A Guide to Moving With Pets
Moving is stressful enough for the humans involved, who understand the point of all the commotion. However, for your furry companions, it can often be a frustrating and even traumatic experience.
Proper planning can make moving with pets a smooth and easy experience. Whether you’re relocating across the country or across town, this guide from the moving professionals at Advantage Storage will help you keep your pets comfortable and set them up to enjoy their new home.
What To Know Before Relocating With Pets
Relocating with pets requires careful planning to keep your furry companions safe and happy. Start by scheduling a visit with your veterinarian to check that your pet is up to date on vaccinations and discuss any health concerns or travel anxieties while you’re there. Obtain copies of their medical records, and if you’re moving to a new area, ask for recommendations for veterinarians in your destination.
Remember to update your pet’s identification tags and microchip information with your new address and phone number—if that’s changing. Also, familiarize yourself with pet regulations at your new location, including neighborhood leash laws and breed restrictions.
Packing Your Pets’ Belongings
Your pets’ happiness is often predicated on routine, positive reinforcement, and familiar scents. When packing your belongings for your move, set aside a pet essentials bag the night before you leave to protect certain things. These include:
- Food and water bowls
- Enough food and treats for the journey
- Medications
- Favorite toys
- Blankets or bedding with familiar scents
- A leash or harness
- Waste bags or a litter box
- A kennel or carrier, if used
Arranging Transportation For Your Pet
The method of transportation you choose for your pet depends on the distance of your move. If you’re flying, check airline policies for pet travel and ensure you have an airline-approved pet carrier. Invest in a secure crate or harness for car travel to keep your pet safe.
Never leave your pet alone in a parked vehicle, especially during extreme temperatures. If you’re using a pet transport service, research their reputation and ask plenty of questions to make sure your furry friend will be handled with care.
Planning a Pet-Friendly Road Trip
If you’re driving to your new home, a pet-friendly road trip can make the journey more enjoyable for everyone. Plan frequent stops to let your pet stretch, relieve themselves, and hydrate. Bring along comforting items like their favorite toys or blankets to soothe them during stressful times.
Map out pet-friendly accommodations in advance if your trip requires overnight stays. Many hotels and motels welcome pets but confirm their policies before booking. Services like BringFido can help you make pet-friendly accommodations with ease.
How To Move a Cat
Cats can be particularly grumpy during a relocation, as they are sensitive animals when it comes to changes in their living environment. Here’s how to move a cat with minimal stress:
- Acclimate the carrier. Introduce your cat to its carrier weeks before the move. Leave it open in a familiar space and line it with a cozy blanket.
- Keep your cat stabilized. Keep your cat in its carrier on moving day to prevent accidents or escape. Ensure the carrier is well-ventilated and secure in the car.
- Minimize stress. Avoid loud noises and sudden movements. Play soothing music or talk through the front gate, and cover it up with a light blanket to reduce visual stimulation.
Once at your new home, it can help to confine your cat to a single quiet room with its essentials until they adjust to their new surroundings.
Tips for Moving With a Dog
Dogs are generally more adaptable to new spaces than cats, but moving with a dog still requires preparation. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Stick to a routine. Maintain feeding, walking, and play schedules as much as possible during the move.
- Use a leash or crate. On moving day, secure your dog in a crate or keep them on a leash to prevent them from running off.
- Calming aids. If your dog is prone to anxiety, consider using calming sprays or consult your vet about medication.
You’ll want to slowly introduce your dog to the new home, starting with one or two rooms unless they’re very responsible. Taking them for walks to explore the neighborhood can also help them acclimate.
Moving With Multiple Pets
Moving with multiple pets can be especially challenging. But, to prevent stress-induced aggression, keep pets separated during the move. Designate specific carriers or crates for each animal and label them clearly to avoid confusion.
If possible, enlist the help of a friend or family member to pet-sit for you while you handle logistics like loading up your moving truck. This will keep them safe and out of the way during the chaos of moving day.
Helping Older Pets Relocate Comfortably
Older pets may require extra care during a move. Provide extra padding in their carrier for joint support, and give them their toys or blankets to keep them calm.
Watch out for signs of stress or discomfort and schedule more frequent stops during a road trip to accommodate their needs. Once you’re settled, give your senior pet plenty of time to explore and adjust to the new environment at its own pace.
Setting Up Your New Home for Your Pet
Creating a safe and welcoming space in your new home is key to helping your pet adjust. Set up their bed, toys, food, and water in a quiet area away from the hustle and bustle. Gradually introduce them to different parts of the house, starting in a bedroom you can lock before moving on to the living room, kitchen, and beyond.
Before your pet arrives, inspect the home for potential hazards such as loose wires, toxic plants, or escape routes. Check that doors and windows are secure before you let your pet begin to roam freely.
Manage Your Move With Advantage Storage
Moving with pets doesn’t have to feel like running a zoo. By renting a storage unit from Advantage Storage, you can efficiently manage your move without worrying about keeping your pets waiting as you carry boxes inside. Our storage facilities offer personal storage units with features like climate control, where you can stow away furniture, clothes, and more as you transition into your new home.
Are you ready to get started? Find an Advantage Storage facility near you today! You can also browse our storage tips page and first-time guide to self storage for more information.