Moving with Pets: Tips for a Safe and Stress-Free Move

Moving to a new home can be stressful, especially when you have pets. It’s important to plan ahead and take the necessary steps to ensure your pet’s safety during the move. Here are some tips to help make your move with pets as stress-free as possible.

1. Get Your Pet Ready for the Move

Before you start packing, make sure your pet is ready for the move. Take them to the vet for a checkup and update their vaccinations if needed. Make sure they have an ID tag with your current contact information in case they get lost during the move. If you’re moving out of state, research any additional requirements such as quarantine periods or special permits.

If your pet is not used to traveling, start getting them used to it by taking short car rides around town. This will help them become more comfortable with being in the car and reduce their anxiety on moving day.

It’s also important to create a safe space for your pet during the move. Pack a bag with all of their essentials such as food, water, toys, bedding, and medications. This will help keep them calm and provide comfort during the transition.

2. Choose the Right Transportation Method

When it comes to transporting your pet, there are several options available. If you’re driving to your new home, make sure you plan frequent stops along the way so your pet can stretch their legs and use the bathroom. If you’re flying, research airline policies regarding pets and book a direct flight if possible.

You may also want to consider hiring a professional pet transport service if you don’t feel comfortable driving or flying with your pet. These services specialize in safely transporting pets across long distances and can provide peace of mind knowing that your pet is in good hands.

No matter which transportation method you choose, make sure you have all of the necessary paperwork such as health certificates and vaccination records.

3. Prepare Your New Home for Your Pet

Once you arrive at your new home, take some time to prepare it for your pet before they arrive. Make sure all windows and doors are secure so they can’t escape. Set up their bedding in a quiet area away from any potential hazards such as stairs or electrical cords.

If possible, try to bring familiar items from their old home such as toys or blankets that smell like home. This will help them adjust more quickly to their new environment.

Finally, introduce them slowly to their new surroundings by taking them on short walks around the neighborhood or letting them explore indoors at first before allowing them outside unsupervised.

4. Monitor Your Pet During The Move

During the move itself, it’s important to keep an eye on your pet at all times. If possible, have someone stay with them while you handle other tasks such as loading boxes into the truck or supervising movers.

If you need to leave them alone for any period of time, make sure they are in a safe place where they won’t be disturbed by noise or activity from movers or other people coming in and out of the house.

Also be aware of any potential hazards that could harm your pet such as open doors or windows or exposed wires or nails that could cause injury.

5. Provide Comfort After The Move

• Give extra attention and affection after the move – this will help ease any anxiety they may be feeling about being in a new environment.
• Keep their routine consistent – stick to regular feeding times and walks so they know what to expect each day.
• Provide plenty of exercise – this will help burn off excess energy and keep them healthy both physically and mentally.
• Make sure they have access to plenty of fresh water – dehydration can occur quickly when animals are stressed so make sure they always have access to clean drinking water.
• Visit the vet – schedule an appointment soon after arriving at your new home so that any health issues can be addressed right away.

*Polmark Moving does not offer animal transportation.