Moving with Pets

Moving is among the most stressful experiences and it can be especially stressful for our furry friends. Pets often detect a change and may be sensitive to moving house. So, you should prepare them and ensure they have a safe journey. While you’re taking care of their health and safe transition, you also need to handle the relocation process itself. Go ahead and create a handy moving checklist. The list will help you stay on track and have a smooth transition for you and your pet. If you’re about to move and you’re wondering how to make it easier for your four-legged family member, we’ve got you covered. Carry on reading to find tips on moving with pets.

Prepare boxes in advance

Pets are easily disturbed by change. They can also detect that something is going on and that things are about to change. To avoid them getting stressed, help them get used to the new situation. Get boxes in advance and get them out like it’s not a big deal, just leave them around. It’s important to create a positive association with boxes. Just give them a treat when they start sniffing and being curious about it.

Keep the routine

As mentioned earlier, pets don’t always deal well with changes, and keeping their regular routine is important. Even though you’ll be very busy during the relocation process, make sure to maintain a daily schedule with your pet and take time to feed and walk them at usual times.

Give them time to acclimate

Our pets usually don’t like carriers because we mostly use them when visiting vets, and no pet loves the experience of getting shots at the vet. You can try and change their experience by using a carrier for a nice experience, like going to a nice new place. Be patient and let them acclimate to the new surroundings, for example, if you’re moving with a dog, take them to your new neighborhood a few times before moving to get used to it in advance.

A health checkup

You want to make sure that your pet is healthy and ready to move, especially if you’re moving long-distance. If you’re moving to another country, you’ll also need to obtain their health record. It’s best if you schedule a checkup a few weeks before relocation.

Find a new vet

After you visit the current veterinarian and make sure you’re all set and ready to move, you should also locate a new vet. Depending on the country you’re moving to, you may have to visit a new vet instantly and get the required shots, so start searching in advance for the most suitable vet.

Update info

The same way you have to update your documents and your address, the same you have to do for your pet. Make sure that their microchip information is updated and that your furry friend has a new identification tag.

Transportation

Decide on how you want to transport your pet. There are several options to do so, and an airplane is the most often one. If you choose to fly with your pet, don’t forget to check the airline’s policies because you may be required to provide health records or meet other requirements. While being transported, your pet shouldn’t be in tight spaces or transported in the bed of a truck or anything similar. There should be enough space for a pet to stay comfortable and safe.

Pamper

You don’t want your pet to be stressed because of moving house, so don’t be afraid to pamper them during the process. If possible, give them extra cuddles or a new toy and pamper them in any way you know they enjoy. Prepare well for the journey and get a window shade for your car, a collapsible water bowl, baby wipes, some extra towels, and of course, don’t forget their favorite treats.

Check regulations

If you’re moving locally, you don’t have to worry about it, but if you’re moving to another country, it’s necessary to check local laws and regulations regarding pet entry. Some countries may have different regulations and your pet may be required to get certain shots or quarantine for a while after you arrive.

Make your home safe

When moving to a new home with your pet, you should make it safe and check if there are problem areas that need to be fixed. There may be some things you can’t avoid, like an extremely steep staircase, but most things in your home could be fixed without any issues. For example, place screens on your windows so that your pet wouldn’t go out. Make sure that areas that are off-limits are not accessible to the pet, a similar thing you would do to baby-proof space. You should be extra cautious if you’re a cat owner. Check if there are any places your cat could use to wiggle out. Consider vents and passageways and make sure they’re all closed. If you own a dog, you should locate outdoor spaces for walks, and if you have a garden, it’s only a plus.

However, check the fence and make absolutely sure your dog can’t get out. Also, watch out for house plants. While we all enjoy the beauty of plants in our homes, many of them are toxic to pets. For instance, ivy, Lily, even Aloe Vera you love using is dangerous for your pet. Consider choosing the ones that are safe or opt for artificial ones.

The landlord

The last tip on our list, but a very important one, applies if you’re renting a home. Don’t forget the landlord, make sure you contact them in advance and let them know that you own a pet. The reason is that some landlords may be less flexible or require additional fees for living with pets.