Thinking about moving with your furry friends? Your pets are part of your family, and it's important to consider their needs as you get ready to embark on a new adventure. Our eBook has 450 ways to help you navigate a move with pets...and it's totally free!
Here's a sneak peek of a few of our favorite tips—be sure to request your copy of our eBook to read even more!
Before You Move
Believe it or not, it is possible to prep your pet for your upcoming move. Here's how to do it.
Visit the Vet
If it's been a while since your last vet visit, schedule an appointment at least 30 days ahead of time. You'll want to make sure Fluffy and Fido are up-to-date on their vaccinations and are cleared to travel long distances (if necessary). If your pet tends to get anxious, consider asking your vet about sedatives for moving day.
Keep Things Normal
Even a little bit of change can stress your pet out, so it's important to make this transition as smooth as possible. Leave their beds, litter boxes, and food bowls in the same place until moving day. Be sure to give them plenty of attention and stick to normal feeding and play times, too!
Prep Them for Travel
No matter where you're moving, your pet will probably have to travel by car or plane to get to your new place. Be sure they have all the proper identification in case they get loose, and get them acquainted with their carrier as soon as possible. If you have to book a flight for your pet, make sure they're ready to spend time in a carry-on bag or the cargo hold.
What to Have Before You Move:
- ID tags: Ensure that your pet's collar has up-to-date information, including your phone number and new address.
- Health certificates: Once your pet receives a clean bill of health from their vet, keep all recent paperwork on hand. This is especially important if you're traveling by plane!
- Vaccination records: Vaccination records are almost always required by airlines, and you might even need them if you're crossing state lines. Keep these important documents with you at all times!
- Medications: Some pets require important medications to keep them healthy. Make sure they don't get packed and keep them on hand during the move.
- Plenty of food and toys: If you're traveling by car, it's best to surround your pet with familiar objects to keep them at ease. Have enough food and toys to keep them occupied for the duration of the trip.
On Moving Day
Moving day can be stressful for pets, but there are a few steps you can take to make sure everything goes smoothly.
Never Leave Your Pet Alone
Your pet will probably be nervous on moving day, and that means there's a higher chance of them running away. Make sure they're leashed or in their carrier at all times, and never leave them unattended.
Pet-Proof Your New Home
Before you let your pet loose in your new space, check for anything that might be poisonous or become a choking hazard. Don't forget to double check outdoor fences and gates, too. You never know what the last homeowner left behind!
Stick to a Routine
Even on moving day, it's important to stick to your pet's routine as much as possible. That means giving them attention, feeding them, and giving them a walk as you normally would. If you don't think you'll have time to attend to your furry friend, consider leaving them with a loved one until the end of the day.
After You Move
Don't forget to keep an eye on your pet after you move! Here are a few ways you can help them adjust to your new place.
Meet Your New Vet
If you're making a long distance move, you'll want to get acquainted with a new vet as soon as possible—don't just wait until there's an emergency! This is also a good time to address any issues related to the move, such as anxiety or aggression.
Go for a Walk
Dogs love to explore, but it might take them a while to get adjusted to your new community. Take regular walks so they can learn what's around, mark their territory, and meet other dogs and neighbors.
Have Multiple Litter Boxes
If you have a cat, they might be tempted to mark their new territory. In order to prevent accidents, leave multiple litter boxes all around your home until they adjust.
Ready to Make a Move?
If you're getting ready to move with Fluffy and Fido in tow, our eBook can help you navigate the process from start to finish. Have questions? Don't worry—the CindyD Team has the answers you're looking for. We're always just a call, email, or text away!