Moving with Pets: A Step-by-Step Guide
Moving to a new home can be exciting, but if you add pets to the mix, the entire process becomes slightly more complex. There is no doubt that moving is stressful, but it’s even more unsettling for our pets. Pets are highly sensitive to changes in their environment, and any disruptions to their usual routine can cause them anxiety, raise health concerns and even lead to behavioural changes.
Some animals will starve, remain concealed for days or be more vocal/aggressive as a result of the uncertainty that is unfolding around them. Also, long-distance relocations involve the added logistics of ensuring safe transportation and conforming to pet travel restrictions.
This article provides a step-by-step guide on navigating the complexities of moving with pets. From pre-move preparations to settling your furry friends into the new home, it will cover everything you need to know on reducing their stress, maintaining their well-being and ensuring a smooth transition. With careful thought, advanced planning, seeking help from expert removalists Canberra, and by following the below-given insights, you can execute a move that is easy for both you and your four-legged companion.
Before the packing process starts, it’s important to prepare your pets for the ensuing changes. Most animals, especially cats and dogs, thrive on routine, so try to keep their normal schedules as normal as possible in the weeks leading up to the day of the move to help keep them calm and non-anxious. Introduce the moving boxes gradually to let them become accustomed to their sight and smell. If possible, take your pet on short trips in your car to acclimatise them to the experience of travelling in a car, especially if they’ve never been inside one before.
In addition to this, make sure your pet’s microchip or identification tags have been updated with your new address. If you’ll be moving long-distance, consider using calming sprays or pheromones to help ease their anxiety or you can also consult with your veterinary about any vaccinations and travel precautions to take.
Selecting a mode of transport that is comfortable for your pets is crucial. If you’re moving locally within the region of Canberra, you’ll be able to transport your pets in your own vehicle by ensuring they are safely secured in a crate or harness. However, if the move is more long-distance or interstate, it’s better to take professional assistance. Many reputed removalists in Canberra offer pet transportation services so that your pet can travel in a safe and comfortable environment.
If flying is involved in the relocation process, check the regulations of the airline you’ll be taking with regards to travelling with a pet, and book a direct flight to minimise the stress your pets face from it. For this, choose an airline-approved carrier and include a familiar blanket or toy inside it to ensure comfort during the journey.
Just like when moving, you pack an essentials bag for yourself; you pet needs one, too. In your pet’s essentials bag, you should include things like food, water bowls, bedding, favourite toys, leash, waste bag, litter box (for cats), medicine and any other necessary supplies to make their travel more comfortable and less disrupting. Having these items in easy access will help maintain their sense of familiarity during the travelling process.
Keeping a few familiar items unpacked until the last minute can provide reassurance to your pet, as this act allows them to have access to their favourite sleeping spot or toys, reducing overall anxiety.
Moving day is hectic and the last thing you want is your pet running around while heavy furniture is being loaded onto the moving truck. To keep them and the moving personnel safe, consider confining them in a quite secure room with their essentials until everything is locked and loaded onto the trucks. If possible, have a trusted friend or family member look after your pet for the day.
For those taking the assistance of expert Removalists Canberra, inform them about your pet so that they can work around the designated pet space and if your pet is prone to anxiety, take them for a long walk before the move to expend their nervous energy and keep them calm.
Upon arriving at the new home, take things slow and allow the pet some time to explore the home in a gradual manner. Set up a designated area for their bedding, food and toys to create a sense of familiarity. Try to keep their routines consistent, feed them according to their usual timing, take them out for walks, etc.; all this will help ease their tension and anxiety and make the transition easier.
If you have cats, it’s best to introduce them to one room at a time rather than giving them full access to the entire house immediately after arrival. For dogs, it’s better to take them on walks around the new neighbourhood so that they become more familiar with their new surroundings.
Just because the move is completed, it doesn’t mean that the anxiety and stress of the new place is over for your pets. It’s important that you monitor their behaviour for at least a few days or even a few weeks for signs of anxiety or unrest or illness. Watch for things like excessive hiding, changes in eating habits, or unusual aggression as these could indicate that they are not well and consult a veterinarian for advice on dealing with the same.
If you’ve moved to Canberra, try to find a veterinarian near your new home or ask your movers for recommendations for any local veterinary services. It will help you settle down better in the new place.
Moving with pets requires careful thought, planning and patience to ensure their well-being. Every little step matters and by following the tips given above and seeking the assistance of professionals when needed, you’ll be able to ensure that the move is stress-free and smooth not only for yourself but also for your animal companions. Good luck and happy moving!
