Moving Blog
November 10, 2020

Tips for Moving with Cats and Dogs

Moving with cats and dogsBy Julie DeLong, A-1 Freeman Moving Group

As a professional moving company, we understand that moving is a tough process, and it only gets tougher if you have four-legged friends who are coming with you. If you have dogs, cats, or both, then here are a few, simple things you can do to make the moving process easier on your pets, and on yourself.

Have One, Final Vet Visit

Some pets do not like going to the vet, but if you are moving it is important to make sure your animals get a checkup before you depart. We cannot stress how important this is if you are moving far enough away that you will need to find a new vet, or if a plane is going to be involved. Make sure you get proof of vaccinations, medications, and any other paperwork you are going to need. Some states require health certificates for you to enter with your pet, so be sure and do some research in advance. If you wait until the last minute, it can be a huge, unnecessary headache to add on top of your move.

Board Your Pets (If You Can)

Boarding can be rough on animals who have separation anxiety, but it is often a better solution in the long run if you are moving to a new house. If you board your animals for the moving day then you do not have to worry about them being underfoot, there is no chance of them running away, and you aren't constantly keeping track of them. It saves time, frustration, and risk, which can help your move go a lot more smoothly. Plus, it is for the safety of your furry family members.

Preserve as Much Routine as Possible

Our pets thrive on routine, and they are sensitive when it changes. Changes in routine tend to result in all kinds of extra stress on their part. As such, you should try to organize your move so that it disrupts your pets' routines (as well as your own) as little as possible. Let them get used to what is happening slowly, and they will respond much better. Additionally, when you move them, make sure you bring familiarity with them when you can. Favorite toys and bedding can act like a security blanket, and help your pets stay calmer throughout the process.

Make Sure Your Pets Are Used to Their Accommodations

Whether you have dogs or cats, you do not want to scoop them up, toss them in the car, and start driving one day. You need to take the time to get your pets used to traveling. For example, if you have a cat, put their carrying case on the floor with the door open. Let them get used to it being there and give them a chance to explore it. If you have a dog, get them used to a crate, or a kennel. Take them on progressively longer car trips and get them used to being passengers if you can. The more time you can take getting your pets on-board with moving (even if they are never really going to like it), the easier things are going to be.

Identification

Always make sure and keep identification on your pet. If the unthinkable happens and your pet gets lost in the shuffle of the move, how else will they find their way back to you? Make sure that their collar fits correctly and that their tag includes a phone number that will not be disconnected during the move. Getting your pet microchipped is a good idea, as well.

Chill Out... Your Pets Are Watching

We have said it before, and we’ll say it again…. moving is stressful. Even if everything goes perfectly (which it never does), you are going to have days where you just want to lay on the floor and throw a good, old-fashioned fit. No matter how stressful things get, though, it is important for you to remember that little eyes are watching you, and that you might be scaring them.

Your pets are already under a lot of stress from the whole process of moving. New stuff is appearing without explanation, familiar stuff is going out the door, and there are new people, like the professional movers, disrupting the routine. So, take a moment, take a breath, and remember that your pets need you to be calm and reassuring for them. Otherwise it might tip them over the edge of the stress meter.

If you are looking for a professional moving company to help with your upcoming move, contact us today!

 

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The Mickelson Family
Best. Move. Ever!
Very pleased with the overall respect and care the men gave to my possessions. Even mailing me very quickly the only thing lost in transit. Would recommend to anyone needing a long distant move.

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