Pets mean so much to their owners and become family members. Although some may argue that pets are just animals, they require the same or more consideration than humans when moving. Your moving company cannot move your pet to your next home, but as moving professionals we work with pet lovers often and understand what must be done to move your pet without it raining cats and dogs. Following are helpful hints on how to move with your pet.
Carrier Training
Before scheduling your move, train your pet to like (or at least tolerate) their carrier. Oftentimes, the carrier only appears for unpleasant vet trips. Create a haven for your pet by leaving out the carrier and furnishing it with their favorite toys and blankets. The ASPCA suggests placing them in their carrier, carrying them around the house, and then offering positive reinforcement with treats and praise. Acclimate your dog or cat to a leash or harness, says PetsWelcome, so they stay by your side.
Explore Before
When house hunting, ensure your pet has enough room to be comfortable and get exercise in your neighborhood. Once you settle on a place, take your pet on a visit to get acquainted with it. Plan a fun outing by visiting neighborhood parks and letting them explore.
Shots and Docs
Schedule a vet appointment to ensure they don’t need any shots, prescriptions, or other treatments. While you’re there, gather the paperwork you may need to register and license your pet in another state or city. Check local and state laws for pet ownership rules and restrictions. Your current vet may be able to recommend vets in your new area; otherwise, research them on the Internet or via word-of-mouth. As for upkeep, groom them before moving and update their collars, IDs, and/or microchips with your new information.
Keep Pets Calm and Carry on
Each species requires different moving accommodations but they all need peaceful surroundings and assurances that everything is okay. Inform movers of your pet’s idiosyncrasies and confine them to their carriers, backyards, or behind closed doors. Dogs get less stressed than cats, so placing them in their carrier covered by a blanket may provide comfort. Birds also cannot handle stress, so keep them covered and stabilize room or car temperatures for them. If your pet is particularly stressed out, sedate them with your vet’s assistance. When the movers finish their work, move your pet to your car or out of the house.
Stick to Routines
On Moving Day, PetsWelcome suggests appointing a family member as a pet minder. If you’re moving solo, find a neighbor or friend to watch your pet or bring them to a kennel. Adhere to your pets’ regular schedule, so they will fare better and act accordingly. When long-distance moving, ensure they’re fed a few hours before flying and provide them water before and after, says PetsWelcome.
Travel Etiquette
Pets should not stay in closed-up cars or packed into moving vans. Bring a first aid kit and supply bag stocked with food, water, a “disposable litterbox” and extra towels, says Petfinder. Pets board last on planes and seeing-eye dogs travel free, says PetsWelcome. When staying at a hotel between moves, do not leave your pet alone. If moving your pet seems daunting, contact a pet relocation specialist who can handle every aspect of moving your pet.
Explore Some More
After moving to your abode, ensure your home is safe and secure so that your pets can roam around and adjust to their new home. Some pets may act differently due to stress, says Petfinder, so gradually acclimate them to new rooms until they’re comfortable.