Moving the family takes a great deal of preparation to ensure that everyone is ready. A change in environment is not only unsettling for young children, but also for pets, who are just as much a part of the family. The last thing you will want on a busy moving day is a nervous, uncontrollable pet, and taking an animal to an unfamiliar location will only aid in the animal’s uncertainty and anxiety. Fortunately, there are plenty of things you can do to make moving with a pet easier for both you and your four-legged family member.
A little preparation can go a long way when it comes to moving. As such, see if you can arrange a visit to your new home location with your pet before your moving day. This is a great way to introduce your pet to his new environment and help him get acquainted. Many pets acquaint themselves using their sense of smell, so see if you can place your pet on a leash and let him sniff around to familiarize himself. It is a good idea to let your pet explore both the inside and outside locations to maximize his familiarity and reduce the risk of nervousness or anxiety once your moving day arrives. Additionally, see if you can designate a room or section of the house for your pet. This does not mean devoting an entire bedroom to your pet, but you can choose a hallway or corner of a room for your pet to frequent. On your preliminary moving trip, bring a couple of your pet’s favorite toys or his bed. Once you are inside, place these items in your pet’s designated spot and let him spend a few minutes relaxing or playing in that area. This can help your pet learn where his acceptable areas are and can help relax him.
On your moving day, bring your pet to your new home before you begin moving your belongings in, if possible. Arranging for a family member or friend to stay with your pet can be a good idea, since it can ensure that your pet is not left alone and has ample water and food throughout the day. Bringing your pet to his designated area is a great way to keep him out of harm’s way and ensure he stays relaxed in a familiar area with his favorite toys.