Take your pet on several car rides in the weeks leading up to your move. If your pet feels uneasy, start with short, five-minute car rides and add more time gradually. Getting them used to the sights and sounds of riding is essential.
If your pet travels in a crate, let them spend plenty of time exploring and sleeping in their carrier before the move. Leave the crate open with blankets, toys, treats, or other familiar items inside. This step is important for cats because moving can be extra stressful for felines. Being familiar with their crate can make moving with pets much easier.
Making Arrangements for Moving With Pets
You will need to do several things to prepare for your and your pet’s upcoming move. The first step is to notify your current veterinarian that you are moving. If your pet still has trouble riding in a car, your vet may suggest specific techniques or medication, making traveling less traumatic. Your vet can also provide a copy of your pet’s records before your move. Some pet owners ask their vet to microchip their pet in case of an emergency while moving.
Next, begin searching for a new vet in your new neighborhood. Book your pet’s initial visit as soon as possible so you can get him established at the new clinic.
Before moving day, take time to learn your new area’s local and state laws regarding pet ownership. Some neighborhoods have leash laws and pet ordinances, while many states have regulations about animal health requirements.
If you are driving across the country and need to stop at night, ensure that the hotels you book are pet-friendly. If you are flying to your new home, check to see if your pet’s crate meets the airline’s requirements, and don’t forget to ask your airline about their pet policies and any restrictions.
Lastly, try to pack gradually. Your pet will become confused and stressed if you wait until 24 hours before your move to start packing.
Packing Your Pet’s Belongings
Depending on how many toys and other items your pet has, you may need a couple of packing boxes. While some of these items may not be necessary for traveling, you should pack a bag of essentials to have on hand at all times. Here are a few things your dog, cat, or other pet may need when traveling to their new home:
· ID tags with your new address
· Necessary medications
· Vaccine records
· Pet food and treats
· Food and water bowls
· Leash and harness
· Blanket
· Toys
· Waste bags
How to Handle Your Pets on Moving Day
Moving day can sometimes feel chaotic but try to remain calm around your pet because they will pick up on your energy.
For safety reasons, pets should be removed from the area when large furniture and boxes are loaded onto moving trucks. If possible, avoid locking them in a room because this can be stressful for them. Instead, have a friend or family member watch your pet at their house or send your furry friend to a pet daycare center.
Once you are on the journey to your new home, keep your pet’s routine as normal as possible. Feed them and let them have potty breaks at the same time they usually do.
Driving With Your Pet
While it’s not always feasible, driving to your new home is the best choice when moving with pets. This option keeps the dog, cat, or other pet in a more familiar environment and allows for frequent breaks along the road.
Decide how your pet will ride on moving day and ensure you have enough room in the vehicle. A crate or carrier is usually the way to go, but there are other restraint options like seatbelt harnesses.
Flying With Your Pet
Flying with your pet requires additional planning. First, try to book a flight without any layovers. While your pet can ride in the cargo compartment, an in-cabin reservation is the best choice. Be cautious about using any pet sedatives because they can be dangerous at high altitudes. And, as previously mentioned, check with your airline about their pet policies and any restrictions.
Settling into Your New Home With Your Pets
Before you let Fido explore his new home, take a few minutes to scan the home for potential hazards like forgotten mouse traps or household chemicals. Inspect the yard for possible dangers also.
Once you know the area is safe, let your pet explore his surroundings, one room at a time. Take your dog for a walk (on a leash, of course), introducing him to his new neighborhood.
Don’t forget to unpack his belongings quickly, especially his food, water, and toys. Lastly, ensure he has enough space to run and play as he adjusts to his new home.
Conclusion
Are you in the pre-planning stages of selling your home and buying a new one? We can help! Our full-time, full-service experience ensures you – and your pet – are never left out in the cold. Please contact us or call (401) 823-7701 for help with your upcoming transition.