People stress about moving. So do people’s pets. Dogs and cats are especially prone to pressure caused by unexpected activities, such as moving trucks in the driveway and a new pile of boxes in the hall. Unfortunately, there is no one solution that will ensure a smooth transition for all animals. Nevertheless, these tips are good starting point to help dim your dog’s dread or contain your cat’s contempt.
- Keep a stash of your dog or cat’s immediate needs handy
Pack an overnight bag with enough food and treats that last until Bo’s bed and bowls have been unpacked. The last thing your dog needs is for you to forget to feed him!
- Get your pet’s records from your veterinarian
Unless you’re moving close enough that you’ll keep the same medical providers, call your veterinary office at least a week in advance to request a copy of your animal’s records. Specifically ask for information pertaining to core vaccinations, such as distemper, parvovirus, adenovirus, and rabies. If your dog has had any of the non-core vaccinations recommended by the Pet Health Network, ask for those records, too. Dogs that will be boarded at any point during the move may be required to receive a Bordetella shot so it’s a good idea to have that taken care of before the move.
- Keep your furry friend out of sight when movers are on-site
The safest place for your dog when there is a flurry of activity is with a friend or pet sitter. If that’s not possible, keep them out of harm’s way by moving into an empty room, fenced yard, or to their kennel in a quiet area of the garage. Being sequestered may not be the most comfortable situation for Spot but it’s the lesser of two evils where moving is concerned. An unattended dog or cat may slip out an open door or snap at the movers, which is a potential lawsuit, according to AllLaw (part of the NOLO network).
- Drive your pet to the new house yourself
Your dog or cat will be most comfortable en route to his new house with you by his side. Provide a carrier or secure a kennel in the back seat to ensure his safety in case of an accident along the way. Upon arrival, keep your pet safely tucked away until they are inside of the new home. Even pets that are usually well-behaved and calm may be dealing with pent up energy and an overwhelming urge to explore. It’s very easy for a curious cat or dog to bolt out of bounds and get lost.
- Ensure your pet’s information is up-to-date
Sam Landa of You Move Me, a nationwide moving company, recommends having your pet’s microchip and tag information updated to reflect their current living situation. This can save you tons of heartache in case you and your pet are separated (see above). And no, like many major moving companies, they don’t move pets.
- Plan a “happy place”
You’ve bought your new home and made it safely through the doors. Now what? Help your animals acclimate by having their favorite things at the ready. As soon as possible, determine where your pet’s bed, crate, and toys will go so he or she will have their own domain to claim, which will go a long way toward easing the transition. Read on here for tips on how to help your pet fair well during the move and settle into your new home.
Thankfully dogs and cats, which happen to be two of the top three the most popular pets in the US, tend to adjust fairly soon after a move. (The same cannot be said for small mammals, birds, and fish.) Keep your pet –and yourself – calm. Keep in mind that he has many of the same emotions you do and will pick up on your aggravation and irritation. You don’t want your bad mood to turn moving into your dream home into a nightmare.
Article provided by Medina at dogetiquette.info
