Tips for Moving With Pets

Packing and moving by yourself can cause a lot of stress, but adding an extra friend like your pet can bring even more. Outside of plans in place for your own move, there are some important things to think about to plan for your pet’s move, too. Heroes Moving and Storage has years of experience in helping people successfully move and relocate with their families and pets.

Our Virginia professional movers have put together a few tips for moving with pets to help homeowners move their fury, feathery, or scaly friends safely and effectively:

Get the pet used to packing supplies and boxes
Avoid changing the routine to reduce stress on the pet
Keep them entertained
Get in touch with the vet
Keep them comfortable in a place just for them
Make pet-friendly accommodations if the move is longer
Pet-proof your new home

Tip #1 Get the Pet Used to Packing Supplies and Boxes

Many pets find packing supplies fun to play with, and while it can be pretty cute to see them playing around, those supplies are needed. The last thing you want is to worry about buying more supplies. Leading up to the move, it helps to keep the supplies around so that pets can get comfortable with them. They may be curious, and this will give you a chance to watch your pets without ruining any of the supplies.

Put the supplies in an area that is less commonly used and let them be curious.

Tip #2 Avoid Changing the Routine to Reduce Stress on the Pet

Pets like dogs and cats are creatures of habit. Moving can disturb those habits, which can be stressful for the pets. This is why it’s best to keep the routine as normal as possible when moving pets. Feed them at their usual times, and don’t skip any walks or playtime that is normally a part of their daily routine. Don’t forget to give them a little extra love and attention because this process can be a lot on them, as well.

Tip #3 Keep Them Entertained

While the moving checklist will keep you plenty busy, you will want to have something that keeps your pets entertained. Helping them burn off any extra or anxious energy can help keep them calm through the process. There are helpful tools like dog walking services to help you and your pet.

If bored, some pets tend to misbehave. That is not a welcomed stressor that you want to deal with when moving.

Tip #4 Get In Touch With the Vet

When moving with pets, it is important to stay in touch with your vet. They are an excellent resource, and they can offer help for managing pets in stressful situations. It is also important to go over how to switch vets if it is needed. Before moving with your pet:

Double-check that all vaccinations are up to date.
Have the general wellness and health of your pet checked.
Make sure that all current prescriptions are stocked up.
Go over any possible stress-reduction tactics or supplements.
Request a copy of the pet’s medical records and files.
If needed, ask your vet for recommendations for a new vet.
Ask about any additional tests or vaccinations for out-of-state moves.

Tip #5 Keep Them Comfortable and in a Place Just for Them

Keep your pets comfortable, and try to avoid any excess clutter or piles outside that are needed to prepare and pack for the move. If extra space is needed, try to at least avoid taking up the pet’s space. Keep any beds or designated spots clear. This will help to keep them comfortable and less stressed. If their bed or spot is in a room, then try to keep them in that room and out of the way of the hustle and bustle of the move. Pets are able to adapt better if they are calmer.

Tip #6 Make Pet-Friendly Accommodations if the Move Is Longer

Sometimes the length of the move can cause stress for the pets. If you are making a long-distance residential move, then special arrangements should be made to take care of the pets. Also, it will be helpful to research ahead to find pet-friendly places to stop and let your pet go to the bathroom and run around to let out some energy. This will keep your pet in a calmer mood for a long drive.

Tip #7 Pet Proof Your New Home

A new place means new preparations will need to be made to pet-proof your new house and handle any unexpected hazards that might be in the house.

Secure all screens, windows, gates, and doors.
Check any outdoor fences for potential escape routes.
If there is a balcony, ensure that the rails are secure and that the pet can’t squeeze through or jump over it.
All vents should be covered.
Check for any pest control traps or poison that might have been left behind.
Remove any plants that may be toxic or unsafe for pets.
Close toilet lids so that smaller pets can’t fall in and so that dogs can’t drink the water.

Contact Heroes Moving and Storage

If you have any further questions about moving pets, contact Heroes Moving and Storage today. Our professionals are here to help and would love to answer all of your questions.