Moving homes is stressful enough for us humans with all the preparation, packing, and a general sense of uncertainty. Now image how perplexing it must be for our dogs who are unable to comprehend why all these changes are taking place!
Making the transition for your pet as easy as possible will assist to reduce stress for both of you. Here are some useful pointers you may use as you prepare to move into your new house with your pet and while you do so.
Making sure your moving house with pets to travelling in a pet carrier is the first step in preparing them for a transfer. You must transport your cat in a carrier, regardless of how close or far you are going.
It’s ideal to ease your cat into the notion of riding in a carrier if this has never happened. Start by placing a blanket and some cat treats inside the carrier so they develop a favourable association with it. They can explore the carrier at their own leisure if you leave the door open.
The next step is getting your cat used to riding in a car after they are comfortable using their carrier. Start with brief (10 min) rides, followed by longer (20 min) rides.
Before you move
Select a room in advance that may be cleaned out and given to your pet on the day of the move. Dogs should be close to an enclosed outdoor space so that you may take them out for frequent bathroom breaks.
Empty the room thoroughly before cleaning it, and relocate all of the packed boxes to another part of the house. Then put your pet’s beds, toys, water and food bowls, and any litter trays in that area. Allow your pet to become accustomed to the space in advance to reduce any anxiety they may have on moving day. The removal service won’t need to disturb your pet during the day because this room will already be vacant.
Consider alternative arrangements
It may be a good idea to arrange for a dependable family member or friend to watch over your pet while the relocation is taking place if your pet is terrified of loud sounds, strangers, or finds it difficult to adjust to change. In this way, your pet won’t be stressed out by all the noise in their previous home because they’ll be with a familiar face.
Consider hiring a pet sitter for the day or reserving a kennel or cattery if family or friends are not an option. Give yourself ample time to find a pet sitter, cattery, or kennel that you like and trust, investigate them, and schedule a visit.
Be equipped to travel by car
Make sure you have everything you need for safe car travel if you intend to move your pet that same day. Your pet must be securely confined in the vehicle to comply with The Highway Code, so you must use a dog seatbelt or a safe, veterinarian-approved pet carrier to carry your four-legged buddy. You’ll also need a foldable travel bowl, their food, and lots of cool water for those crucial rest stops if you’re going over long miles or on a hot summer day.
Walk around your new neighbourhood together
Try taking your dog for a few walks around the new neighbourhood in the days leading up to the move if you’re moving somewhere that isn’t too distant from your current residence (i.e., within a short driving distance). This will make it easier for them to adjust to new situations in the future by allowing your beloved dog to become accustomed to a new environment.
