Moving with Pets?

Moving is never a pleasant activity, and moving with a pet may be more trouble than you’ve bargained for. However, it’s often a necessary evil. When it does happen, there’s not much you can do but to forge ahead and simplify the process where possible — if not for you, then for your pooch. Thankfully, making the transition easier on your dog gives you one less challenge to deal with. Consider the following steps:

our dog might not really grasp what’s going on, but there’s no doubt that they can pick up that something’s amiss as you get ready to move. Dogs are known to mirror the stress of their humans, so you can be sure that your moving anxiety will rub off on them. Moreover, as you pack up your home in boxes, they start to lose much of the familiar, which will only increase the tension. This could then lead to behavioral and even health problems, adding to your stress.
It’s a vicious cycle, yes. The key is to maintain normalcy — at least, as far as your pet is concerned. It’s very important to keep the same routines, such as meal times and walkies. And though you’re busy with packing, decluttering, cleaning, etc., don’t ignore them. It’s little things like these that go a long way in keeping the move relatively stress-free for your dog.

On a related note, it will serve you well to keep your dog comfortable in the course of the move. On the big day, you can expect people going in and out of the house and loading possessions in vehicles. Your pet will likely be overstimulated by all that activity and may act up. This can be quite unsafe for humans and animals alike, making it a must to keep your dog calm and safe at this crucial time.

Perhaps the smartest move you can make on moving day is removing your dog from the equation. Hiring a pet sitter can be the best way to keep your dog comfortable and safely away from the excitement. Do choose a sitter with care by considering the services they offer and the kinds and sizes of pets they can care for, as well as the cost.

You can also arrange for a trusted friend, neighbor, or family member to care for your dog until the move is said and done. A boarding facility can be a good alternative, too. However, do make it easier for both your pet and sitter by packing their creature comforts like toys, dog beds, blankets, etc. This way, your dog will be as comfortable as possible during this short separation from you.

As you settle into your new home, know that you still need to help your pet get accustomed to the new environment. Again, stick to old routines and schedules to minimize accidents. Keeping your dog active as you explore your new neighborhood will also help in easing anxiety. Moreover, keep your pet’s old things, instead of buying new ones, and place them in areas that are as similar as possible to your old setup.

Finally, don’t forget to reward your dog for being such a good sport throughout the whole process. As a rule, only choose healthy dog treats made from quality ingredients. Check out what other pet owners are saying to get a better feel of certain products.

Last but not least, invest in a good flea collar to help ensure that your dog doesn’t bring any pests into your new home. Not all flea collars are created equal, so remember to do your homework before you invest in a collar.

In the end, you can take comfort in knowing that moving is but a temporary setback in your life as a pet parent. Before long, it will be nothing more than a distant memory as you and your pet settle into your wonderful new home.

Want to make sure your move goes off without a hitch? Contact The Movers today to discuss prices and our different service options.