Relocating is never easy. Finding a new home and moving everything safely can be stressful. The situation gets more complicated when you have a furry, four-legged companion who feels more unsettled than anyone else in the family.
They feel lost sitting among packed boxes and feel tense. You can help ease this process for them with meticulous planning and some foresight. While moving, check any procedural requirements that need to be fulfilled. Find out if there are any special laws related to pets in the state or region you are moving to.
If you decide to fly your pet to this new location, you may need to present some documentation at the airline counter. Plan every aspect of your relocation, so it becomes less stressful for your pet. The moving company would be able to help with details for these processes.
1. Consult Your Pet’s Vet
As soon as you decide to move, seek an appointment with the veterinarian. They can check and confirm whether your pet is healthy, and the vaccination record is up-to-date. Get a copy of it and also ask them to recommend a vet in the new place. Get your pet microchipped, and if he already has one, update all contact information. It is mandatory to update the dog's collar tag with the new contact number.
2. Moving Day Precautions
Moving day involves a lot of activities like packing and many movers walking in and out of the house packing and carting things. In this chaotic situation, your loved pet may wander anywhere, even out of the house on the street without you knowing it.
That is the last thing you would want to deal with, so figure out a way to keep them safe and contented. Restrict your cat or dog to a carrier or crate. Alternatively, keep them at a friend's house or a pet daycare. The idea is to ensure they’re safe and happy while the packers and movers are doing their job.
3. New Location Research Helps
Just as you will look for new schools for your children, find out what amenities are available for pets at the new location. It’s essential to know pet policies, registration, and special collar tags requirements which exist there. An online search can show which public areas or dog parks pets are allowed with or without a leash.
4. Packing a Pet Bag
While packing things, do not forget to pack a bag for your pet. Keep some food and bowls, medicines, bed, extra kitty litter, toys for easy availability. It will be useful when you reach the new home too.
5. A Slow Tour of Rooms
On arriving at the new home, take your pet around, and linger in each room. It is better to introduce them to the new environment slowly to help them adjust. Start with the main room and once they are comfortable, move into other areas. Your pet may take to the new place in no time and find their favorite spot.
Pets are unlikely to understand your exhaustion at the end of moving day and will need extra care and love in this new environment. They will look for their favorite old haunts in the new place and feel confused. Maintain their regular walk, play, and feeding routine, so they can accept the transition with ease.
Hire the services of a reputed and experienced moving company so that the relocation runs smoothly and you can focus on all other essential things.