If you’ve decided to move to a new home, you’re in for quite a ride. But, if you’ve got pets, then we know exactly how much stress you’re experiencing. Your pets are going to be anxious due to the fact that you’re moving furniture around and packing up your possessions. Unfamiliarity is their worst enemy. That’s why we’ve decided to make a moving guide especially for all you pet owners!
Tips before you start your move
A few weeks before the move, pack up a pet travel bag. Place all your pet’s essentials, including food, treats, and other things. It’s best to make a list of all the things your pet might need, so you don’t forget anything by accident.
Also, remember to make temporary ID tags for them. Inform your vet about the move so you can take your pets records with you. Another thing you can do is to ask for a recommendation for a new vet in your area. That way you don’t have to worry if your pet gets sick during the move.
If your pet is due for its shots in a few weeks, a smart thing to do is to ask your veterinarian to administer them early. If you wait until you get to your new home, you’ll probably forget all about the shots because you’ll be busy unpacking.
Furthermore, you can also ask your veterinarian for some sedatives to keep your animal calm during the trip.
Tips during the move
First of all, you need to make sure that your pet is calm. The stress of moving will most surely make your pet more anxious than ever. That’s why you need to make sure that you provide them with a calm and soothing environment, so they don’t sense that anything is different.
Consider making them a space where they can play with all of their toys until you move. The less it seems that you’re moving things around, the better.
Furthermore, you should take your pet to a groomer. After all, you’re moving to a new area where you don’t know the location of the best groomers. You need to be prepared for the fact that our pet will most likely shed even more than usual due to the stress of moving.
If it’s at all possible, take them in your car with you (depending on where you’re moving). By keeping your pet close, you’re providing it with a safe environment where it won’t be scared or lonely.
Tips for when you reach your new home
We know that you can hardly wait to finally reach your destination. However, your pet will be scared due to the fact that it is now in unfamiliar territory. The best thing you can do is find a room where you can set up all of its toys, and let your pet get comfy. It’s going to take some time, but you need to let your furry friend get acquainted with its surroundings so it can calm down faster.
You should never allow it to roam around the house until you check to see if all the windows and doors are closed and if there is anything that could possibly hurt them.
Additional tip: Consider keeping your dog in a kennel when you’re not at home. Also, you should keep him in a strong leash while you let him roam around their new area to prevent it from causing any damage to your new home. Remember, it will be nervous and restless for a while.
Another important thing to remember is to never wash your pets’ blankets or toys. By leaving a familiar smell, you’ll allow your pet to calm down quicker.
Overall, spoiling your pet during the move is always a good idea. Let it sleep in your bed and give it extra treats. If it refuses to eat right away, don’t be surprised. It’s highly common for animals to do that. Just be patient and monitor its food and water intake regularly.
How to use self-storage to help you and your pet through the move
As we mentioned, putting the needs of your pet before anything else should be your number one priority. That’s why we have the perfect solution that will allow you to focus your full attention on your pet, and also make sure your belongings are kept safe at all times. Use a self-storage unit to help you through the move.
Basically, by storing your belongings somewhere safe, you won’t have to worry about ignoring your pet while you unpack everything. Give your furry friend your undivided attention by only bringing in the essentials while it gets accustomed to its surroundings.
Furthermore, by renting out a storage unit, you can also take time to figure out where you’re going to place all your furniture and other possessions. It’s a win-win situation.
We know that you’re going to be busy adjusting to your new home and that you’ve got plenty of things on your plate. However, you need to remember to find some time to play with your pet and keep it happy. Never ignore it, or else it will get depressed.
Hopefully, these tips will help both you and your pet have a less stressful move. Remember, familiarity is key in these types of situations, so keep your pet’s toys and blankets handy at all times. Not only that, but you’ll need to keep walking it at the same time you did before the move. We know you’ll be busy but try to keep to your schedule as much the same as possible.
