Moving with Pets

Moving to a new place can be very exciting. You get to meet new friends and stay in a new neighborhood. While this may seem all fun, moving with your pets can be challenging. Pets are easily disturbed by sudden changes, especially with the environment. If you’re a pet owner, especially a fur parent for either a cat or dog, we’ve gathered tips for moving with pets. These are divided into three sections, with each answering the following questions:

• How can you condition your pet for the move?
• How can you ease your pet’s anxiousness during the move?
• How can you help your pet adjust to the new environment?

Preparing for the Move

Moving with your pets is quite different. You don’t just pack your bags, call the movers, and head to your new house. You need to condition your pet too. Here are tips to help your pet.

1. Make a plan

Pet dogs and cats are sensitive to changes. They easily sense the shift which can lead them to be anxious.

Plan your move for a few months to help them adjust. You can also ask one of your family members to attend to your dog’s needs while you arrange your move.

2. Get your pets used to packing supplies and boxes

Imagine your living room as your pet sees it, piled with moving boxes. That will surely be a mess!

To make sure you get some packing done and keep your pet calm, get your pet used to these boxes ahead of time. Set a room where you can stock boxes weeks before your move. Fill some of the boxes with several items and leave them open. Your pet may find it interesting at first, but your dog or cat will get used to it eventually and won’t mind it at all.

3. Help your pet release some anxiety

Make a little extra time to entertain them and help them burn off that anxious energy by taking them for a walk or play session. This will calm them down.

If you don’t have enough time on your hands, you can consider asking a friend to help you take care of your pet and schedule some outdoor playdates. There are also dog walking services that can help you get your pet some exercise.

4. Have a space for your items and your pet to roam around

Sooner or later, your house will be piled with moving boxes and half-taken-apart furniture. Your pet may not be comfortable with this mountain of clutter.

Have a place in your house where your pet can move. Better yet, have a storage unit to keep your items before you move. This will give your pet enough space to move around.

5. Call your vet for a checkup

Visit the vet a few weeks before your move. He can prescribe medication and recommend a vet in your new location. He can also help you with the following:

• Check whether your pet has obtained current rabies vaccinations and certification if needed.
• Make sure your pet is healthy and stocked with the prescribed medication.
• Request a copy of your pet’s medical records.
• Ask for vet recommendations.
• Ask if your pet needs additional tests or vaccinations if you’re moving out of state.

6. Know the law in the state you’re moving to concerning your pets

Most states have laws that cover the importation of dogs, cats, horses, and other pets. If you’re moving to a different state, you must know the law of that state concerning your pet.

Some have certain travel restrictions and may require you to prepare your pet to avoid long kennel quarantine. Additionally there are states that inspect animals at the border or ask for health certificates.

7. Plan for pet-friendly accommodation and routes

Plan a pet-friendly route going to your new home. You can pull over and rest with your pet to help them become more at ease with the ride.

8. Prepare a separate emergency moving bag for your pet

Have your pet’s favorite treats, toys, water bowls, blanket, litter box, paper rolls, and disposable plastic box in one moving bag. You may need this to keep your pets entertained and for unexpected cleanups.

Easing Your Pet’s Anxiety During the Move

Conditioning your pet before the move is only the first part. It can be more challenging during the actual move. You can help your pet feel less anxious with these tips.

1. Keep your pet with you in your vehicle

One way to ease your pet’s anxiety is to take him or her with you on your ride. Whether your pet is kept in a cage or not, letting your pet stay with you will give them that sense of security.

2. Don’t let your pet out until you’ve arrived

Keep your pet in a cage or on a leash (for dogs) while you’re traveling. Once in the car, be careful not to open the cage or let them go. They might easily get out and get lost in a new neighborhood.

3. Move your things before moving your pet

You can move your items ahead of time to your new place or store them in self-storage near where you’ll be moving. This will help you attend to your pet better and make him feel more relaxed once you reach your destination.

4. Prepare safety items for your pets

You also need to prepare safety items like a seatbelt or a crate or carrier for your pet. This will keep your pet secure in case of an accident. You can also put a blanket over your pet to reduce visual stimulation if you think they’ll feel anxious during the move.

Making Your Pet Feel At Home

New home, new environment. While there are so many things you need to settle in your new home, your pet may be struggling to settle in an unfamiliar place. Help your dog feel at home with these tips.

1. Place your pet in a secure area in the house

You can keep your pet in a cleaner and more spacious area in your house. This will make them feel at ease when there’s less mess in their surroundings.

2. Stick to your schedule

One way to reduce your pet’s anxiety is to stick to his schedule. Feed him, give him water to drink, give him treats and take him on walks during his usual time.

3. Contact a vet

One of the first things you need to do is to contact a nearby vet. You can search for a clinic online or visit the vet recommended to you. The American Veterinary Medical Association has some helpful tips as well as the American Animal Hospital Association® (AAHA) with their animal hospital locator.

Have your pet checked and ask what you need to present according to what the state law requires. Provide your dog’s medical records to the new vet.

4. Rent self storage to have more space in your new home

After the move, there may be items you need to store temporarily. Having a self storage unit will help you prepare your home and maintain a spacious area for your pet to feel at ease.

Final Thoughts

Moving can be exciting, especially since it can be a whole new adventure for you and your pets. These are just some tips for moving with pets. Applying these may assist you in helping your pets relax. It may take a lot of adjustment, but by being mindful of your pet’s needs, eventually, it will all work out.