Moving could be both an exciting and stressful time for you and your pet. Therefore, it is essential to begin preparing your pet for the move as soon as it is feasible. Moving even a short distance can disrupt your pet’s routine and sense of safety, and long-distance relocations can be especially challenging for a furry family member. Here are some tips to get your pet ready for the big day so that they can adjust to the transfer as smoothly as possible.
Prepare Ahead of Time
It’s best to start preparing your pet as soon as possible if you plan to move soon with them. Plan and address a few key issues in advance to ensure a smooth relocation. For instance, make sure the data on your pet’s license, tags, or microchip is current. Make a vet appointment to make sure your pet is healthy and that you have all the prescription medications they need on hand. However, if your pet dislikes the veterinarian’s office, try to avoid scheduling appointments too close to the move, as this may exacerbate the pet’s anxiety.
Stick to Routines
A regular schedule is what animals crave as they are creatures of habit. This is why the turmoil of moving, especially the days and weeks before and after, may be quite stressful for them. While you start to pack for your move, try your best to keep as much of your regular routine as you can. This is especially important for dogs because they could become anxious or start acting destructively if neglected. As much as you can, keep your daily schedule the same for your walks, meals, and playtime.
Introduce the Crate Early On
If your pet must spend time in a cage or kennel as part of your relocation, this can be a particularly unpleasant experience for them if they are not already accustomed to one. A few weeks prior to the move, one of the best ways to prepare your companion for the move is to introduce the crate and allow it to become associated with positive experiences. Consider encouraging them to explore the crate and rewarding them with food when they do. This will prevent your companion from experiencing excessive anxiety on the big day.
Bring Comfort Items
The aromas and sounds of home draw pets in. You can bring along certain sensory objects to help your pet remain calm during a move. Keep your pet’s preferred blanket or bed with them as you relocate, for instance. Another thing that can help a stressed-out pet is a favorite toy or even a piece of your clothing. In addition, keep your pet’s food, treats, and water separate and with you before, during, and after the transfer.
Provide a Safe Space
When the big day approaches, you may want to consider reserving a special spot for your companion. It is best to place pets in a quiet room or fenced-in yard during a move, as they may become anxious or even run away if given the opportunity. To spare your pet the stress and turmoil of the transfer, think about asking a dependable friend or family member to care for them while you are away. Providing a secure space will help reduce your pet’s anxiety and keep them out of harm’s way during a move.
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