After figuring out how to sell a home with pets, your next mission will be to figure out how to move with them. As exciting as it is to go to a new home, a fair amount of stress is always involved.
The best way to move with pets is undoubtedly something you’ll want to consider to keep your stress levels in check.
For pet owners, the love for their animals is undeniable. When moving day comes, it’s crucial not to overlook the needs of these important family members.
Pets thrive on routine, and moving can be pretty disruptive. However, there are several measures you can take to help your pet navigate the challenges of moving and minimize any stress they may experience.
Moving stress is involved for everyone in your family – including your pet. Whether you have a dog, cat, Guinea pig, or fish, you can guarantee that your pet will suffer from at least some stress while moving.
To minimize the amount of discomfort for both you and your pet, take some time to prepare and plan your move.
Focusing on the before, during, and after of the move will make everything easier and safer for your animal companion.
As a Realtor who has moved with pets on numerous occasions and helped numerous homeowners do the same, preparation is crucial.
I hope you enjoy these exceptional tips for moving with pets that should make your life less complicated during a relocation.
13 Essential Facts and Statistics to Know
1. Moving with pets can be stressful for the animals and their owners.
2. It’s essential to update your pet’s identification tags before moving.
3. Research pet-friendly accommodations and transportation options in advance.
4. Consider the distance of your move before making road trips.
5. Understand air travel guidelines before taking your animals on a plane.
6. Research a local pet sitter if you need assistance.
7. Gradually introduce your pet to their new surroundings to help them adjust.
8. Consult with a veterinarian for necessary vaccinations or medications before moving.
9. Approximately 65% of pet owners move with their furry companions.
10. Over 75% of pet owners consider their pets’ needs when selecting a new home.
11. Studies show that 9 out of 10 pets adjust well to a new environment within the first month of moving.
12. On average, pet owners spend $500 on pet relocation expenses during a move.
13. More than 30% of moving companies offer specialized services for safely transporting pets.
How To Move With Pets
Let’s examine fifteen critical items you should consider.
Pack Your Belongings Over Time
Gradually packing is a moving tip guaranteed to make things easier for both of you. Many people make the mistake of waiting until the last minute to pack their belongings.
Packing always takes more time than you expect. You wind up going through many old things, not understanding what has accumulated. Of course, separating what you want to keep and what you want to give or throw away takes a while.
If you are hurried, your pet will often pick up on your anxiety, making it more uncomfortable and anxious. Pets also tend to like things the way they are, and tearing up your home quickly can upset an animal.
Research Pet Laws and Regulations
One of the often overlooked things to do when moving with pets is to learn the rules and regulations about owning them in your new area.
You may need to register the animal, pay an individual fee, or meet different vaccination requirements. Knowing this beforehand will give you time to take care of it before you arrive.
Talk to Your Veterinarian
Let your vet know that you are moving so they can help you prepare your animal. You may need to update vaccinations. If you are moving far enough, you might want to get a recommendation from your current vet on a new vet in your area.
If your pet suffers from any anxiety, the doctor can prescribe you medication to help.
They can also fill prescriptions for any other necessary medications.
Update All Pet Identification
Your animals should have a suitable collar that is unlikely to slip off. Update your pet’s ID tag with your new information, including how someone can contact you in an emergency.
Updating your pet’s information is one of the most valuable tips for moving with pets.
If your pet is microchipped, contact the company that stores the information to provide an update. If your pet hasn’t been microchipped, now is an excellent time to have it done.
Dogs and cats can quickly become lost in a new neighborhood, and you want to ensure they can be identified. Micro-chipping for pets is relatively inexpensive.
Almost all veterinarians and animal control organizations scan incoming pets for microchips, so the fact that you are the owner will be known.
Also, take a current photo of your pet – just in case.
Prepare Your New Home
Preparation is most straightforward to do this while the house is still empty. Scan the fence for any holes or gaps the animal could get through and repair them.
Ensure no leftover poison is out where a dog could get to it. Doing a general safety and security check will make you more comfortable letting your animal loose.
Depending on the personality of your pets, you may find that they are either frightened and confused or downright hyperactive.
My sister recently experienced this in her move from Hopkinton, Massachusetts, to York Beach, Maine. Her dog decided to dig up several shrubs on her lot.
Your pet might be as excited to be in a new environment as you are or just as quickly upset by it.
Once you have brought your pets into their new home, ensuring they have everything they are used to, like their bed, food, water, and toys, becomes necessary.
You want to make a move with your pet that is as stress-free as possible.
Make an Animal Travel Kit
Set aside a small supply of food for your pet, along with its bed, toys, and any other things you want quick access to. This way, you can pack most of it with the rest of your belongings without worrying about digging through boxes to feed your animal.
Secure Your Pet in Your Vehicle
Ensuring the animal for the trip on your moving day is worthwhile. It may be quite agitated and prone to running off or acting up – the last thing you want while driving or when you get out of the car.
A kennel or carrier is best when secured in the back seat. A car restraint is also an option.
Stay Secure on Your Moving Day
Keep your pet safe on your moving day. It may be easiest to leave it with a friend, but if this is not an option, you should determine how to keep it isolated and safe as you move out of the old house and into the new one.
You can hold it in a crate or a bathroom, for instance. Please check the animal periodically to ensure it is comfortable, fed, and watered.
Have an Emergency Bag
I have often recommended to my clients to have a unique moving day bag. The same can be done for pets.
Make the moving process less stressful for you and your pet by ensuring all their essentials are packed and easily accessible. This includes water bowls, favorite toys, a blanket, food, treats, and kitty litter.
Remember to pack a roll of paper towels and disposable plastic bags to assist with unexpected clean-ups.
Start With Small Spaces
Starting small in the new home with dogs and cats is often best. You know your animal best, but remember that an animal, especially a cat, will be more comfortable staying in a smaller area like a bedroom before having full rein in the house.
Introduce Them to Neighbors
While it may sound corny, one of the best tips for moving with pets is introducing them to your new neighbors. As stated before, it is easy for dogs and cats to get lost upon first moving to a new area.
If they leave, you want as many people as possible to know they are yours. Consider taking your pet around with you to introduce yourself to your neighbors. This way, if your pet does escape, your friends can tell you about it.
Walk Your Dog Soon
Throw a leash on your dog and start walking as soon as possible. Dogs love to explore and smell new smells, which will help reduce the stress of the move. It will also give your dog some reference points for finding their way home.
The more often you can walk, the better your dog will know where home is.
Keep Your Pets Engaged
During the moving process, it is essential to prioritize the entertainment and exercise of your pets. Despite being busy, setting aside extra time for this purpose is crucial. This is because burning off their anxious energy is one of the most effective ways to alleviate stress.
When your pets are tired, they tend to be calmer, resulting in a more peaceful move for everyone involved.
When your schedule is too packed to accommodate an additional walk or play session for your pet, it might be worth contacting a friend for assistance. They could take your furry companion for some outdoor playdates.
Alternatively, you could also opt for a dog walking service to ensure your pup gets the exercise and break from a busy household that they need. You can explore reliable options like Wag or Rover through their respective apps.
Settled From The Move With Your Pets
Once you have settled into your new home, more work will be done for your animal.
Research Your New Area For Your Pets
Once you have gotten comfortable at your new place, you shouldn’t wait long to discover what is essential for your pets.
For example, one of the first things you will want to do is contact your new veterinarian. The vet who you have been using may be able to help you with this if you are not moving out of state.
Your new vet will want all the records and medical history, so don’t forget to get copies from your old vet. They will also ask to see a copy of your pet’s current level of vaccinations.
Ask About Local Issues
Once you have a new veterinarian for your pets, ask them if there have been any high incidences of Lyme disease or heartworm that you should be concerned about.
You should also ask if there are any local vaccinations that the town or city requires. If your pet becomes injured, you will also want to research where the closest animal hospital is located. It is always better to be safe than sorry. The last thing you want to do if your pet becomes hurt is to scramble to find out where you can take them!
Use the internet and your neighbors to find out about nearby pet stores and parks, especially dog parks, if you have a dog. Knowing about all these places before you need them is a good idea.
Find Out Local Laws and Customs
Determining whether any specific leash laws will also be a significant consideration. Some cities and towns require dogs to be on leashes at all times or possibly during certain hours.
If buying into a planned community or a condominium complex with a homeowner association, you should also look at their by-laws to see what you can and can not do with your pets. This should be done before making an offer.
Understanding HOA rules is crucial.
When you purchase into a homeowners association, you will be governed by other people’s regulations. Many people lose sight of this if they are used to a home without such an arrangement.
Pets Take Time to Adjust
From my experience moving multiple times with pets, I know sometimes there is an adjustment period. Moving to a new house can be upsetting to a pet. Just like humans, they may not like moving to a new place. Think about your teenager who is dead set against it.
When introducing your pet to a new space, take it slow. At first, keep them confined to one area of the house and ensure that all their essential items are easily accessible.
If you have a cat, it’s best to wait until they feel more at ease in their new environment before moving their litter box to a permanent spot.
Familiarity is Essential
Please don’t rush to replace their old toys, beds, or water dishes. Familiar objects can help them feel more comfortable.
Upon your arrival, taking your dog for a walk around your new residence, whether a house or condo, is recommended. This will allow your furry friend to familiarize themselves with the new scents and adapt to their new environment.
As for your cat, it is advisable to provide them with a secluded area where they can retreat and feel secure.
Maintaining a routine as much as possible is crucial for your pet’s well-being. Returning to your usual routine will make your pet feel more comfortable and settled sooner.
During the first week, spending as much time as possible at home to reassure your pet is vital. Spoil them. Give them extra love and attention. It will go a long way toward making them feel more comfortable.
Conclusion
Use these tips on moving with pets to ensure an easier transition to your new address. Understanding how to move with pets will ensure your life and animals are far less stressed.
About the Author: Bill Gassett, a nationally recognized leader in his field, provided information on moving with pets. He is an expert in mortgages, financing, moving, home improvement, and general real estate.
Learn more about Bill Gassett and the publications he has been featured in. Bill can be reached via email at billgassett@remaxexec.com or by phone at 508-625-0191. Bill has helped people move in and out of Metrowest towns for the last 38+ years.
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