Moving With Pets – Tips to Make it Easier for Your Pet
Knowing that cats, dogs, and other animals are sensitive to change, you should brace yourself for serious planning during your local move. Here are some moving hacks and tips on how to handle your pet during the upheaval of relocation.
Before the Move: Plan, Plan, and Plan Some More
Pets know a lot about their owners and notice when you’re stressed out – yes, this includes moving stress as well. It is important that you eliminate room for error and do your best to care about their well-being and safe arrival at your new home. You have to take extra caution and watch how your pet feels throughout the entire moving process. It would be good to start preparing them as soon as possible.
Familiarize your favorite animal with car travel or get them used to pet carriers. Also, try taking it slow with the packing of your household. If you have decided to hire a professional packing service in Seattle, you are postponing that anxiety to the big day when movers come to pack and move your stuff. But if you plan to learn how to pack books for moving or even how to pack glasses for moving because you wish to pack all your belongings by yourself, don’t wait until the last minute. Prepare moving to-do list as well as moving expenses checklist. Plan the entire process ahead of time and try stretching it out over several days. This will give your animal friend time to adjust and minimize the effects of stressful change.
On the big day, contact some of your friends and consider sending your pet away to a friend’s house. If that is not an option, keep them in a quiet room with the door shut. Find a room that is quiet and familiar, and try to make a quick getaway while the movers load up the truck. Prepare plenty of food and water in your vehicle to avoid making additional trips to the market.
Ensure that your pet will love your new home as much as you do, and learn more about the neighborhood. As soon as you decide which among the safest neighborhoods in Seattle you choose for a home, research the local resources about their animal policies, amenities, or special collar tags, but also check the list of dog parks or public spaces where pets are welcome. You can as well make a list of dog-friendly restaurants in Seattle, and know in advance where your beloved animal friend is welcomed. Finding pet-friendly things to do in each Seattle neighborhood will help your animal friend feel more welcome in the unfamiliar environment.
Tips for Moving with Your Cat: Follow Your Cat’s Lead
There is not a single cat in the world that loves change. In addition to that, they are known for being highly territorial creatures who like to spend their time in a familiar environment. This is why you must take early steps to acclimate your cat to all moving nuances and joys of car travel.
When relocating with cats, it is all about minimizing stress and anxiety, so set aside a quiet room to be packed and moved at the very last minute. It will soon feel like their home within a home and help the transition go a bit smoother. Just before the local movers arrive, give your cat a reassuring cuddle and place them gently in their carrier. If you are still worried and care about your cat’s feelings, it can be a good idea to spray their basket or carrier with a calming pheromone or cover it with a cloth to keep it dark and calm. Prepare some food that they like and have it ready in your car or at your new place, including water and some toys.
Moving is One of the Most Stressful Events in a Cat’s Life
Some cats are naturally more anxious than others, and there is a range of cat-specific products to help alleviate feelings of stress and anxiety. If your cat is very reluctant to go near the carrier or stay inside a single room, it might be smart to leave the door open and give them a chance to explore while you’re packing. Cats are curious creatures and fans of cardboard boxes, which you can use to your advantage. If you notice your cat is skittish, grab a favorite toy, play around the boxes, or hide some treats. They will feel included, and any stress caused by piles of boxes and unfamiliar smells will be minimized.
Tips For Moving with Your Dogs: Let Them Investigate
For both cats and dogs, sticking to the routine is essential. Before the move, you should maintain the same schedule for treats, grooming, and bedtime. While you are packing your stuff, try not to isolate your canine entirely and allow them to look around. If you keep your dog crated or isolated, they will be more likely to feel nervous the whole time.
On the big day, make sure they stay isolated in one part of the house. For the road trip to your new place, don’t forget to stash some treats your dog loves, along with plenty of water for the road. At your new place, your dog will most likely want a VIP tour, but don’t be sure the same goes for your new location, no matter if you chose to settle in one among many cool neighborhoods in Seattle. The sooner they get used to the unfamiliar smells of this new environment, the sooner they’ll feel at home. When that happens, all dogs appreciate getting back to the old, established routine.
Tips For Moving with Birds: Travel By Car
The same goes for birds – they are also sensitive to change. You must plan accordingly and minimize the stressful changes in your bird’s world. Visit the vet before the move and obtain all the permits and health certificates if you’ll be changing the vet. Make sure to keep your cool and show no signs of stress, as birds will pick up on your demeanor.
When the big day comes, be ready with water and food for the road. Birds usually enjoy car travel and looking out the windows, so you should get the appropriate carrier for the road. Keep the car’s air conditioning operating correctly or purchase glare guards to keep them protected from the sun. After the move, keep your bird in a quiet space away from the unpacking chaos and keep their energy positive throughout the entire process of your move.
What is the Best Time To Move
With luck, your furry or feathery friend will be easily acclimated to transportation throughout the entire year. Still, you need to be aware of certain season risks that could affect your relocation. Generally, preparation is the key to smooth travel. Some of the seasonal risks are entirely out of your control, but you can mitigate others. Pick a day that doesn’t coincide with a holiday or spring break. Also, consider the weather forecast around those dates and consult your vet, as many animals tend to be sensitive to temperature changes or colder weather.
Moving in Winter: Bundle up, Wipe Down
Cold and windy weather can threaten your pet’s condition. It is essential to pay close attention to the most exposed areas such as noses, ears, and paws that could be at risk of frostbite or hypothermia. If you are relocating to your new home in the middle of winter, your four-footed family members must stay safe from bitter cold and wetness. Keep them sheltered and bundled up, and if you take a break during your travel – don’t forget to wipe all paws with a warm, damp towel before returning to the vehicle. A good coat or a sweater will give them reliable coverage and protection.
Settling In
While you take care of your furry or feathery friend, let Seattle Professional Movers take care of the inanimate objects in your home and relive your moving stress levels. Contact us to find out all about the local moving services we provide.
When the hassle is finally done, try to wait as long as possible before leaving your pet alone and start with short departures if you can. Sit on the floor or a corner of the house or apartment with them. It will help them feel at home someplace new. Some animals are perfectly comfortable within a few days, while some take a few weeks to settle in. Stay patient and enjoy your new home!