Moving Blog
April 30, 2024

6 Tips for Moving with Pets: A Guide from Professional Movers

moving with petsBy Julie DeLong, A-1 Freeman Moving Group 

Moving is usually a stressful experience, not only for humans but also for pets. For your furry members of the family, transitioning from one environment to another can be hectic because it involves adjusting to a new place without really understanding what is happening. So, how do you make your pets comfortable during the moving period?
 

Whether you are moving across the streets or out of the state, proper planning is required to ensure your pets have a happy and less sensitive transition to their new environment.

Here are a few ideas from professional movers:

Get your pet used to packing supplies

One way to prepare your pets for moving is to include them in the packing process. Instead of locking them in a room as you organize items in the house, let them play with the boxes and satisfy their curiosity. Remember that if they don't do this, they are bound to feel nervous, which could result in stress-related behavior such as barking, hyperactivity, and jumping.

Familiarizing your pets with the moving supplies (including the ones your moving company will use) also helps to reduce disruptions and resistance, making the transition easy and stress-free.

Avoid changing your routine

Changing your routine because you are preoccupied with packing and organizing could result in anxiety for your pets, consequently making the moving process even more stressful. It is advisable to keep their routine (as well as yours) the same, including feeding time, walking and playtime, and even baths.

Keep in mind that moving is stressful for your pets too. It is therefore important that you show some extra love and patience throughout the period.

Contact your vet

If moving out of your current area, you will need to visit your vet, and there are several reasons why this is important: 

  • To ensure vaccinations are up to date
  • Get necessary prescriptions to avoid having to make emergency visits to the vet
  • Get professional advice on how to reduce stress and ease anxiety
  • Ask for a recommendation for a new vet in your new community
  • Get a copy of your pet’s vet records to take with you

Take the pet in your vehicle

There are safe ways to carry your pets in the car as your other items get transported in professional movers' trucks. For small cats and dogs, put them in a carrier and secure it with a safety belt. For huge pets, like a bigger dog, put them in a kennel in the back of the car.

Don't let your pet out

Avoid opening the kennel until you are inside your house. Let them explore their new home and supervise them carefully when first letting them out into your securely fenced yard. Or take them out on a leash if you don’t have a secure fence or aren’t sure if there are spots where your pet could escape your yard.

Keep them secluded

Keep your pets secluded as much as possible until the house is all set up, and everything is where it is supposed to be. Once they see familiar things like furniture, they are less likely to panic. In the meantime, let them study the surroundings at their own pace. Also, give them toys and blankets they are familiar with to make them feel at home. It won't take long until they are fully adjusted to their new home.

Summary

Like humans, pets have a unique personality and therefore react differently to moving. And since you know your pet best, you know how to make their transition as seamless as possible.

 

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Very pleased with the overall respect and care the men gave to my possessions. Even mailing me very quickly the only thing lost in transit. Would recommend to anyone needing a long distant move.

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