Preparing To Move With Pets: 5 Key Tips
Moving to a new home is stressful for everyone, including your furry family members. While you may be focused on new jobs, schools, and neighbors, it's important to remember that Fido and Bella are feeling the pressure too.
When they see suitcases come out, they most likely get anxious. When boxes are packed and their familiar home is emptied, they can become confused and frightened. This is especially true for rescues with troubled pasts. Don't forget to give your pets extra love and care during this transition.
Safeguard Your Pets: 5 Tips For A Safe And Comfortable Move:
1 - Choosing your new home
Make sure to keep your pets needs in mind when choosing your new home. Is there room in the house to install a doggy door? Dogs will need access to a yard, so a condo could prove problematic. There are portable porch potties available, but not every dog will embrace the go on a tiny square.
Cats, on the other hand, need vertical space to climb. Does your prospective new home have an area to put a climbing tree? Space for a litter box? Is it safe for them to go outdoors to play and explore?
2 - packing up your home
Animals—especially cats—are not fond of change. You can help your furry friends adjust to their move by keeping them in a quiet, familiar space with the door shut, or by bringing your empty boxes into the house for a few days before you start packing them. This way, they’ll have a chance to familiarize themselves with the new scents, and they won’t become overwhelmed by everything happening at once.
3 - Traveling with Pets
Ease your [non-crate-trained](https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/training/how-to-crate-train-your-dog-in-9-easy-steps/) animals into the idea of being in a crate before your move by giving them time to explore it and grow comfortable. Start with placing their food bowls inside while the door remains open, gradually working up to brief periods with the door closed.
Offer positive reinforcement such as treats and snuggles when they exit the crate. Once they've become accustomed to being inside, take them for a short drive around the block each day. After a few weeks, their transition to a new home will feel much easier - for both of you!
4 - Making your New Home Safe for your Pets
Moving into a new home can be thrilling, but don't let your excitement cause you to forget about Bella and Fido. They'll be exploring along with you, so keep an eye out for any potential hazards.
Check for areas where they could sneak out, secure tempting cords and tight spaces, and inspect cabinets and backyard areas for rodent traps or poison. And, don't forget to keep any [toxic plants](https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control/toxic-and-non-toxic-plants) far out of reach.
Let's make sure our pets stay safe and happy in their new home!
5 - Home Sweet Home
When you arrive at your new home, create a safe, quiet area for your furry friends to relax and adjust to their surroundings. Once things are settled, start their exploration slowly - one room at a time.
During the first few days, keep their food, water, and litter box close by. But as they get more comfortable, set up permanent feeding and litter areas so they know where to go.
After they've settled in, introduce them to the rest of your home and put away their crates. With these tips, you and your pets can enjoy your new home in no time!
Congratulations! You've successfully moved with pets!