How to Move With Pets with the Least Stress Possible
You think you get stressed during the process of moving. What about your pets? Maybe the turtle and gerbil will take it lying down, but how about your dog or your cat? Their favorite chair suddenly isn't where it's always been. They can't find their water bowls. Their people are acting strange – hurried and preoccupied. What's happened to the morning walk? Where's the comfortable after-dinner nap? What's going on???
You can’t explain to animals what moving is all about, but with some basic planning, you can make their move relatively painless:
- Leave their favorite chairs, water bowls, etc., in place as long as possible and (as with your kids) maintain normal routines as much as you can.
- Be sure to get their records of shot and medications from the vet. Health and rabies-shot certificates will make them welcome wherever in the U.S. you take them.
- On moving day, take time out to reassure them in the midst of the chaos. They may fare best if they’re off the scene in some quiet spot.
- Provide them with leashes and new ID tags in case they get loose en route or at your new residence.
- If you're driving, let your pet travel in a roomy carrier. Bring food and water. Make frequent roadside stops to allow time for exercise (which you can enjoy too.)
- As you move into your new home, keep your pet in a quiet place.
Animals usually adjust quickly to new surroundings – especially when their families realize that pets feel the stress of moving, too. Our experience in helping families move can work for you in making your relocation as trouble-free as possible. We're eager to get you started on the right foot, so e-mail us or give us a call today.
