Know your pet’s body language<\/p><\/div>\n
Before going into more details on our tips for moving with pets. It is essential for you to be able to recognise the signs of stress\/anxiety a pet can express. Below is a non-exhaustive list of the main stress signs recognised in dogs and cats:<\/span><\/p>\n\n- For a dog: dogs anxiety can result in escaping although it is not their usual attitude. Excessive barking for things that do not bother your dog usually. But also, damaging furniture despite the fact it is not a puppy anymore. Finally, a loss of appetite.<\/span><\/li>\n
- For a cat: cats’ stress can also result in loss of appetite. In addition, cats may urinate in your home while they don\u2019t do it usually.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Noticing these signs is an advantage in responding to the anxiety of your cat or dog before, during and after your move. If you find your pet different than usual and you have any doubt, contact your vet for advice. Now, let\u2019s jump in more details on our tips for moving with pets.<\/span><\/p>\nWhat to do Before Your Move?<\/span><\/h2>\nHow can I make my pets move easier?<\/span><\/h3>\nContact a pet relocation specialist<\/p><\/div>\n
Whether you are moving interstate or internationally, it might be good to contact a pet relocation specialist in advance of your move. Moving pets is not something you arrange at the last minute. Indeed, several measures and papers have to be gathered in order to make the move possible. This is particularly true if you want to lower the risk of stress for your pet.<\/span><\/p>\nCheck The Rules and Regulations<\/span><\/h3>\nIt is indispensable to know the rules and regulations of the location you are moving to. It can either be rules in the new house or apartment you’re renting or regulations in the country you are moving to. For instance, some high standard buildings (such as Meriton in Australia) may have strict policies regarding pets. They are allowed but occasionally you have to follow certain rules that accommodate all the residents.<\/span><\/p>\nWhen you move overseas, pet regulations may apply. For instance, some countries will require specific documentation such as vaccinations, or a vet exam.<\/span><\/p>\nKeep in mind that moving with a dog does not imply the same requirements as moving with a cat or other animals. Finally, do not forget to store all relevant documents somewhere accessible to show them when required, by authorities, for example.<\/span><\/p>\nVisit Your Veterinarian<\/span><\/h3>\nWhen moving internationally and after having looked at the regulations, you may need to visit your vet. In addition, you may want to ask your veterinarian for some advice. Depending on the age and health condition of your pet, they may need a health examination before the moving day as well as medications. If you need to take medications with you, make sure to have enough for the first few weeks after having moved into your new home. This will give you time to settle down comfortably in the new place<\/span><\/p>\nMake Your Pet Familiar With The Crate<\/span><\/h3>\nTo reduce the stress, plan car trips with your pet in the crate<\/p><\/div>\n
If you move locally, this step may not be necessary. However, when moving across the country or internationally, it might be a good idea to make your dog or cat used to the crate long before moving. For most of us, we\u2019ve never (or very rarely) transported our pets in a crate. It is something new and smaller than their actual environment. So to reduce the stress that being locked in a crate can provoke, plan car trips with your pet in the crate. It does not have to be a long trip, a drive around the neighbourhood will work. You can keep the crate open in the room the pet usually sleeps in so that they can walk themselves in and out, making themselves comfortable with the crate. By doing so, you make your animals familiar with a new habitat which will automatically result in a less anxious moving day (for everyone).<\/span><\/p>\nDo Not Include Them in The Packing Process<\/span><\/h3>\nAs already mentioned before, animals are not big fans of change as it tends to generate stress. Besides, when you\u2019re moving, it can be a little bit cluttered with all the boxes you have to get packed for your move. Your dog may want to play or cuddle but you are busy with other tasks. Pets will feel the difference and won’t understand why you are not available. The tip here is to keep your pets in a separate room they are familiar with. This will lower the anxiety. Of course, do not abandon them in the room, take breaks and go play and cuddle with them throughout the packing process.<\/span><\/p>\nWhat Do You Do With Pets on Moving day?<\/span><\/h2>\nKeep a Friendly Climate<\/span><\/h3>\nOn moving day everyone is busy organising your own move, as well as your pets, move. Same as the packing tip, it is recommended to keep your dog or cat in a separate room. It will reduce the stress of having strangers (removal company) going in and out of your home. That being said, don’t forget to check on your pet. It is crucial to let them know you are here for them so as to not have them feel abandoned.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nMake The Crate Ready: Friendly And Comfortable<\/span><\/h3>\nHaving toys in the crate make it more friendly and comfortable<\/p><\/div>\n
One of the keys for lowering stress when moving a dog or a cat is to prepare everything to make their relocation more enjoyable. It is pretty much preparing your own bag when you travel.<\/span><\/p>\nSo make sure to put at the minimum the following items in your pet crate:<\/span><\/p>\n\n- Toys: to stay entertained during the relocation process,<\/span><\/li>\n
- Blanket, rugs or other: to make the crate more comfortable, friendly and feel like home,<\/span><\/li>\n
- Treats: the relocation can be long and it\u2019s nice to have a little something,<\/span><\/li>\n
- Litterbox: if you\u2019re moving your cats,<\/span><\/li>\n
- food and water: of course, your pet will need to drink and eat.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Certainly, tips for making the crate cosier are not limited to this list. You can add all elements you think will make your pet relocation process more comfortable. Be sure to check with airlines as to what their rules\/ regulations are for pets in crates. Many will request that your pet not be fed within 8 hours of a flight as it may cause your pet to have travel sickness. Airlines will ensure your pet has plenty of water up to and during the flight.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n