Moving houses is a stressful enough activity for most, so imagine what it must be like for your furry friends. Consider that they will not have a clue what’s going on while you’re running around moving and packing things. This could leave them overwhelmed and stressed out. It is, therefore, always a good idea to consider your pet’s needs and do what you can to help make the transition to a new home smoother for them. Here are some useful tips that can help your pets with the transition of moving to New York.
1. Pack Their Stuff Last
Seeing familiar items all over the house being removed from their proper places and packed can seem rather stressful for your pet. Lessen this stress by keeping their things (e.g., food and water bowls, favorite toys, beds, etc.) in their proper places and packing them at the very last minute. This way, they will still have their familiar “retreat” within reach in the days leading to the big move.
2. Keep Them Distracted
On moving day, keep your pets calm by keeping them in a quiet and less busy area of the house surrounded by the objects that comfort them. This could be in an empty bedroom, or even just a crate in a less busy corner. Being away from the frenzy of moving will not only help keep them calm, but also keep them out of the way. The last thing you want on top of all the activity is an excitable pet underfoot.
3. Act Like Their Chauffeur
Make sure to take your pet to the new house with you in your own vehicle. Letting your pet ride with unfamiliar people in the moving truck can cause more stress than is necessary. It will truly be a great comfort to your pet if you, their human, are within their presence. If your pet is not accustomed to traveling (especially cats), it might also be a good idea to cover their carrier with a light blanket so they won’t be stressed out by the changing environment. Also, don’t feed your pet at least 4 hours before going on the road to prevent accidents caused by motion sickness. And if you’re going on a long drive, make sure to take lots of pit stops and allow your pet to stretch his/her legs and go to the potty.
4. First Impressions are Everything, Even for Pets
A rule of thumb when moving with pets is to move the house before you move the pet. So set up the new house as best as you can before introducing your furry family member to the new surroundings. If you’re only able to do up one room, that’s okay. Confine your pet to that area of the house (preferably in a crate and/or surrounded by familiar objects) while you work on setting up the rest of the house. You can then gradually introduce your pet to other areas of the house.
5. Find a New Vet
If you’re moving out of town, it is always a good idea to inform your vet and take your pet’s medical records with you. This is especially important if your pet requires special care. Your vet may even be able to recommend a new vet in your new area.
6. Update the Information on Your Pets’ Microchip
Lastly, make sure to update your pet’s tags and microchip with your new address and phone number. As stressful as moving might seem to you, know that it is likely doubly so for your pets. So make sure to consider their needs, as well. After all, they’re part of the family, too. If all this moving planning and preparation is stressing you out, let us help you. Ask us for a moving quote.
