By Julie DeLong, A-1 Freeman Moving Group
Your pets are part of the family, and just like everyone else, they are attached to their home. Surroundings and routines are an important comfort source for animals and moving quickly disrupts both things. While you can't dispel all the stress related to the move, there are actions you can take before, during, and after moving that will help your furry family member adjust.
Preparation
It's not unusual to know for weeks, or even months, ahead of time when you are planning to move. This space gives you time to make all the preparations you need to pack your belongings and get ready to move into your new home. It's also a great time to get your pet comfortable with all the new actions he will have to face during the move. These tips can help your pet be prepared when the big day arrives.
- Help your pet get accustomed to her crate or carrier. Using the carrier inside your home and car as you prepare for moving day can help her associate it with happy times.
- Keep your pets on their regular schedule. Moving is a busy time for the whole family. It's important to keep your pets on their normal schedule to avoid stress.
- Visit your veterinarian. Your veterinarian can make sure that your pet is healthy enough to travel and prescribe necessary medicines for nausea and stress.
- Take your pet for short car rides. If your pet isn't used to riding in a vehicle, short rides can help him prepare for the move.
- Update pet tags. A new environment gives your pet additional opportunities to get lost. Updating her tags will help others know where she belongs.
- Schedule playtime. Your pet will notice changes within the family as moving day approaches. Keep him from feeling neglected by observing regular play times.
Moving Day
The big day is finally here, and it's likely one of the busiest days your pet has encountered. Help eliminate his fear and stress with simple actions that make him comfortable. These tips can make moving day a success for your pets.
- Keep your pets away from the action. As everyone is rushing around moving belongings, close your pet in a quiet calming room
- Remember your pets' daily routine. If your pet is accustomed to a walk in the morning, keep up the tradition on moving day.
- Put your pet's favorite toy in the crate. Your pet's familiar toys can help him feel at ease. Putting these toys inside his crate can help ease anxiety during the ride.
- Always ensure your pet remains on a leash or in a crate while traveling. When your pet is in a strange place, she may act differently. New stressors could frighten her into running away.
- Pack an emergency pet bag. You need to have all the supplies on hand that your pet needs to travel. Carry snacks, medications, clean-up bags and special toys in a bag that's easily accessible.
- Put some of your pet's belongings inside the new house ahead of time. When you introduce your pet to his new surroundings, familiar objects will help him adjust.
Adjusting to a New Home
Leaving a comfortable long-term home is a big deal for your pet. She will need a period to explore the new house and adjust before it really feels like home. There are actions you can take to make this adjustment period easier for your pets.
- Start slow. Introduce your pet to one part of the house at a time.
- Watch for physical signs of stress. Common signs of stress in animals include fatigue, loss of appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, and isolation.
- Keep up with previous schedules. Your pet's schedule is important. Keeping the old schedule in your new home can help him adjust.
- Limit outside time as your pet adjusts. Help your pet avoid getting lost by limiting outdoor time in the first days after the move.
- Avoid excess stress. Avoid having additional stressors like parties and grooming routines in your new home as your pet gets used to his new surroundings.
Moving is a huge adjustment for everyone in the family, and your pets are no exception. As everyone gets used to the new situation, your pets may need a little extra encouragement and attention. Pay attention to your pet's needs and behavior to make sure the adjustment is a healthy one.
A-1 Freeman Moving Group is an experienced moving company prepared to help you with all your residential moving needs. Contact us for more information or visit our blog for more tips to help make your move easier.
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Sources:
https://www.libertymutual.com/masterthis/keep-pets-stress-free-during-move
https://iheartdogs.com/how-to-make-moving-stress-free-for-your-dog/
