Moving into a new home usually sparks mixed emotions.
You might feel nostalgic leaving your current home behind. You might feel excited about where you’re going and a new beginning.
Th actual act of moving likely has you feeling… Stressed. Frazzled. Anxious.
You are not alone in these feelings!
Moving is no easy task, and it can be a source of stress for everyone involved, but especially for pets. You know that feeling you get when something is about to change, but you can’t put your finger on what? Now imagine that feeling, but you can’t quite put your paw on it, and you can’t ask questions.
There are boxes coming out. There is bubble wrap appearing. Items are disappearing from their normal spots. It’s no wonder pets feel the effects!
Here are some tips to prepare and execute a move with pets involved:
1. Introduce moving materials early on.
Bring out your moving supplies (boxes, bubble wrap, suit cases, etc.) before you even need them. Let your pets explore them and sense a calmer energy in their presence. Put things in the boxes slowly but surely instead of frantically packing at the last minute. Making these items recognizable to your pets will create less anxious feelings about them when moving day arrives.
2. Update Their ID Tags
Moving is a time when our pets are at-risk of being spooked. This is due to environmental changes, like movers in the house, or loud noises from furniture shifting. A spooked pet may be more likely to look for an exit. While pets should be locked away safely during the move, you still want to prepare and make sure all collar tags and microchips are up to date before the big day. This will be helpful in case of an accidental emergency!
3. Transport Securely
As mentioned above, moving time is a high-risk situation for pets to make a run for it. Even if your pet normally transports easily, make an effort to secure them more effectively on the day of a move. You can do so with a proper crate or car seatbelt, and make sure they are leashed at all times when outdoors. When they arrive at the new location, they may be wondering where they are and what is happening, so you’ll want to take the extra precaution, even for the most calm and collected pet.
4. Use interactive bones and toys to keep them busy.
Whether your pets are waiting in a room or crate to leave your old location, or are hanging out in the new, you can utilize busy items to keep your pet happy while you pack/unpack. Use puzzle games, long lasting bones, or Kong’s to exercise their brain and delight their taste buds. It will help to take the edge off of those moving stress woes! Be sure to take breaks and check on your pet while they chew and play.
The more prepared everyone is for a move, the less stressful it will be. This goes for you and your pets!