How to Move with Pets

A move can be an exciting time for your family — but not so much for your pets. Pets are sensitive to change and stressful situations, leaving them fearful. To keep you and your pets’ stress levels at bay, here are a few tips to get them ready for a move.

Test Ride

Stated by movers in Frisco, whether you’re traveling by car, train, or plane, take your pets with you a few times (if possible) in whatever vehicle you’ll use to travel.

The majority of moves are completed via car, so getting your pet used to riding in the car is pretty easy.

Working them up to riding in a car on a regular, non-stressful moving day will help them stay calmer during the hustle and bustle of moving day.

Each pet has different preferences when traveling. Some dogs enjoy riding in their cage, while some cats prefer to sit in the backseat under a blanket. When moving with your dogs or cats you can desensitize them by leaving their crates around the house and open for them to use at will. Throw in their favorite blanket to create a familiar safe space for them to get accustomed to. Make sure to offer your pet multiple methods to see which they like best.

Finding out how your pet prefers to travel will help lessen the chaos on moving day; plus, your pet will know they are coming along if they’ve been with you on joy rides before.

Of course, it isn’t possible to simulate the route you’re taking if you will be moving internationally. By using a service like Airpets International to transport your pet to the new location you have one less thing to worry about during your move. However, by crate training your pet, you can ensure they are comfortable and secure during the journey, regardless of the mode of transportation.

You can also try giving them their favorite toy, blanket, or bed to help them feel more comfortable.

Check-Up With a Vet

Before your move, pay a visit to the vet.

Seeing your vet before a move ensures that your pet is healthy enough to move.

Visiting the vet is also an easy way to get the most updated records for your pet. You’ll want these records when you find a new veterinarian in your neighborhood to make sure you continue on the same vaccine schedule and give your new vet a full view of your pet’s health history.

You can also opt to get your pet chipped to avoid losing them in an unknown city.

Prepare a Bag for the Road

On moving day, make sure to pack a bag filled with all necessities for your pet.

Depending on the length of your drive, a pet’s travel bag should include:

* Servings of food and water as well as bowls so they can stay hydrated and full along the way
* Towel for any potential accidents
* Blanket and treats to keep them calm
* Your pet’s favorite toy to keep them occupied

A leash and dog baggies should be packed for pups who will need to use a restroom along the way.

Adding these items to your travels will ensure your pet is comfortable during the ride.

Keep Your Pet Away From Chaos

Most pets are stressed on moving day. They’ll feel your stress levels, see boxes being carried away, and see strangers coming into your home to help move.

To lessen their fear, keep them in an isolated location during the moving process. It’s best to keep them in their cage or an empty closet or room. Again, this depends on your pet’s preferences. Cats may already have a hiding spot they love, while dogs enjoy being in their cage where they can see all the action and make sure you don’t leave them behind.

If you choose to keep your pet in another room away from the chaos, make sure to check on them regularly so they don’t worry.

Let Your Pet Get To Know Your New Home

Once you arrive at your new home, let your pet roam freely to explore the house.

Usually, when you get to your final destination, the pets will start to feel at ease after exploring and realizing they’re staying awhile.

They will feel a lot more comfortable once they get to check out the scene for themselves and get familiar with the scent.

If you have a dog, allow them to explore the backyard and take them for a walk around the block to get used to the neighborhood.

Reptiles, Amphibians, Fish, and Rodents

When moving smaller pets that live in cages or tanks, it’s best to place these pets in a seat, securely on the floor, or in someone’s lap to keep a close eye on them.

For fish, place them in bags of water that is the same temperature as their aquarium for traveling.

For other small animals in cages and tanks, place a cover over their habitats to keep them from getting stressed.

Have a Stress-Free Move With Your Pet

We all love our furry, feathery, scaly friends, and it’s important to protect them and keep them at ease during the chaos of moving.

The less stress your pet has, the less you will have.

By following the steps above, you and your pet are sure to have an exciting, stress-free move.