If you have found yourself a new dream home and you have to move there soon, it is not going to be easy. There are many things to consider and even more that you will have to do – from hiring a moving company, to packing all of your belongings and safely transporting them to the new destination.
It is rather easy to get lost in the chaos of tasks that you need to look into and forget about your beloved pets. The truth is that the stress is going to get to them too, since all the commotion and change of environment is not something that is easy for them to get used to. Cats in particular are especially territorial and they grow attached to places, so they are certainly not fans of relocation. In order to ensure that the transition with your pet from one home to another goes smoothly and without too much trouble, you have to consider the following tips:
- Ensure the new home is right for your pet – you have to make sure that your pet will actually feel comfortable in the new home. Doing a walk around the neighborhood will outline potential problems, such as dogs that are aggressive and left unattended. As for square footage, it is different for cats and dogs. Ensure you can provide enough vertical space for your feline friend. For dogs, you have to consider whether they will need to go out often, in which case a house with backyard will be ideal.
- Make an appointment with the vet – since you are likely not going to visit the same vet anymore, you should make an appointment and tell them of the situation. They might be able to provide information on possible vet options in the new area, if they have knowledge and such contacts. Furthermore, they can prescribe a mild sedative or other medicine for your pet to deal with the move. It is also best if you do all shots and vaccinations before the actual removal takes place. Go through the documentation of your pet with the vet to ensure that it is all in order.
- Get your pet used to a carrier – you are most likely going to transport your pet in a carrier. This might prove a bit problematic for your pet, in case you have never confined them in such an item before. You must introduce the carrier to your pet and get them used to it as much as possible before the actual relocation. The way to do this is to place the carrier near their feeding area, and gradually place the meal closer to it. Finally, start placing the food inside so that your pet will have to go in there. The ultimate goal is to have them feel secure and not scared by going into the carrier and spending time there.
- Present moving boxes – all house removals feature a number of moving boxes. These are the most useful containers, since it is easy to fit all kind of items inside. It is likely that you will need a good number of those; in fact so much that you might stress your pet by bringing them all in. To prevent such stress, you can bring in few boxes before your actual removal and allow your pet to get accustomed to them.
- Acquire an ID tag for your pet – it is important to keep an identity collar tag on your pet with your contact information in the unfortunate event your pet gets lost. That is the best way to guarantee your pet will be returned to you should they escape or get lost during removals.
- Don’t change the routine of your pet – even though times are demanding and you may not have free time, you must still ensure that your pet receives adequate attention from you. If you don’t keep up with the same feeding and play times, the stress of your pet will only add up. In fact, now is the time to show even more attention to them, since they are going to need it.
- Groom your pet for the move – long-haired companions will feel uncomfortable in the heat of summer. Considering that this is the most likely season you are going to move in, you should groom your pet to ensure they are in top condition for the move.
- Keep your pet in a locked room on moving day – since there is going to be a lot of commotion, with the expert movers coming in and out of your home, you will do good to keep your pet out of it. Leave all of the pet equipment in one room and keep your pet inside to prevent them from wandering off away from the chaos. Make sure you visit regularly to see if they are ok.
- Give your pet time to adjust in your new home – when you finally reach your destination, don’t be too quick in allowing your pet full access to the home. It is best if you keep them in one room the first few days, just to see how they are doing. Gradually introduce them to the rest of the home, before finally allowing them free outdoors access.
A change of homes is not an easy time for you and your pet as well. Make sure you take these tips into account to ensure that you go through a stress-free relocation with your pet.
