Moving can be stressful for pets as well as people. To make the transition smoother, crate-train your pets ahead of time and ensure that they are microchipped and wearing a collar with up-to-date information. Keep feeding and exercise routines consistent during the move to reduce anxiety for your pet. It’s also a good idea to bring enough food, water, treats, toys, and kitty litter to last your pet until you settle in. Visit Website for more information.
Plan Ahead
Whether you’re moving across the country or just down the block, there are many factors that determine how easy (or stressful) it will be for you and your pets. Whether you choose to pack your own belongings or use a U-Pack moving service, you’ll want to start preparing your pet ahead of time to ensure everyone’s comfort and safety on the day of the move.
Depending on the length of your move and how you transport your belongings, you may need to make arrangements for daycare or for your pets to spend the move with a friend. This will give you time to focus on packing and other preparations for your move, and will help reduce your pets’ anxiety about the sudden change in their environment on moving day.
If your pet doesn’t travel well in the car, start preparing them early by introducing them to a carrier or crate. Start by letting them eat their food inside an open crate, then gradually close it and take them on short trips. Getting them used to traveling in a crate can help reduce their stress on the day of your move, as they will know what to expect.
Be sure to double-check required vaccinations and pet laws in your new state or country, as these can vary from one place to the next. It’s also a good idea to consult your vet about products such as calming tablets and sprays that can be taken during the moving process to keep your pets calm and comfortable.
If possible, try to maintain your normal routines leading up to the move, including feeding times, walks, playtime and daily medications. This will help your pets feel more at ease as the move approaches and can even help with their transition to the new home once they are moved in. It’s a good idea to visit your new home ahead of time to let your pet get familiar with the area and the smells that will be associated with it. This will also give you an opportunity to check for any areas of the home that might need a little extra TLC to help your pet feel at home.
Packing
When you start packing, try to keep your pet’s items close by so they can see and smell their familiar toys and treats. This will help them feel safe and secure during this chaotic time. You should also start to get your pets used to seeing the boxes and other moving supplies a few weeks prior to your move, as this will reduce stress and disruptions during the actual packing process. You can do this by putting some of your pet’s toys in the empty boxes and leaving them open to be played with. This will make the actual packing process much smoother for you, your pet and your movers.
On the day of your move, be sure to have all essentials for your pet, including food and water. You should also pack any medications they are taking, and remember to label them so you can find them easily in the new home. It’s a good idea to visit your vet before the move to ensure that all core vaccinations are up to date and to obtain a copy of their health records, which will be needed at the new location.
Once you arrive at the new location, you should set up a quiet, isolated area for your pet to sleep and rest in. This area should be away from all the commotion and should be equipped with some comfortable bedding, a blanket that smells like you, and some of their favorite toys. It’s also a good idea to have some treats and a bowl of fresh water available for your pet, as it will give them the energy they need to explore their new environment.
It’s a good idea to have a friend or family member stay with your pet during the move, so they don’t become overwhelmed by all the activity. However, if that is not possible, you should at least find a trusted kennel that can take care of your pet for a few days during the move. This will give you peace of mind and allow you to focus on getting settled in your new home.
Transport
If you choose to fly with your pet, it is important to remember that cats, in particular, are prone to motion sickness and stomach issues. To help prevent this, avoid feeding your cat solid food several hours before travel. This is also a good time to wash their bedding, toys, and litter box. If you are unsure what to do, speak with your vet for advice.
When planning for air transportation with pets, you may want to consider enlisting the services of a professional pet transporter. They will provide expert assistance, ensuring that your pets are kept safe, calm, and comfortable during their trip. While a transport service might cost more than simply flying your pet yourself, it is well worth the peace of mind.
In addition to hiring a transport company, you should also ensure that your pet is up to date on all their vaccinations and has an appointment scheduled with a new vet at your destination. It is also a great idea to talk with your current veterinarian about your upcoming move and transfer your pet’s medical records. They can advise you on how to do this, and they might even be able to recommend a vet in your new area.
Whether you are driving or flying, you will need to prepare your pet for their crate or carrier. If your pet is not used to being in a crate or carrier, you should start preparing them for this at least a month in advance of your move. Begin by casually introducing them to the container, and then gradually increase their time in it during playtime, meals, or other activities. You can also try spraying their container with a calming pheromone, which will help to keep them calm during the trip.
For international moves, you will need to ensure that your pet is up to date on their rabies vaccine and that all of their documents are in order. This can be complicated, and a simple error can put your pet’s entire journey on hold. For this reason, it is best to enlist the services of an experienced pet transporter, such as one that is a member of IPATA.
Getting Started
Whether you are driving or flying with pets during your move, it is important to start planning and preparing early. A good place to start is with your vet, making sure that your pet’s vaccinations are up-to-date and they have a microchip just in case of loss or accident during the move.
If you are boarding or staying in hotels during your move, book ahead and confirm that they accept pets. This will help prevent any surprises on moving day when you discover your pet may not be able to stay at the hotel.
For most pets, the best way to travel is in a carrier or crate. In the days leading up to the move, you should begin introducing them to their crate or carrier so that they become familiar with it. You should also desensitize your dog or cat to the packing materials (boxes, dollies, etc.) that will be used during the move by putting them around them often and giving them treats while they are near them to create a positive association.
On the day of the move, you should have a “moving kit” prepared with everything you will need for your pet to get through the day. This should include a leash, collar, crate or carrier, food, water, toys and grooming tools. You should also have a bag that contains any medications they will need for the duration of your move, including a contact number for the vet where you are going to be.
When you arrive at your new home, it will take time for your pet to adjust to the new environment. This may show up in destructive behaviors, indoor accidents or other anxiety symptoms like barking or chewing. During this period, it is important to stick with your regular routine as much as possible with feedings, walks and playtime. It is also a good idea to keep bedding, toys and treats from your old home to help your pet feel more comfortable in the new one. It is also a good idea to slowly introduce them to the house and neighborhood with supervised visits until they are comfortable enough to explore on their own.
