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Moving to a home can be both exciting and stressful for us humans. However, it's important to remember that our beloved pets, like cats and dogs, can also experience anxiety during this transition. To make the move as smooth as possible for both you and your furry friend, here are some tips to keep them calm throughout the moving process.
Preparing Your Pet for the Move
Pets thrive on routine, so it's crucial to introduce gradual changes to their environment leading up to the move. If you are at a stage where you compare removalists for the move, start by bringing home moving boxes a week in advance. Allow your pet to explore and get familiar with these objects. It's important not to rush this process since sudden changes can increase anxiety in pets.
Creating a Calm Space
Amidst all the chaos of packing, designate an area where your pet can feel secure and away from all the commotion. This could be a bedroom or any secluded spot away from boxes being moved around. Make sure your pet has their bed or blanket along with their toys and food bowl.
Maintaining Their Routine
Sticking as closely as possible to your pet’s routine before the move can help keep them calm despite all the changes happening around them.
Establishing a routine of feeding, walks, playtime, and bedtime rituals will provide a sense of stability and comfort for your pets during this time.
Consult Your Veterinarian
Before you embark on a long-distance move or cross state lines with your furry companions, it's important to consult your veterinarian. They can offer guidance on keeping your pets calm during travel, suggest any vaccinations or sedatives if needed and ensure that your contact information is up to date in case of emergencies.
Update Their Identification Tags
Make sure to update your pet’s identification tags with contact information before the moving day arrives. Accidents can happen to anyone. But, having updated tags significantly increases the chances of being reunited with your pet if they happen to get lost during the process.
Acclimate Your Pet to Their Carrier
If you're travelling by car, introduce your pet to their carrier in advance. Gradually make it a safe and comfortable space where they can rest or seek refuge. Using treats and positive reinforcement will help create an association of comfort for them. Over time, increase the duration they spend inside the carrier to prepare them for journeys.
Create Familiarity in Their New Environment
To create a sense of familiarity in their surroundings, make sure to set up their designated area in your new home. Whether it's a room or a cozy corner, arrange their food bowls and familiar toys before bringing them inside. Introducing such scents will provide them with reassurance amidst the new environment.
Slowly Introduce Them to Each Room
Take things slowly when introducing your pet to rooms in the home. They may initially feel overwhelmed by the changes. Gradually introduce them to one room at a time while offering plenty of reinforcement and attention along the way.
Stay Patient and Reassuring
During this adjustment period, be patient and reassuring with your pet. They may exhibit behaviours like hiding or avoiding areas initially. Instead of forcing them, give them space and time to explore at their own pace. Reward any positive behaviours with treats, as this will reinforce feelings of security and create positive associations with their new surroundings.
Establishing a New Schedule
When you move to a new home, it's important to stick as closely as possible to your pet’s regular routine. This means keeping their feeding times, walks, playtime and bedtime consistent. By doing so, you'll help them feel more at ease and bring back a sense of familiarity and stability in their environment.
Conclusion
Moving to a new home can be overwhelming for our furry companions since they thrive on familiarity and routine. By following these tips and techniques, you can ensure that your beloved pets stay calm and minimise their stress during the moving process.
From introducing changes in their surroundings to creating a designated space, maintaining their daily routine and seeking advice from your veterinarian – taking these steps will prepare you for the upcoming transition. It's also essential to update their identification tags, get them accustomed to their carrier and make all arrangements before the moving day itself.
