Moving is one of the most stressful situations a person can get into. For pets this event is no less traumatic. Planning the move based on your pet’s needs will help you make transportation as comfortable as possible and not go crazy during the preparation for the day.
Preparing for the moving process
Make a moving plan and stick to it. Having a plan will allow you to take the best care of your pets during this stressful time for everyone.
Make sure your new place of residence is pet-friendly. This must be done in advance, even before you decide to move. If you have a dog, look for places with a courtyard or a nearby park while choosing a new home.
What steps should you take before moving?
- Decide where your pet will stay on the day of your departure. Scattered boxes, rummaged things in closets and general stress in the family make not only people, but also animals nervous. They can escape through an open door when someone walks in or out. Even the most well-mannered pet can leave the house due to stress.
- If you plan to take your pet with you, make sure that the room where it will stay temporarily is closed during packaging. Warn movers, family, and children not to come to the door of this room and open it. Lock your pet while the doors and windows are open for moving.
- Make a list of things you will need on the road and make sure they are on hand and not packed in your luggage. If the item you need is not in your list, buy it now, without waiting for the day of departure. Instead of throwing away the tattered bedding and pillows, you can leave a couple to carry your pet.
What Will You Need?
- Is your carrier suitable for a car? You may need to re-evaluate its size and, if necessary, buy a new one.
- Place a small suitcase or bag in the car that is designed for the animals traveling with you.
How to act on moving day?
- Try to make sure that the day you move is the same as any other day in your life. Let your daily routine work today. The established order is very important, especially when everything is changing around. Feed and walk with your pet at the same time as you did yesterday or the day before.
- Go to your new home before letting your pet into it. If you have nowhere to leave your pet or are traveling alone, initially keep it in a carry bag. Inspect your new home for anything that might harm your four-legged friend. This can be, for example, fresh paint, sawdust, broken glass or bare wires.
- When you are confident that the house is safe, release your pet from the cage or remove the leash from it. Make sure all doors and windows are closed at the moment. Let your pet get used to his new home.
- Place items familiar to the animal, such as the bed and toys. Do not forget to play with your pet.
- Walk carefully around the yard and make sure it is safe for your dog or cat.
It is always best to find professional movers specialized in transporting animals. They will always help you to plan and organize a trip without unnecessary stress for your pet.
