Moving with pets can be a challenge. There is a lot of changes that happen quickly that your beloved pets might not understand. Here are some tips and tricks to help make the process easier on your furry friends!
Try to keep to a routine
Try to do as much in their usual routine as possible leading up to and even on the day of the move if possible. Take them out at the same time, feed them their favourite treat, and keep their schedule if you can. Once your in the new place you can try to adapt the schedule in the new home and get into a new normal quickly.
Make a plan
Make a plan for the day of the move. Pets know when things are different and changing and this can cause them some anxiety. Designate one person to be in charge of the pets that day. Try to plan when you’ll leave and arrive at your new destination and if it’s a long trip, plan for some bathroom breaks and rest stops for your pet.
Create a pet kit for travelling
Collect the things your pet will need during travel and right away once you reach your destination so you don’t have to dig through boxes to find it.
Settling In
When you arrive at your new home, set up a quiet spot for your pet away from the unpacking activity. Creating a refuge with his bed or crate and a few of his favorite toys will help him relax and settle in. Encourage your pet to explore new rooms by placing toys and treats inside, and use blankets, beds, and toys with their scent on them for the first few weeks. Develop a new routine by feeding them at the same time and in the same place each day. And, within a few weeks, they should have made the adjustment and be content in their new environment.
Try to keep to a routine
Try to do as much in their usual routine as possible leading up to and even on the day of the move if possible. Take them out at the same time, feed them their favourite treat, and keep their schedule if you can. Once your in the new place you can try to adapt the schedule in the new home and get into a new normal quickly.
Make a plan
Make a plan for the day of the move. Pets know when things are different and changing and this can cause them some anxiety. Designate one person to be in charge of the pets that day. Try to plan when you’ll leave and arrive at your new destination and if it’s a long trip, plan for some bathroom breaks and rest stops for your pet.
Create a pet kit for travelling
Collect the things your pet will need during travel and right away once you reach your destination so you don’t have to dig through boxes to find it.
- Food and Treats – For canned food, don’t forget the can opener!
- Drinking Water
- Food and Water Bowls – Portable bowls pack easily and are great when you are out & about.
- Photos of your pet – In case you get separated, a current photo helps create posters quickly.
- An old towel in case of rain and muddy paws
- Your pet’s bed or blanket and a couple of toys – Having familiar items will make him more comfortable when you spend the night in unfamiliar locations.
- All medications, vitamins, supplements, etc.
- Waste bags for picking up
- First aid kit
Settling In
When you arrive at your new home, set up a quiet spot for your pet away from the unpacking activity. Creating a refuge with his bed or crate and a few of his favorite toys will help him relax and settle in. Encourage your pet to explore new rooms by placing toys and treats inside, and use blankets, beds, and toys with their scent on them for the first few weeks. Develop a new routine by feeding them at the same time and in the same place each day. And, within a few weeks, they should have made the adjustment and be content in their new environment.