Moving is a very stressful and complicated time and when pets are thrown into the mix it can be especially difficult. Your pets will probably know something is up when you start packing and cleaning extensively. It should be a priority for you to do things as normal as possible and remain on schedule so your pets don’t become too stressed or confused.
The first thing you should do regarding moving with your pets is to consult with your veterinarian. Get your pet a check up on their health and inform them of your moving plans. If your pets are due for any shots you should get them before you move since it may take you a while to find a new vet and may be required by your new home or airliner if you’re flying. The trip can be overwhelming or new for your pet, so consider getting a sedative if your move is long and get an updated list of all your pet’s records, shots, and treatments. Ask your vet if they know anyone in your new town so you can find a qualified professional quickly.
Confirm that your accommodations are pet friendly. You probably did this well in advance to moving, but you can never be too careful. Policy changes or errors could have been made on behalf of your new home and you will want to make sure your transportation method is pet friendly.
If you choose to drive your own vehicle you should have no worries about accommodating for your pet. If you rent a car or fly you will need to make sure that pets are permitted. Small dogs and cats are typically allowed to fly in the cabin with you and larger animals are in the cargo area. There can be some added challenges with flying and certainly some additional costs. Based on weather in each location your airline has the right to change your flights based on the temperatures in either location.
In the physical act of getting everything ready for the move, your pet will feel the stress just as you do. The additional people in your home, boxes, furniture and everything else out in the open can confuse your pet and make them uneasy. Try to plan the best you can to keep your pet calm and secure while you get everything together. The constant moving from your home to outside can increase the chances that your pet freaks out and runs outside. It would be a good idea to give them their own temporary room away from all the moving going on. If you don’t have a ton of space or extra room consider leaving them at doggy day care or with someone you trust until you’re ready to move.
Make a list specifically for your pet. Make sure they have their special toys, bed, blanket, treats or anything else that will make them feel comfortable. It will take them a while to feel comfortable in their new surrounding and will need to feel at home. Make sure you have all their information and medication or any other necessary things to maintain their health.
Try to stay on the same schedule in your new location to keep them in a steady habit. If you’re changing time zones you may have to delay or speed up your routines, but try to feed them and exercise at similar times to your current location.
Before you get your pet accommodated to your new home, inspect it yourself to make sure it’s safe. Things could have been broken when your belongings were brought it, windows could be open, or harmful things could have been left behind from the previous tenant or owner. Once you have confirmed that it’s safe, let your pet out to explore the new environment. Lay out their familiar items and spend some time with them. Make sure your yard, patio, and entry ways are secure for your pets. It may take some time but you and your pet should be acclimated to your home soon. A post move thing to remember is to get their tags and microchip updated!
