Like children, moving long-distance with pets can pose many challenges. However, considering their needs and easing them into the transition will undoubtedly ease both you and your animals’ journey. These tips will help you establish greater comfort for pets during long haul moves.
Tip #1: Keep the Regular Routine Going Before the Move
Pets are susceptible and can feel the stress that their owners feel. In essence, they are a bit disquieted with changes and can sense yours too. Make efforts to maintain routine activities with your pet as much as possible. This will keep them calm and provide them with stability before the big day.
Tip #2: Pack Slowly and as Early as Possible
Because of your pet’s acute awareness of their surroundings, make every attempt to keep your moving-related actions discreet. The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) recommends getting boxes in a few days before packing, so your fur baby becomes familiar with them and potentially experience less panic. Discretion is on your side when packing!
Tip #3: Separate Your Pet From Packing Zones
As mentioned, pets can get a bit frazzled when they see ‘suspicious’ activities like your possessions going into boxes and their prized toy stash diminishing. When packing up your home, try to let your pet stay calm and cozy in a separate room or outdoors to divide them from what they might perceive as chaotic.
Tip #4: Secure Veterinary Documents and a New Provider
Take your pet in for a visit with your vet and ensure they are in good health, along with getting copies of your records. This is an excellent time to ask questions about reducing stress for animals, which is especially essential during a long-distance move. Extra-sensitive or nervous pets might benefit from a mild sedative as you travel to your new home. If you haven’t secured a new veterinarian before the transition, ask your current vet for a recommendation. Or do a bit of online research.
Update your pet’s tags and computer microchip as well.
Tip #5: Begin Crate Training ASAP
Because crating is the safest way to move any pet, you need to get them prepped for the experience. Long-distance moves are incredibly stressful on animals, and unless they are adjusted to being in crates, commonly, a period of adjustment time will be much appreciated and alleviate anxiety on their end. For the uninitiated pet, allow them to gradually adjust to the new crate for 15 to 30 minutes each day in the weeks before the move.
Tip #6: Hire a Pet Sitter on the Day of the Move
Pets tend to get anxious when traveling and put into a crate for a long-distance ride, so easing their worries by having a friend or pet sitter hold on to them while packing up the moving vehicle can help. In addition to keeping them away from the chaos of the big day, having pets off-site reduces the chances of a skittery animal running out the door while loading up.
Tip #7: Resume Normal Routines ASAP
Prioritize easing your pet into their normal daily activities as soon as you can after moving. Be sure to take pups on a tour of the new area during walks. Allow kitties to peep out windows to familiarize them with the sounds and sights of their new home.
Move With Ease
If you are looking to ease your long-distance move and want more room for your furry friends in your personal transportation, call us today for experienced moving services.