Moving house can be a daunting task. It involves not just logistical co-ordination and emotional stress, but can also have an impact on the wellbeing of everyone involved – including our beloved pets. Moving with pets requires special attention to ensure their comfort and safety throughout the process. Here are some essential tips for a pet-friendly house move to help our furry and feathered friends through this transition.
Things To Avoid When Moving House With A Pet
When embarking on a pet-friendly house move, it’s just as crucial to know what not to do as it is to understand the essentials. Here are some key “don’ts” to help make your move as stress-free as possible for your furry pals.
Don’t Overlook Their Needs
Amidst the hustle and bustle of packing, don’t forget about your pets’ daily needs. Regular feeding, exercise, and affection are crucial for their emotional wellbeing. Ignoring these needs could result in increased stress and anxiety for your pet.
Don’t Let Them Roam Free On Moving Day
While it may seem kind to give your pet the freedom to explore on moving day, this can be dangerous. Unfamiliar faces and open doors can lead to accidents or escape attempts. Instead, set up a safe and quiet space away from the chaos where they can feel secure.
Don’t Rush the Transition
Once in your new home, don’t expect your pets to adjust immediately. Just like us, they need time to adapt to new surroundings. Be patient, keep their routines consistent, and gradually introduce them to new areas of the home and neighbourhood.
By avoiding these common mistakes, you’ll be ensuring a smoother, more comfortable moving experience for your beloved pets. Remember, patience and understanding go a long way in helping them adjust to their new home.
Preparing Your Pet For The Move
Schedule a Vet Visit
Before you start the move, it’s crucial to schedule a vet visit. You want to ensure your pets are in good health and are ready for the journey. This is also a good time to discuss sedation options if your pet is anxious or stressed about travelling.
Update Pet IDs and Microchips
Make sure your pet’s ID tags and microchips are updated with your new address and contact details. This is essential in case your pet gets lost during the move.
Pack A Pet Essentials Bag
Just like you would pack an essentials bag for yourself, do the same for your pet. Include food, water, toys, a leash, and any medication they may need during the journey.
Making The Move Comfortable For Your Pet
Keep Them Comfortable And Secure
During the actual move, keep your pet in a secure, comfortable, and well-ventilated carrier. Familiarize them with the carrier before the move to help reduce stress.
Maintain Routine
Try to keep your pet’s routine as normal as possible during the move. Feed and walk them at the usual times, and try to give them plenty of attention to reassure them.
Take Breaks
If you’re driving, take regular breaks to let your pet stretch and relieve themselves. Just be sure to keep them leashed so they don’t run off in an unfamiliar area.
Settling Into Your New Home
Create A Safe Space
Once you’ve arrived at your new home, create a safe space for your pet with their bed, toys, and some of your clothing items for comfort. This can help them adjust to the new surroundings.
Explore The Neighbourhood Together
Help your pet get accustomed to the new environment by exploring the neighbourhood together. Start with short walks, gradually extending them as your pet becomes more comfortable.
Keep Indoors Initially
For the first few days, keep pets indoors to prevent them from getting lost. If you have a cat, make sure all windows and doors are secure to prevent them from sneaking out.
Register With A Local Vet
Don’t forget to register with a local vet. Ensure you have their contact details handy in case of an emergency.
Moving with pets can be challenging, but with adequate preparation and patience, you can ensure a smooth transition for you and your furry friends. Remember, pets are sensitive to changes in their environment, so keep them reassured with love and attention throughout the process.
A happy pet makes a happy home, so it’s worth the extra effort to keep your pets comfortable and secure during the move.
A Smooth, Stress-Free House Move
Moving house with pets doesn’t have to be stressful. Following the above tips and partnering with a professional furniture removalist team like Giffen Removals, can ensure a smoother and stress-free pet-friendly house move.
Save time and money – take advantage of Giffen’s furniture prepacking, storage or removal services, so you can focus on keeping your pets comfortable and secure during your move.
Call Giffen Removals today and ask for an obligation free quote on our affordable professional furniture removal and storage services.
