Moving is a stressful time for everyone involved. All the planning, sorting, and packing is exhausting. Imagine if you are a pet watching everything happen. They’re probably even more nervous as they watch their entire world being torn apart and put into boxes.
Now, add in the anxiety they may feel if you are about to undertake a cross-country move. Here are a few moving tips to make the experience a little more bearable for your furry friends.
1. Vet Visit
You’ll want to take them for a visit to the vet to make sure that they are in good health. Your veterinarian will be able to give you some good tips based on your animal’s specific breed and temperament to help keep them comfortable.
2. Prepare everything they will need
Your pets comfort during the trip will directly impact your comfort. While it’s a good idea to put some animals in crates, it’s not always a necessity. Wherever they ride, make sure they have plenty of their favorite toys and blankets to keep them comfortable and occupied.
A new bone for a dog or a new squeaky toy for your cat might be a good idea.
3. ID Tags
Just in case you and your pet are separated, make sure they are either microchipped or have tags. It’s actually a good idea to always have a tag on your pet with your contact info regardless of what other means of identification you use.
Especially if you are traveling, you’ll want someone to be able to contact you quickly if they find your animal.
4. Driving Breaks
Plan for frequent stops to give your pets a chance to use the bathroom, eat, and exercise. You should stop at least as often as you let them outside at home, maybe even a little more often since they may be a little nervous about the whole experience.
When you take a break, give them plenty of time to exercise and relax before getting them back into the vehicle. And, make sure to give them plenty of affection.
5. Find pet-friendly hotels.
It’s probably a good idea to plan the entire trip before leaving, including which hotels you will be staying at. It’s easy enough to find hotels that are pet-friendly. Once you are in the hotel room, you’ll want to make a special spot for your pet to make them feel at home.
Even something as simple as their favorite blanket or pillow can help them to relax. They will be tense from riding in the car for so long. As long as they’re with you, they will be happy. Their own spot just puts them a little more at ease.
6. At Their New Home
Once you arrive at your new home, try to find a room in the house that can be closed off for them to be safe in while the movers get everything inside. A new neighborhood is not where you want them to get out and possibly get lost. Once everything is inside, you can show them their new home and neighborhood.
As with most things in life, planning is the key to making this transition easier for your pets. As long as they know that you are taking care of them, they will be fine.