Moving Matters
How to prepare your pets for the moving day transition
Making a move? If you have a pet, you have a little something extra (special) to think about! Moving can be a stressful time for both you and your pet. However, with some careful planning and preparation, you can ease the uncertainty for your furry friend. Here are some things to keep in mind when moving with a pet.
General Pet Travel Tips
Since most moves will require some type of travel, whether it's across town or to another country, there are things to consider when traveling with your pet.
First, always use a crate or carrier when traveling with your pet. Using a crate or carrier will keep your pet safe and secure during the journey and can also help reduce their anxiety by providing a familiar and comfortable space. Acclimate your pet to its carrier before the move. Gradually introduce them by placing treats and toys inside and letting them explore it at their own pace.
Pack a separate bag with your pet's food, water, medication, toys, leash, and other essentials. Be sure to keep it handy! This will make it easier to access their belongings during the trip, at rest stops, or once you reach your destination.
Will you be driving, flying, or using another mode of transportation? Depending on the type of transportation, you may need to make additional arrangements or preparations for your pet.
Let's look at those specific situations.
Moves with Your Pet that Require Road Trips or Flights
When you've got quite a trek ahead of you, it pays to be prepared when traveling with a pet.
Hitting the Road
One of the best tips for a road trip is to plan and make sure you have everything your pet needs. This includes packing food, water, treats, toys, and any medications. As mentioned, keep these separate from other moving boxes or suitcases.
It's also important to plan for frequent stops along the way to give your pet a chance to stretch their legs, go to the bathroom, and get some fresh air.
Most importantly, always make sure your pet is properly restrained in the car, either with a harness or a crate, for their safety and yours.
Air Travel
Air travel with a pet can be a bit complicated, so it's important to do your research and plan ahead. Different airlines have different rules when it comes to traveling with pets. Some airlines allow pets in the cabin, while others only allow them in cargo. Make sure you check with your airline to find out their specific requirements.
Most airlines also require a health certificate from a veterinarian stating that your pet is in good health and up-to-date on their vaccinations. Make sure you get this certificate at least a few days before your flight.
Another good tip to remember is that you will need to check in your pet at the airline counter, so make sure you arrive at the airport early to allow enough time for this process.
Introducing Your Pet in a New Neighborhood
When introducing your new pet to a new house and neighborhood, it's important to take things slow and let them adjust at their own pace. Here are some tips for making their new habitat feel like home.
Start with a tour. Take your pet on a tour of their new home and let them explore each room on their own. Keep a watchful eye on them, but allow them to sniff around and get familiar with their new surroundings.
Pets need to feel safe, so as soon as possible, designate a quiet, comfortable area in your new home for your pet to retreat to when they feel overwhelmed. This could be a cozy bed, a crate, or a room with their favorite toys and blankets.
Even with a new move, keep your old routine. Start out with your preferred routine right away and try to maintain consistency during the move. This will help them feel more secure, reduce their anxiety, and also help you avoid training or behavior issues down the road.
Once you feel comfortable, another great suggestion is to take your pet for a walk around your new neighborhood and let them meet the neighbors! Perhaps they'll find new playmates, and you'll make new friends.
Most importantly, be patient; your pet will feel at home in no time!
Moving with Your Pet to a New Apartment
An apartment offers a unique set of circumstances for pet owners.
Make sure you understand the apartment's pet policy, including any breed or size restrictions, pet deposits or fees, and any additional rules or regulations. You might even want to start your apartment search by looking for pet-friendly places. Some apartments have great pet amenities, such as a dog park or pet wash.
Remember that not everyone may love your pet as much as you do. Be considerate of your neighbors by keeping your pet quiet and always cleaning up after them!
Apartment living can mean a lot of time indoors for your pet. Be sure to take your pet for plenty of walks. Walking outdoors will afford them the exercise and fresh air they need to stay happy and healthy.
Pet-Proofing Your New Home
Pet proofing your home is an essential part of keeping your pet safe and healthy. As mentioned, moving can be an overwhelming and all-consuming process. With all there is to think about, make sure you remember to prioritize pet safety.
Here are six strategies for pet-proofing your new home:
1. Keep dangerous items out of reach. As you're sprucing up your new surroundings, keep household cleaning products, chemicals, and medications out of reach of your pets. When you're organizing your new space, devote a special spot to store them, such as a secure cabinet or a high shelf.
2. When setting up your new tech and electronics, check for loose cords and wires. Electrical cords and wires can be a potential hazard for pets. Make sure they are tucked away or covered to prevent pets from chewing on them.
3. Secure windows and doors. Ensure that all windows and doors are able to be locked securely to prevent your pets from escaping or injuring themselves by trying to get outside. Speaking of escape, check that your new place doesn't have any gates, fences, or other areas of egress that might be compromised.
4. Avoid toxic plants. Some plants can be toxic to pets. Research the plants you plan to use in your home and only decorate with pet-friendly options.
5. Check for small spaces. Pets can sometimes get into small spaces, such as under furniture, behind appliances, or in other nooks you might not easily see. Familiarize yourself with the new layout, looking out for potential hiding spots. Make sure these areas are blocked off to prevent your pets from getting stuck or injured.
6. Install safety gates. If you have areas in your home that are off-limits to pets, such as a home office or nursery, install safety gates to prevent access.
Dog-Proofing Tips
A puppy pal can bring a lot of energy to a household. Keep their curiosity channeled by providing plenty of toys for play and for chewing. It's also a good idea to secure your trash cans. Prevent your dog from getting into them and potentially ingesting harmful items or simply making a mess of your new home!
Do you need a doggie door? If your pet is left unsupervised and you have an outside area where they're allowed, be sure you look into installing a doggie door to give them some flexibility and freedom if possible.
Cat-Proofing Tips
Your frisky feline pal may have the likelihood to pounce around while exploring and engaging with their surroundings. Secure fragile items, such as vases or picture frames, to prevent them from falling and potentially injuring your cat or causing damage to precious possessions.
Are you making any new furniture purchases for your new home? Do you have any woodwork or fabrics you want to keep scratch-free? Provide a scratching post. Give your kitty the outlet it needs to exercise its claws and satisfy its innate instinct to scratch.
Ensuring Pet Care in Your New Location
Conduct thorough research on available pet amenities in your new area.
You might want to locate:
Dog parks
Pet-friendly establishments
Grooming services
Pet supply stores
Veterinarian offices and services
By keeping these pet amenities in mind, you can guarantee that your furry friend has everything they need to thrive in their new home.
Also, attend to those identification tags. Update your pet's identification tags and microchip with up-to-date information that includes your new address and contact information. Microchipped pets are reunited with their owners more than 50% of the time (1) It's a great idea to address this before moving day; that way, you won't risk being unable to find your pet if they stray during the moving process.
Another critical component of pet care is ensuring you have supervision for your pet in your absence. Unfortunately, certain circumstances can take us away from our pets for unexpected lengths of time. Once you've moved to your new home, who can you count on to help your pet if needed?
The Pangel™ app ensures that you have a plan in place should you ever have to leave your pet longer than you'd hoped. Set up a guardian angel for your pet to take the uncertainty out of unforeseen circumstances.
Using Pangel™ is as easy as:
Downloading the app and allowing notifications.
Setting up a profile that includes all pertinent information about your pet.
Choosing guardians who will be alerted, should you encounter a situation that prevents you from returning home in a timely way.
Take Pangel™ When You Move With Your Pet
In the midst of moving, keep in mind how the process might affect your pet. Be sure you take into consideration the necessary preparations and precautions to make a smooth transition.
Once you're set up in your new home, make sure your pets are safe. Using the Pangel™ app is the way to guarantee your pet is guarded at all times, even if you're unable to reach them.
"Are You a Prepared Guardian? Microchips Are Important for Animal Safety." PETA, www.peta.org/living/animal-companions/microchip.
