Moving With Pets

Helpful Tips on Moving with Pets
Moving to a new home is a huge adjustment for a family. There’s a lot of things that can cause stress during a move, this stress can also be felt by a family’s pet. Whether you’re moving across town or across the country, your pets may face the move with anxiety and stress. We’ve taken some time to give you some tips to make moving day easy when moving with pets and as stress-free as possible for both humans and furry family members alike.
1. It sometimes takes a bit of time to unpack. Pack a kit of basic supplies for your pet to get them through the first couple of days. Include some food, grooming items, kitty litter and of course some of your pet’s favourite toys.
2. When moving with pets its important you have your pet’s vet records are an important part of their healthcare plan. Speak with your vet before the move and get copies of your pet’s medical records. This will make your new vet’s job much easier and can save you some time, money and stress.
3. There’s a lot of activity on moving day, it’s probably best to keep your pet away. Ideally, you can send your pet to a friend’s house or a kennel while you’re packing. If not, try to keep your pet in a quiet area of the house, away from all of the action. Keep an eye on them throughout the day and keep them comfortable.
4. When it’s time to arrive at the new house bring your pet in your own vehicle. Bringing your pet yourself will help ease their anxiety about the move.
5. Be extra careful that your pet does not leave the new house. There can be a lot of things going through your pet’s head, it’s important that your new home remains secure to prevent your pet from getting lost outside. With completely new surroundings it’s scary to think of your pet trying to make their way back to you. Ideally, keep your pet in a kennel when transporting them and do not release the pet until you are in your new home. Remember, never store your pet in your trunk or in an open truck bed.
6. It may be best to head to your new home early and start setting things up before your pet arrives. This will allow them to adjust with items familiar to them such as blankets, pet beds or toys.
7. If your pet has identification tags or microchips you’ll want to have your address information updated.
8. For long distance moves plan ahead by searching for pet friendly hotels along your route. There’s some great websites that can help with this search.
9. Fish can be hard to move due to the fact that they do not handle transportation well. If moving a short distance you can transport them in bags filled with their own tank water. You may want to think about finding your fish a new home if your moving a long distance.
10. Guinea Pigs also can suffer from health issues related to stress and jostling around. They’re known for having potential heart problems if placed in uncomfortable situations. Keep them warm and secure in a carrier when transporting them. Be sure to check in on them often.
11. If your pet is known to experience motion sickness talk to your vet ahead of time and get them proper medication. It will be a long car ride for both you and your pet if you don’t plan ahead for car sickness.
A move is big step for you and your family. Make the process a smooth one for your pet by planning ahead. Keeping things organized and calm, this will ensure your pet is comfortable, less stressed and safe.