Moving to a new home is a big adjustment for everyone in your household, including your pets. Whether you have a curious cat, an energetic dog, or a more exotic companion, the upheaval of packing, traveling, and settling in can cause stress and confusion.
The good news? With a little planning and extra care, you can help your furry (or feathered) friend feel calm, safe, and secure throughout the move. Read on for three essential tips to make moving with pets a smooth and stress-free experience.
1. Prepare Your Pet Before the Move
Just like people, animals are creatures of habit. Sudden changes in routine or environment can be unsettling, so the key is to prepare for them gradually.
Start by introducing moving boxes and supplies early. Let your pet explore them to reduce anxiety about new sights and smells. Try to maintain regular feeding, walking, and play routines even as packing ramps up to keep a sense of normalcy for your pet.
If your pet is particularly sensitive or prone to anxiety, talk to your veterinarian ahead of time about ways to mitigate this. They may recommend calming supplements or tips to ease travel-related stress.
Additional tips to consider:
- Update your pet’s ID tags and microchip with your new address and phone number
- Pack a separate “pet essentials” kit with food, water, medications, leashes, and comfort items
- Keep recent vet records handy, especially if you’re moving out of state
2. Keep Pets Safe and Comfortable on Moving Day
Moving day is full of unfamiliar activity, such as open doors, strangers coming and going, and lots of noise. It’s also the most likely time for a pet to become overwhelmed or accidentally escape.
To keep your pet safe and out of the chaos, consider these options during your move:
- Secure them in a quiet room with their bed, food, and favorite toy
- Use a crate or carrier if your pet is used to one and feels secure inside
- Enlist help from a friend or hire a pet sitter for the day, if possible
If you’re moving long distances, ensure your pet is comfortable traveling by car. Plan for breaks every few hours, and never leave them unattended in a vehicle. For those flying, research airline policies and requirements well in advance for air travel.
3. Help Your Pet Adjust to Their New Home
Once you arrive at your new home, take things slow. While you may be eager to unpack and settle in, your pet will need time to explore, sniff around, and get used to the new environment.
Start by setting up a familiar space—think food bowls, bedding, toys, and a few favorite items from your previous home. This will give them a sense of comfort and continuity.
For dogs, begin with leash-guided walks around the house and yard to help them learn boundaries. Stick to familiar commands and reinforce positive behavior.
For cats, keep them confined to one room at first, gradually expanding their territory as they become more confident.
Consistency is key. Stick to your pet’s routine as closely as possible when it comes to feeding, walking, and attention. And be patient. It may take a few days (or weeks) for your pet to settle in fully, but they’ll begin to relax with reassurance and routine.
Make the Move Easier for the Whole Family
Moving with pets doesn’t have to be stressful. With thoughtful preparation and a little extra attention, you can ease their anxiety and help them feel right at home.
At Winter Moving & Storage, we understand that pets are family. That’s why we work hard to make your move as smooth and organized as possible, so you can focus on keeping everyone, two-legged and four-legged, comfortable during the transition.
Request your free estimate from our experts today and prepare for your exciting move ahead.
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