Moving is stressful enough as it is. With boxes aplenty and furniture to pack (usually in a hurry), it can be a pressing time for families, individuals, couples and groups of friends. Add a pet (or multiple) into the mix, and the situation can get all the more tense, especially once you’ve moved into the new space. This is because moving can confuse your pets. The territory that was once theirs has changed rapidly and no longer feels right. They’ve lost their home (usually one of many years) and don’t know what to do. In many cases, this can shift their behaviours quite dramatically.
So, how do you make this as easy as possible for them? We’ve detailed some of our tips below:
Prepare for travel
Whether you’re moving a few minutes down the road or across the country, travel can be incredibly stressful for pets. Take the time to practice car rides and time in the travel carrier, so your pet feels less stressed when the big day comes. Also be sure to pack their carrier with items that bring them comfort, including a towel that they have slept on, their favourite toy and even some small treats. As you’re training them to get familiar with the carrier, be sure to make it a positive experience for them. For example, feeding them treats before and after they enter the carrier can help them think of it as a good experience, rather than a threatening one.
If you will be travelling for extreme periods, it’s also wise to ask your vet about potential sedation to alleviate stress for you and your pet.
Leave them in good care during the packing process.
During the pack-up process, your house will likely be in some chaos. With moving teams coming in and out, doors opening and closing and things all over the place, it can be too easy to lose track of your pets. Having them stay with a loved one or friend during this process is, therefore, one of your safest options. If your pet doesn’t cope well with strangers, this also ensures they are not left feeling stressed, anxious and frightened of what the future has in store.
Pets can sense that something is happening even days in advance. So, sending them with a chew toy and their favourite snacks can make it all a little easier for them,
Introduce them to their new space slowly.
You need time to adapt to your new space and so too does your new pet. While you may be excited to show them everything all at once, we recommend confining them to a small section of your new home for a few days. This way, any anxiety and stress they felt over the moving process has the chance to mellow out.
Every pet is different, so study yours for signs that they are ready to explore more of their new home. Some may only need a day or two whereas others may require a week. Patience is key to ensuring they integrate seamlessly.
Questions? We’re here to help.
We know stressful experiences can put a strain on your relationship with your pets. Need help ensuring your move process is smooth? Contact the PetNest team for information, product recommendations and more.
