Make Moving Smooth For Your Furry Family Members

Let’s be honest; moving is stressful. But imagine if you can’t read, all you see is the chaos of boxes, and stressed-out humans everywhere. Sounds even more stressful, right? That’s why it is crucial to look after your pets during the moving process.

Here are 10 ways you can prepare your pet for a move:

1. BECOME FAMILIAR WITH PET RULES AND REGULATIONS

Homeowners’ associations may have specific rules regarding your type of pet, make sure you check that your pet is accepted. Your pet may need additional vaccinations, medications or certain certificates depending on where you are moving. 

2. TALK TO YOUR CURRENT VET

If you have an animal that dislikes traveling, your vet can suggest behavior modification techniques or medication that can make traveling less stressful for your pet. When talking to your vet, also discuss micro-chipping which will make it easier to find your beloved pet.

3. FIND A NEW VET

Find a new veterinarian in the new city before you make the move. Your current vet may be able to make recommendations for colleagues they know in the area. When finding a new vet, it is recommended to set up an appointment as soon as you move in order to get established.

4. GET YOUR PET'S MEDICAL RECORDS

Before you leave your old home, make sure you get a copy of all of your pet’s medical records to give to your new vet. Also be aware of the closest emergency animal hospital, just in case.

5. UPDATE YOUR ADDRESS

Don’t forget to have new identification tags with your new address and phone number made for your pet’s collar, and if your pet has an identification microchip, remember to update your contact information in the database.

6. KEEP THINGS NORMAL

Instead of staying up all night to pack, try to pack over a long period of time so that your pet thinks everything is normal, to keep stress levels low. If you are moving with cats, it can help to bring out their carriers out a few a weeks before the move. Keep your pet’s food, water, bowls, medication and any other important supplies off the moving truck and with you.

7. KNOW WHERE YOUR PET WILL BE ON MOVING DAY

During the actual moving day, where boxes and furniture are being moved, pets should be removed. Find a friend who wouldn’t mind pet sitting or find a place away from all the noise of moving such as a doggy daycare or cat care center. Keeping pets locked away in a room during moving day can make them anxious from all the noise and new people that might be in your home. 

8. TRAVEL WITH YOUR PET

Unless your move is long distance or international, your pet will likely be traveling by car with you nearby. By driving them yourself, you can care for them and give them a sense of familiarity as they move. Also, remember to plan ahead for any special carriers your pets may need for transportation. 

9. BE PREPARED FOR AIR TRAVEL

If you are moving your pet by air or internationally, check all rules and regulations way ahead of time of the day you plan to leave and remember to keep your pet’s special documentation at hand.

10. AFTER MOVING DAY, DON’T LET PETS ROAM AROUND THE NEIGHBORHOOD UNTIL THEY ARE ACCLIMATED

Take them out on a leash to explore their new territory and show them how to get home. If you let them out in a new place right away, they might get lost or run away due to stress. Make sure your pet’s new identification tags are secured to their collar.

For other great moving tips, check out our Relocation Checklist and Moving Guide