How To Move Your Pet Safely
Are you considering moving home? If you are thinking about moving then be sure to follow our important petside moving tips!
Moving home is clearly among the most stressful events in our life's - for us humans that is! Imagine what your pet is thinking when 'home sweet home' is packed up and hauled off, only to reappear on strange new turf! So during this hectic time, be careful not to overlook the needs of your furry, finned and feathered friends. Planning is vital for a smooth transition.
If you are transporting your pet by plane, train or car, please talk to your veterinarian for advice on how you're important pet can make the trip most comfortably. For air travel, allow ample time to make arrangements and meet all air travel guidelines.
Here are our key tips to ensure your furry friend is happy with your new move:
1. Plan ahead
If you begin to plan in advance your move will become less stressful on you and your pet. Pack your belongings over a period of time, and try to maintain your pet's normal routine. Begin packing well in advance so your pet becomes accustomed to changes in their environment. If your pet's routine will alter after the move then gradually alter the routine before the move - to get your pet used to the new routine. Try to change play times and walk times a bit. If your move will take you from an urban environment to a suburban or rural one (or vise versa) introduce your pet to new environments and assess their response.
If you have concerns about how your pet may react to these changes, then consult with a veterinary behaviourist to develop a treatment plan for your pet. As soon as you know your new address, make sure that you purchase new identification tags for each pet. If your pet is micro-chipped, call the microchip manufacturer to update the database with your new contact information.
2. Buy a high-quality sturdy pet carrier.
If you would like to transport your pet then make sure you buy a good carrier before moving day. This will ensure the safety of your pet during transit.
3. Tips for a smooth moving day and travel to your new home
Be sure your dog or cat is wearing their collar with new ID tags on moving day. When the movers arrive, secure your pets in a quiet room, away from the main traffic areas to prevent them from escaping. Be sure to alert each mover and family member that the room is off limits.
4. Settling into your new found home
While you and your family may be excited about your new home, your pet may feel confused or disoriented and will take some time to adjust to their new surroundings. Be patient and offer lots of love and affection to soothe their nerves.
Cats: For the first few days, your cats will benefit from being confined to a single room while you organise the rest of your home. Unpack their bedding, toys, food and water dish and litter box and consider a window perch for them to enjoy the new view. After a few days, introduce cats to one new room at a time, always reminding them where the litter box is located.
Dogs: Ideally, introduce dogs to a new home when furniture is in place. Let them become familiar with one room before introducing to another. This can take a few days, but will ease your dogs' nerves and prevent a frightened escape. And when taking your pet outdoors, keep him or her on a leash. Choose a new veterinarian for your pet as soon as possible! Talk to your new neighbours or contact the local veterinary association for help. Also, find the nearest emergency veterinary hospital and take a practice drive to find it so you don't waste precious time in a crisis.
With your love and assurance, your pet will soon adjust to your new abode. After all, for pets, home is where you are!
Edited by Elaine Millward.
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