Moving can be stressful for people, so just imagine how anxious it can make your pets. They can easily get stressed out when there’s unexpected activity in their home or when they’re introduced to a new environment. I’ve moved with four cats and a fish, and it’s not an easy task. These challenges don’t come with a formula solution, but here are some tips that should make the experience a bit calmer for your beloved companion(s). Courtesy of the ASPCA.
Tips for Success
- On moving day, keep your pets in a quiet room with the door shut, or at a friend’s house. This ensures that your cat or dog won’t get scared and try to make a quick getaway while the movers load up the truck.
- If you’re moving out of the area, inform your vet so you can take medical records and any prescription medications with you when you move. See if they can recommend another vet in your new neighborhood or use a neighborhood app like NextDoor to find a new caregiver for your animals.
- Be careful when transporting the animal to your new neighborhood because if they get out they can easily get lost. Once in the car, it’s important to not open the kennel until the pet is in the new home. Even if the pet is usually well-behaved or docile, give them a few days in the new home to adjust.
- It is a good idea to pet-proof your new home. This can include tucking away electrical cords, making sure that all windows have secure screens, removing poisonous houseplants and confirm that no pest-control poison traps have been left anywhere in the house.
- When you arrive at your new home at the end of your long journey, it will be tempting to set your dog or cat loose in the house to explore. However, a new and unfamiliar space can be overwhelming to your pets. Start by introducing your pet the new environment – usually one room at the time. Take it slow as some animals might require more time to adjust to the new home.
