As if moving, packing, and planning a new home isn’t stressful enough, an added task that can potentially complicate the process is safely and happily relocating your pets. Making sure your furry friends are moved to a new home with minimal disruption to their routine can be tough! However, there are steps you can take to ensure your pet – and you – remain cool, calm, and collected through your entire move.
Keep calm
On moving day, there will be lots of commotion and change, two factors that can stress animals out. Keep your pet separate from the hubbub in another room or even at a friend’s house, if available. Pets also respond to mood changes in their owners, so it’s important to set a good example by remaining calm and in control, even when the move gets particularly frustrating . This way, everything will feel as normal as possible until it’s time for them to go, and you won’t risk a panicked pet trying to make a getaway when a door is left ajar.
Get pets used to transportation
Before you even start loading the moving truck, take time to acclimate your pet to their crate. Ensuring they feel safe and comfortable in their crate will make for an easy transfer from their old home, to the car, to their new home. Try turning their crate into a “safe space” for them during the confusion of moving. Put food or treats in it ahead of time so they know it’s theirs and they associate it with positive things. . You can also place their favorite toy or blanket inside so it feels familiar.
Pet-proof before you let them explore
Wires, electrical outlets, poisonous plants, and sharp edges are just a few of the dangers a new home can hold. Humans may not notice these hazards, but a curious puppy or kitty will be quick to find – and possibly be hurt by – hidden dangers in your new home. Before bringing your pet home, check the place for anything they may lick or touch (including pest control traps or other chemicals) and clear the hazards before they start to explore. Then, once the area is deemed safe, introduce your pet to the home one room at a time to keep them from being overwhelmed. You’ll likely find they’re adjusting and ready to move on to the next room before you are! Have your pet with you while you unpack and set up the house, and try to mimic their food and bathroom set-up so there are no messy “accidents.”
Make your pet easily identifiable if they make a run for it
It’s something no one wants to think about but is important to be prepared for, just in case. In the chaos of moving day, it’s easy for a pet to scurry out a back door or escape from an unlatched crate. If this happens, you want your pet returned to you as soon as possible. Make sure your pet has a collar with tags that include your name and phone number. Ideally, your pet would also be microchipped so your contact information can be read by a vet even if their collar comes off.
Taking it slow, making your pet comfortable, and having a plan of action if you become separated are foolproof ways to ensure an easy and safe move for your pet. Before you know it, they will be king or queen of the castle once more!
