Moving could be both an exciting and stressful time for you and your pet. Therefore, it is essential to begin preparing your companion for the move immediately. Even short distance relocations can throw off your pet’s routine and sense of security, and bigger relocations can be quite stressful for your furry family member. Here are some tips to help your pet get ready for the big event and make your move as painless as possible for them.
Prepare Ahead of Time
It’s best to start preparing for a move with a pet as soon as possible if you need to do so soon. To ensure a seamless relocation, plan and address a few essential concerns beforehand. Make sure, for instance, that the licensing, tags, or microchip information for your pet is current. Schedule a visit with the doctor to make sure your pet is in good health and that you have all the prescription medications they need. However, if your pet dislikes the veterinarian’s office, try to avoid scheduling appointments too close to the move, as this may exacerbate the pet’s anxiety.
Stick to Routines
Animals are routine-dependent creatures of habit. This is why the chaos of moving, particularly in the weeks leading up to and following the move, may be very distressing for them. Maintain as much of your normal routine as possible as you begin packing for your move. This is especially important for dogs because they could become anxious or start acting destructively if neglected. As much as you can, keep the eating schedule at the same time each day, taking daily walks at the same time, and scheduling playtime.
Introduce the Crate Early On
If your companion needs to spend time in a kennel or cage as part of your move, this could be an extremely difficult time for them, especially if they are not yet accustomed to a crate. Introduce the crate and let your pet make pleasant associations with it weeks before the transition. This is one of the best ways to get them ready for the change. Encourage them to investigate it and around it, for instance, and then offer them treats as a reward. This will prevent your companion from experiencing excessive anxiety on the big day.
Bring Comfort Items
Pets are attracted to the noises and smells of home. To keep your pet calm when moving, you can pack up some sensory items and keep it with them. Keep your pet’s favorite blanket or pet bed with them, for instance, during a transfer. A pet’s favored toy or even a piece of your clothing can also provide comfort. Additionally, keep your pet’s food, treats, and water with you before, during, and after the transfer.
Provide a Safe Space
As the big day draws near, you might want to think about allocating a particular space for your pet. The best place for pets to be placed during a move is in a quiet room or fenced-in area because they frequently become anxious and some may even run away if given the chance. To spare your pet the stress and turmoil of the transfer, think about asking a dependable friend or family member to care for them while you are away. In addition to reducing your pet’s anxiety during a transfer, providing a safe space will keep them out of harm’s way.
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