MOVING WITH PETS: TIPS TO EASE THE TRANSITION

Moving with Pets: Tips to Ease the Transition

Relocating to a new home can be quite stressful. With all the packing, ensuring your belongings are safely transported, and the time spent evaluating the best moving companies, it can be overwhelming. However, it's important to remember that your pet might also be feeling the stress of the move. To make the transition smoother for both you and your pet, there are several steps you can take before you start packing, on the actual moving day, and once you're settling into your new home.

Tips to Try Before the Move

1. Maintain Their Routine: In the days and weeks leading up to the move, and even after you've settled into your new home, it's crucial to keep your pet's schedule consistent. This includes feeding times, walks, playtime, and their morning and evening routines. Keeping a steady routine will help your pet stay calm and happy during the transition.

2. Begin Packing Early: If your pet becomes anxious when their environment starts changing, begin packing well in advance. This will help your pet get used to the new activity and reduce their stress. Additionally, starting early will give you more time to pack and reduce the last-minute rush.

3. Consult Your Vet: If you'll need a new veterinarian after the move, visit your current vet beforehand to ensure your pet is up to date on vaccinations, get refills for any medications, and obtain a copy of their health records. If your pet is older or has health issues, ask the vet about a mild sedative for long-distance travel.

4. Arrange Pet Care for Moving Day: Moving day can be chaotic, so arrange for pet care in advance to reduce stress. This could be a daycare, pet sitter, or leaving your pet with family or friends. This not only eases your burden but also ensures your pet's safety with doors and windows open and people coming and going.

5. Pack Pet Items Last: When creating your packing checklist, place your pet's items at the bottom, and unpack them first upon arrival at your new home. This prevents your pet from getting stressed by missing their toys and treats, and familiar items will help them feel more secure in the new environment.

6. Introduce Them to the New Home: If you're moving locally, let your pet visit the new home before the move. This can help them get accustomed to the new surroundings.

Tips for Moving Day

1. Secure Them in a Safe Room: On moving day, keep your pets in a secure room to prevent them from escaping or getting injured amidst the commotion. Leave them in a quiet area with their familiar, unwashed bed and belongings.

2. Pack an Emergency Kit: Prepare an emergency kit for your pet that includes extra water, food, and the contact information for an emergency vet. Keep this kit with you during the move to ensure you have everything you might need for your pet readily available.

3. Prepare for Travel: If your pet is traveling by car to the new home, ensure they have what they need for a safe journey. Use a pet carrier or crate, and bring their favourite toys and a blanket to make the trip more comfortable.

Settling into the New Home

1. Inspect Boundary Fencing: Before letting your pets explore the garden, check that the boundary fencing is secure, tall enough, and free of holes. Keep dogs on a leash until you can ensure the area is safe.

2. Unpack Essentials First: Unpack essential items before introducing your pets to the new house. Familiar items in an unfamiliar setting will help them adjust more quickly. Try to place furniture and belongings in similar positions to those in your old home.

3. Maintain Normal Routines: Stick to your usual routines as much as possible to help your pets settle in. Dogs, in particular, will benefit from frequent walks in their new environment to acclimate more quickly.

4. Update Microchip Information: Remember to update your pet's microchip records with your new address.

Following these tips can help ensure a smoother transition for your furry friends, making the move as stress-free as possible for everyone involved.