Moving homes is often a tad stressful, depending on all the planning and unplanned surprises that come with the process (takes deep breath). But, moving homes with a pet can actually be a whole different kettle of fish.
Believe it or not, your pet’s life is often based on routines and familiarity with its environment. Also, your emotions greatly affect theirs too, so how you feel while moving- greatly influences how stressed or unsettled they feel. We are certain, you want nothing but the absolute best for your pet, so we’ve put together a little list to help ease the move for your cute and cuddly or non-cuddle loving pet.
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Tag & Chip
This is our way of letting you know that to ease any form of anxiety before or during the move process, it is best to get your pet tagged or micro-chipped. This ensures that they can always be monitored and found if they ever choose to play a little game of hide and seek with you. Find your nearest microchipping service.
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Pet Patrol
Before moving to your new home in a new neighbourhood, if it isn’t too far away from where you currently live, try to take your pet over to get a bit familiar with the area. This makes the transition a lot better and easier for your pet.
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Neighbourly Chat
If your pet is a cat, chances are they run away; back to where they used to live. So be sure to inform your (former) neighbours ahead, that if they see your pet cat, they shouldn’t feed it. This will ensure it returns home to you. If your pet is fed by them, chances are it will keep running away. Dogs can also do this too, so informing your neighbour is the best way to go regardless of what kind of pet you own.
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Peekaboo
On the day you have movers coming into your apartment, try to protect your pet by placing it in a room surrounded by items it is already familiar with, and keep it in that room while your furniture, clothing, rugs etc. are being moved. This serves not to spook your pet or make it feel like its world is being turned upside down. You can also dedicate a family member to constantly check on your pet while the move is in progress.
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Keep it Real
Dogs, cats and pretty much all pets love their routines, so stick to your waking time, playtime and feeding time in the new home. Changing any of these patterns can often unsettle them. Humans love routines sometimes, but our pets need and thrive on them.
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Tell the Movers
If you own an exotic pet, the last thing you want is for your movers to go running, immediately they see it. So inform them ahead to make sure there are no surprises. Also, ensure that your mover’s pack-up the room that has your pet in it last. This gives your pet a whole lot of time in your old home.
We hope all our provided tips help ease the transition because we’re dedicated to making moving a doddle. But feel free to let us know via email or any of our social channels if there are other important tips to share. 😊
