Moving can be stressful on the entire family—from you, to your kids—down to your four-legged family members. Uprooting you pets from the home they have become accustomed to can be equally tense for you and your dogs, cats and other animal companions. However, there are ways that you can keep them calm to make moving with pets less traumatic than it has to be.
Before your next big move, consider these tips for moving with pets to ensure a smooth transition for all of your loved ones!
- Tell your vet. Consult with your veterinarian beforehand on the fact that you are moving. Your vet will be able to prescribe any medications that your pet may need for the move, such as medicine for animals prone to getting motion sickness in the car, for example. Your vet may also be able to recommend a new vet for you in the area where you are moving.
- Get proper identification. Make sure your pet’s ID tags are up to date with your latest contact information. You may also want to consider a microchip for your pet, which can help identify your animal in the event that he or she gets lost.
- Keep your pet secluded. When you are moving out of your current home, your pet should be kept in a quiet, secluded area, such as a bedroom that you can shut off to the commotion going on in the rest of the house. You may even consider having your pet stay at a friend or relative’s house while moving is going on.
- Pack a pet bag. Before your trip to the new house, pack a bag with all of your pet’s necessities like food, toys, snacks, etc. You want to make sure these are easily accessible and are not packed away where you can’t find them during the move.
- Use your own vehicle. If possible, transport your pet in your own vehicle when you are in transit to your new home. The familiar smell should help your animal feel more at ease.
- Keep them in a kennel. While in transport, keeping your pet in a well-ventilated carrier or kennel can not only prevent them from slipping out when you open your car door, but it can help them feel safer. Some pets even prefer a blanket draped over the sides of the carrier or kennel so that they are not disturbed by the unfamiliar sights and sounds of traveling.
- Take plenty of breaks. If you are traveling a long distance, don’t forget to let your pet out for plenty of bathroom breaks along the route.
- Move furniture in before your pet. If possible, set up some of your furniture before moving your pet into the home. Creating an environment similar to the one your pet was used to at your old house will help him or her feel more comfortable.
- Give them a home base. You can let your pet get used to one room before exposing it to the entire house. Start by putting your pet’s food and water, treats, toys, etc. in one room, and then gradually introduce them to other areas of the house.
- Keep your pet inside for a few days. If you have a cat that you normally let roam on its own outside, it is a good idea to let the cat get used to your house first before letting him or her out to get used to a new neighborhood. Wait a few days until you feel that your cat feels comfortable inside before letting him or her out.
Moving with your pet doesn’t have to be a nightmare! Stay patient with the process, and before long your furry companion will likely be ready to consider your new house a home.
Looking to buy or sell a home in the Auburn and Opelika area? Contact Realtor Ryan Roberts at 334-750-9872, or email [email protected]!
