Moving With Pets? | 6 Tips
Moving to a new home can be a stressful experience — the packing, the heavy lifting, the cleaning…but most of us don’t stop to think about how a move might affect our pet.
What might be stressful to a human may actually be terrifying to an animal who doesn’t understand what’s going on or why.
Below you’ll find a list of helpful tips to make your move easier on both you, and your pet.
1. Contact Your Vet
If you’ll be using a new vet in the location you are moving to, be sure to get all your records and update your vaccinations before you leave.
2. Update Their Tags & Microchip Information
Check your pet’s tags to make sure they are still adequate. If you list your address on the tag, you’ll have to update it. Also, if they are microchipped, be sure to update that information as well.
3. Keep Them Away From The Move
Pets can get in the way on moving day. Either put them in a designated room or bring them to a friend/family member’s home on move day.
4. Spoil Them
It’s likely your pets will feel a change coming during the weeks leading up to your move. During this time they may get nervous or have a bit of anxiety. Don’t be shy about giving them plenty of treats, walks, and praise to keep everything positive.
5. Research Online Or Call A Local Pet Store
If you have pets like fish, reptiles, rodents, birds etc. Get some information from credible sources on how to move each specific type of pet before moving them. Each type of pet will need certain requirements for moving.
6. Introduce Your Pets Slowly To Your New Home
The last thing you want to do is let your pet loose in your backyard like you’re used to, especially if you have cats. Give your animals a few weeks of monitored outside time to give them a chance to get used to their surroundings.
Get even more information on moving with your pets on this ASPCA article.
Check out some of our other great tips!