When people move, it can be an overwhelming experience, and you may freak out if there are any setbacks, complications, etc. Have you ever thought about family pets? Your favorite, furry companions can find the moving process downright traumatic if you don’t make some necessary preparations. To keep your pets on an even keel and in a zen moment, animal experts are sharing some tips.
1. Like Humans, Pets Prefer Routines
Human beings are creatures of habit, and the same could be said about the family dog or cat. They get comfortable with a schedule and expect things to go as usual. On moving day, animal behavior coaches advise keeping your pet’s routine as normal as you can.
Pets need stability, so maintain their usual routines for walking, feeding, playtime, etc. even in the middle of the transition to keep them calm and feeling stress-free.
Dogs can handle small adjustments, and you can introduce some of these before your moving day.
2. Their Crate Becomes A Safe Space
Veterinarians agree that a pet crate symbolizes safety and security to your furry friends. Their recommendation is to give your pup plenty of practice with the crate before the big day. Pull out the crate a few weeks in advance and allow them access to it.
Dog experts say that the crate is like a sanctuary for your pet, and many of these animals seek peace and quiet from the family and retreat to the crate during hectic home life situations.
To make the crate an ideal spot for feeling safe and cozy, vets suggest placing a mat or pad inside it so that your pet can enjoy snuggling up and sleeping with a favorite toy.
If you’re moving from the United States to another country, then, you would need an airline-approved travel crate for your pet. Once again, it’s important to have your pet get familiar with spending time in their crate.
There are professionals who offer excellent pet transportation services and are highly skilled in handling all of the safe pet travel logistics. That way, you can relax and know that your fur baby is in great hands.
3. Keep Your Pet Separated From The Chaos
Moving stuff around is never pretty, and you may have tons of boxes required for your relocation. Moving experts advise doing gradual packing. In other words, let your pet see that there are boxes in the rooms so that the general housing routine doesn’t appear out of place.
When it comes to the big day, however, separate your cat or dog from the action, and place them in a quiet room with the door closed when the movers arrive.
The packing chaos would only stimulate your pet and cause anxiety and confusion.
4. Touch Base With The Veterinarian
Your cat or dog’s vet will be able to guide you about moving with your furry companion and have tips about your particular breed and how to make the smoothest transition for them.
For example, is a sedative necessary for your pet to keep them calm during the travel day?
You should also have your pet examined by the veterinarian to ensure the animal is in good health before the move, etc.
5. Then, Create A New Routine
Moving isn’t easy for human beings or family pets, but little by little, everyone adapts to their new surroundings.
Pet coaches suggest, for example, introducing your dog to the new neighborhood with a walk after you arrive there. Your furry friend will enjoy sniffing about and becoming familiar with the terrain.
A dog’s sense of smell is so powerful that when they’re brought to a new location, it can sniff around a tree and figure out what other dogs live in the neighborhood.
After relocating, vets recommend getting back into a routine with the cat or dog and returning a sense of safety and security to these beautiful, precious creatures. They’ll calm down and acclimate to a new but familiar schedule of walking, feeding, and playing.
Bottom Line
Family pets mean the world to their owners. If you’re planning a move, study the expert list above. Here’s to a smooth transition, and happy trails!
