Moving can be a stressful experience, but the experience can be even more overwhelming if you have pets. Our furry friends can sense that something big is going on in their household, and they can experience stress during the move, too! One of the best things you can do is take some time in your packing and moving schedule to make special preparations and considerations for your pets. Let’s look at some crucial factors to consider to ensure you and your pets have a smooth and stress-free moving experience.
How Much Does It Cost to Relocate a Pet?
The costs to relocate a pet widely vary based on the services you choose and what type of move you are making. If you are moving across the country and taking a plane to your new location, we highly recommend researching the airline’s pet policies, pricing, and reviews before purchasing your tickets. Airline prices and services vary, so it is important to investigate thoroughly.
If you are driving with your pets for a local or long-distance move, there are only a few additional costs to incur to take your pet along with you. You will need a way to keep your pets safe in the vehicle— a car harness or travel crate will work perfectly for that. If you are staying overnight somewhere, you will need to book a place that accepts pets.
How Do You Move Long-Distance with a Pet?
Preparation is key when you are moving with pets. Whether you are moving locally or long-distance, it is essential to prepare in advance to ensure your pets are moved safely and comfortably. Break the moving process into steps: packing days, moving days, transit, and settling into your new home. Consider what your pet will need for each of those steps to keep them safe and calm.
Keeping Your Pets Safe During a Move
The safety of our furry family members is of utmost importance when moving. Here are some vital things you should do before you begin the moving process:
>Be sure your pet is wearing a secure collar with identifying tags. If they can escape the home during the chaos of moving, you have a greater chance of them being returned to you if they are wearing tags with your phone number or address. You also have the option of having them microchipped to locate them quickly.
>Consider boarding them in a reputable facility or having a trusted friend or family member keep them until you are ready to leave for your new home. It can be sad to leave them somewhere during a stressful time, but it can be helpful to know they are safe and well-cared for a while you are packing and getting everything moved out of your house. This is especially important if you have a packing or professional labor company in your home to assist in the process. Doors get left open unintentionally, and our stressed-out pets can run out of the house.
>If they are going to stay with you while you are packing and moving, leave them in the room you intend to pack up last. Not only will this minimize the ins and outs of the room--giving them fewer chances to sneak out--but they will feel some comfort being surrounded by familiar things. Tape a sign on the door to alert anyone helping you to keep the door shut so they cannot run out.
>Make sure you have any health conditions checked out before moving, have all of your pet’s vaccines updated, and all medications refilled. Things can get hectic when you are trying to settle into your new home, and you want to make sure you have everything you need for your pets when you get there—especially if they are on any special medications. Be sure you find them a vet in your new location as soon as possible.
>If your pet is especially antsy, talk with your pet’s vet about safe medications that can help keep them calm during the packing, moving, and transit portions of this process.
>Make sure you have everything your pet needs for the drive: food, water, bowls, medications, toys, and anything else that your pet needs daily.
>Be careful about leaving toxic materials or food out that your pet can get into while you are moving. Remember, a pet’s behavior can be out of the ordinary when they are stressed. Keep a close eye on them if they are not in a safe area. A pet that doesn’t typically get into things may decide to check out a box of food from the pantry.
Special Considerations for Moving with a Dog
Dogs differ from other pets because they can often be more energetic than most. It can be highly beneficial to make sure they can work out their energy throughout the day. We know it can be a hectic time, but leave a little room in your packing and moving days to take a few walks around the block. It can be good for you, too!
You should also make sure your dogs are visited frequently while you are packing and moving. If you have them staying in a safe room or a crate, you should give them frequent visits to keep them calm and happy. Leave them with their favorite toys, so they have some comforting items with them.
Special Considerations for Moving with a Cat
Cats are not known for their love of confined spaces. This can be a problem if they are going to be in a carrier for the move. One thing you can do is start training them in advance to stay calm in a carrier. You can do this by leaving their carrier around the home to explore it as a safe place. You can make it a comfortable place with a soft bed, and you can even put their food, treats, or toys inside to teach them that the carrier is a good place to be.
How To Get Settled in Your New Home with Your Pets
Whew! You made it to your new home, and now it is time to get settled. Don’t be alarmed if your pet is behaving differently when you arrive at your new location. Some pets may exhibit some stress or even depression with such a significant change in surroundings. This can start to subside when you get your things all set up again.
If your pet’s behavior doesn’t return to normal even after you are done unpacking and all settled in, it can be worth a visit to your new vet to make sure that all is well. Some animals, like cats, can be sensitive to the new smells of the area as well. Be sure to give the house or apartment a deep clean to help remove the scent of the previous tenants and animals.
We hope this helps as you get ready to relocate with your pets. For more helpful tips view our other Moving How-to Guides here, as well as other moving and storage resources we offer. For more information about the services 1-800-PACK-RAT offers, give us a call at 1-800-722-5728 or visit us online. We would be happy to help you with any of your storage, local, or long-distance moving needs.
Updated August 12, 2021