Keep Your Pets Safe and Comfortable During a Move

If you’re excited, scared and stressed about an upcoming move, you can bet your pets are picking up on that. Humans aren’t the only ones that are affected by major changes such as a relocation. Moving is a huge transition for all family members, your pets included. So do your best to reduce stress and the chance for illness in your pets with these tips.

There are things you can do before, during and after the move to make them more comfortable.

Preparing to Move

It takes a lot of planning when you move, especially if you have pets. You have to pack up their things, plus work with your pet to help them get ready for the change. This is why you should start early with the preparations so you have lots of time to hammer out the details. If you have put your home on the market and need to sell it before moving, there will be a lot of chaos with all the showings and open houses. Make plans for someone to take care of your pets during those busy times.

Packing Their Belongings

Your pet may not have a lot of stuff, but you should gather at least two sturdy boxes to contain their belongings. This should include one essentials box which should be accessible throughout the move, as well as another box for all items that aren’t needed on a daily basis.

Instead of cardboard boxes, you may want to try plastic totes with handles. In the essentials box, you should include everything your pet will need during moving day as well as their first overnight in the new place:

• ID tags
• Food and water dishes
• Treats
• A few days’ worth of food
• Kitty litter and scoop
• Harness or leash
• Trash bags for waste
• Blanket or towel
• Medications and supplements
• Toys

Transferring to a New Vet

Before you even think about moving, make sure you have secured a new vet in the new location. If you’re not sure who to choose, ask your current vet for a recommendation. Then have all records transferred over well ahead of time. Next, set up the first visit with the new vet so you don’t forget once you’re all settled in.

If you are traveling by car and you know your pet gets anxious or motion sick when you’re driving, ask the vet for a sleep med prescription.

At this time, you will also want to make sure the information on your pet’s tag is accurate and up to date, such as new phone number and address, name and any special instructions. If you have been contemplating microchipping your dog, do this before you move.

Moving to the New Home

Moving day is often very challenging and can easily be the most stressful part of your move. Pets pick up on nervous energy, so try to stay calm and collected so they won’t get upset. Think about how often your pet will need exercise, playtime, meals and sleep, and be sure to fit those in. In LA’s warm climate, you should do all you can to prevent heatstroke.

Think about how you will keep your pet cool and comfortable through all phases of the move. Give them fresh water when they need it, or ask a friend or family member to take care of your pet on moving day so they don’t get underfoot.

Take some time to research and explore the neighborhood and community. There could be breed-specific legislation regarding different dogs in the new city so ask about those beforehand. You may be required to spay or neuter your pet, or you may not even be allowed to have pets in your new condo. Avoid unpleasant surprises by finding out about these things first.

Traveling With Pets

Before traveling, take into account your pet’s age, size, temperament, and medical conditions. This will determine how you should best travel to the new place, whether by car, train or plane.  Usually, driving them to the new home in a car is the best transportation method because they will be the most comfortable with that.

Put your pet in its carrier and place the carrier in the car along with the essentials box. Make sure it’s secure.

If you decide to fly to your new destination, just remember that this can cause a lot of stress for your pet. You will have to research the airline policies regarding pet travel, then acclimate your pet to their crate beforehand. Make sure the crate you buy has met the airline’s requirements.

Get Your Pet Settled In

Once you’re in the new home, you can rest easy a bit knowing the worst is over. Just be sure to give your pet plenty of time to get used to the new surroundings, sounds and smells. Keep up with their normal routine to reduce anxiety and stress. Go for long walks around the neighborhood so they can stay active and dispel any nervous energy.

If you have a cat, keep them in one room of the house with their bed, water, litter box, and toys until they become comfortable enough to emerge and explore the rest of the house, says the ASPCA. Make sure the room has a window, and do a deep clean beforehand to get rid of the previous cat’s scent. This will reduce anxiety and discomfort.

Contact Good Neighbors Moving Company

If you’re planning a move with pets, let us handle all your packing and hauling needs. We can’t put your dog on the truck, but we can load all their belongings! Get a free moving quote in Los Angeles County at 323-784-9731 . We specialize in moving people, and their beloved pets, to cities all throughout LA and beyond.