Just like humans, pets may find moving to a new house stressful. The moving process itself is disruptive to a pet’s routine. Couple that with unfamiliar surroundings and the whole experience is very unsettling. Here are our top tips on how to keep your little furry and feathered friends happy during the move.
1. Prepare Your Pet
If you need to use a kennel for the move, prepare your pet by introducing it a few weeks beforehand. Put comfy bedding and pet treats in it for them to find. Then when it comes to moving day, they will already be accustomed to entering the kennel.
2. Know State Laws
Be sure to update your contact details with your vet If you are moving locally.
Since pet regulations vary significantly by state, if you are moving interstate, contact the state veterinarian and the town hall to learn about pet regulations and license fees.
3. Update Your Pet’s ID
Pets moving to a new location can find it confusing and often get lost in their new surroundings. It is essential to have a pet identification tag made. You could use a simple luggage tag and write your pet’s name, your name, destination address, and telephone number. Or, visit a local pet supply shop to have one made and attached to the collar.
Also, make sure that you update your pet’s microchip registration information so that If your pet gets lost, you can be contacted at your current location.
4. Keep Pets Away From the Action
It’s best for animals of all shapes and sizes to be kept far away from the busy moving day activities. Put them in a quiet room and keep the door shut. Or, if possible, have a neighbor or friend pet-sit that day with your pet at their house.
5. Drive Your Pet to the New House
Federal regulations state that moving companies cannot carry animals in vans. Driving your pet yourself is the best option to ease their stress levels. Pack a pet travel kit that includes familiar bedding, a leash, treats, water, a favorite toy, and cleanup equipment.
Cover bird cages with a towel or light fabric during transportation. Remove water from the cage to avoid spillage but provide regular water throughout the trip.
6. Traveling by Plane
If your move requires you to transport your pet by plane, make sure you do thorough research. Each airline has its own rules and regulations concerning pet transport. You might need to microchip your pet, have a current Rabies Vaccine, and a recent Fit to Fly Health (APHIS 7001) Certificate.
Contact your airline directly for its specific requirements.
7. Staying Overnight
If you need to spend a day or two overnight in a hotel, then visit petswelcome.com to search for pet-friendly hotels along your route.
8. Introduce the New House Slowly
Do not let your pet out of their cage or kennel until you are in the house ready to unpack. If your pet’s bedding and a familiar spot in the old house was the kitchen, place their bedding there and start by introducing that one room. When they feel settled, introduce another room. Carry on until they know and feel comfortable in the whole house.
9. Create Familiarity
Animals are accustomed to their usual routine and surroundings so replicate these in the new home. For example, if the water bowl is usually next to the back door then position it there in the new house.
10. Familiarizing Your Pet With the Neighborhood
After moving to the new home and introducing the rooms, walk your dog around the block. Take time to let them become used to their surroundings and the smells.
If your cat is an outdoor cat do not let him outside until he is familiar with his surroundings. Expect this to take a few weeks.
One Big Happy Family!
Follow these simple tips, and your pet will soon adjust to its new surroundings. We’re here to help move you, your loved ones, and your pets to your new house. Contact us for a quote today.