Preparation
Preparing a move can be stressful enough on us humans, but it can be life-changing for pets. When relocating, it’s important to consider how to handle your furry companion during the moving process.
Start by identifying what they need to stay relaxed, give yourself plenty of time to plan for accommodating their needs, and ideally, you’ll want to keep them secluded and away from the action during the move, but we’ll get into that later.
Packing Their Belongings
You’ll need to pack their belongings into boxes and everything else with your move, but also be sure to pack a box of essentials that is easily accessible during your move. Plastic totes are ideal for their durability and to protect everything from moisture. Your essentials box should include everything your pet will need during the first few days of the move, or in case there’s an emergency. Some of these items include:
- ID tags
- Food and water dishes
- 2-3 days worth of food and treats
- Kitty litter and scoop, if you’re a cat owner
- Harness or leash
- Trash bags
- A blanket or towel
- Toys or chewies
- Medications or supplements
Updating the Vet
Whether it’s finding a new vet, or simply updating your existing one, your pet it just like you when it comes to updating their medical information. Updating your vet can help them update their medical records and any prescription medications your pets may have.
Keep Them Secluded and Out of the Action
Odds are that your pets will be very stressed during the moving process. This is an entirely new thing they’re doing and they’re going to an entirely new environment. As much as it may be painful, it’s important to focus on getting your things unpacked and under control during the move.
You should keep your animals somewhere they can’t interfere with your move, because it’ll be stressful enough! When everything has settled down, you can let them out of their crates or a separate room and get them adjusted to their new environment.
Getting them Adjusted
Your pet will likely take some time getting used to their new home. Whether that’s the new lighting, smells, or the way you’ve arranged the room, they’ll be very curious. Be sure to be comforting and reassuring the first few days in your new place. They’ll associate you with their new home and that can help ease them into their new environment.
Whether it’s moving down the street or across the country, Elite Moving and Storage can help in all of your relocation efforts!