Tips on Moving with Pets

You’ve started packing. You’ve finalized your lists of who is doing what. You still have several weeks before your move, and keep feeling like there is something you may have forgotten to do. And at that moment, your cat jumps in your lamp, your dog starts barking, and the light bulb goes on…what special provisions need to be made for your pets?

Maintain Your Routines

At this point, it’s likely that your animals may have picked up on the fact that something is going on. Try to keep to any routines you have established to keep your pet’s anxiety level down. Don’t pack any of your pet’s belongings until the very last minute so that they feel comforted by familiar things still being there. You may also want to keep a closer eye on keeping exterior doors closed so that your pet doesn’t run out and away.

Making Travel Arrangements

If you are making a short move, asking a friend or family member to keep your pet for a few days is a terrific option. This keeps your animal out of harms way, and prevents them from getting lost, and adding to the stress of trying to get your belongings moved.

If you have a longer trip planned, there are several options to consider. If you are flying, the size of your pet may determine where they stay during the flight. For smaller dogs, a special pet carrier can be purchased and they can ride in the baggage compartment. Larger dogs may have to travel in the freight area. In this case, a direct flight is best so that your pet is not subjected to extremes in heat during transit.

Having your vet prescribe a tranquilizer for your pet may make the trip less stressful as well. If you are driving, be prepared to stop along the way for your pet to use the bathroom, and keep a leash and plastic bags handy for this. Bring a bowl for your dog to have a drink from. And asking your pet for some anti-nausea medication may be a sound call before your drive.

You may also want to consider boarding your pet. By doing this, they are safely cared for while you are packing your current home. You may want to have this service carried over until you are unpacked at your new home so that you can give them some extra attention once the move is over. Getting your pet back into their regular routine (or close to it) as soon as possible will make your animal feel more at ease.

Remember that moving can be stressful to your pets. Try to keep this in mind if they act up or have accidents, and treat them with kindness as they get used to their new home.