Moving is a stressful event for humans, and even more so for pets. While you can logically explain a move to a human, even a young child, pets simply do not understand why they are no longer in their homes.
Because pets can be distressed by moving to a new home, it is important that you take special care of your dog or cat. There are simple things that you can do that will help your pet adjust quickly. These tips and tricks to getting your move right so your entire family - even the fur babies - enjoy living in the new digs.
When it is time to move your pet into the new space, it is important that you, personally, drive your cat or dog there. Your pet might become anxious if a stranger drives your pet. It is important to give your pet a few surprises as possible, simply because the new space will be surprising enough.
If you normally do not take your pet for car rides, the best time to start is now. Get your pet used to going places in the car to reduce stress by going to places that are not the vet's office.
Pets become comfortable in their crates. So, when you move your pet into the new home - if your pet is small enough - keep your pet in the crate as you enter the home and until you have closed the door. If your pet, especially cats, feels danger, it might run outside if given the chance as it looks for its old home. But, in the safety of the crate, your pet will have some security.
If you have a large dog that is difficult to carry, walk your dog through the door of the new home, then put it in its crate. Let the dog rest in its comfortable place, especially if you are still moving things into the home with your pet there.
Cat owners often keep their cats inside for a significant amount of time when they move into a new home. Cats have been known to return to their original homes, even if they are hundreds or thousands of miles away. If you haven't used a crate in a while, get a new one and check out this handy dog crates sizing chart, which also works for cats, too.
Speaking of security, your pet should be one of the last things you move out of your old home. It can be helpful to have everything in place at the new home so your dog or cat can learn about the new space. If you bring your pet to your new home while you are still moving, your pet could run away as people are walking in and out moving items.
When you are ready to move your dog or cat, be sure to have everything that your pet needs for a few days. This includes food and bowls, favorite toys, your cat's preferred kitty litter and a box, your pet's crate, and medication. These items will help your pet recognize that things are going to be ok because it is taken care of by you. Check out these suggestions for an overnight bag for your dog.
If you take your dog for a walk at the same time every day, it is helpful to maintain this habit while you are moving. Feed your pet at the same time. Put your pet in its crate at the same time. This will keep your dog or cat relaxed and comfortable.
It might seem strange, but giving your pet a tour of your new home is important. Show your cat where the litter box is, where the scratching post is, and where the crate will be. Show your dog around the house, but keep it on a leash for comfort and safety. Show your dog where the door is, so it knows where to ask when it has to relieve itself.
One of the best things you can do for your pet, after a tour, is to show your pet where its special place is. This is the spot where you will keep your pet's crate and its water and food. It can be helpful to keep this home base close to where you will be spending the most of your tie - like the kitchen or family room. Depending on your pet's temperament, it might not wander far from this new home base.
If you have a cat, it might spend most its time under your bed or under the couch, hiding until it feels comfortable. If that is where your cat chooses to spend its time, then feel free to put its water, food, and litter near that comfort spot.
Just like you baby-proof a new home, you have to pet-proof it, too. Get down on all fours and take a look around the house. Is there anything that your dog could choke on? Look for pest-control traps and poisons. Look for houseplants that may have been left behind. If the previous owner of the home had a dog or cat, there might be smells that bother your pet. It might be worthwhile to have your carpets cleaned before you pet moves in.
Your vet knows your pet and can offer good advice especially for your dog or cat. If your pet has anxiety, your vet can prescribe medication that will help your pet adjust with some ease. If you are moving to a new city or state, your vet can also recommend a new vet, which can make the transition easier for you, too.