Moving long-distance isn’t easy for anyone—especially not your cat or dog. Knowing these 10 ways to keep your pet calm during a long move is essential to the success of your relocation. Don’t forget about your furry family members when planning to move.
Don’t expect to wing it the day of your move with your animals. Having a plan in place will save you a lot of time and stress. Plus, your pets will be grateful that you took such good care of them during this hectic time. Find out how to manage your pets and a big move all at once.
Move Your Pets Last
While your New York local movers are hauling everything out of your space, keep pets confined to a single room. Take everything out of that room that you want movers to put on the truck so that they don’t have to enter the space with your pets. Keep water, food, litter, and pee pads in the room with your animals so that they are comfortable. Further, you might include toys and other items to keep them calm.
Buy a Crate They Like
Get a carrier your pet will use so it’s comfortable throughout the move. You may need to buy a new one, so it’ll fit. Ensure it’s safe to put in your vehicle and that you won’t have trouble getting your pet inside.
Drive Carefully
Though it may take longer to get to your new place, you should drive slowly when moving with pets. They aren’t used to being in a car and can’t see what’s happening. Be mindful of bumps and curves that may upset them, and try not to slam on your breaks.
Set Up a Safe Space at the New Place
Be prepared at your new home with a quiet place for your pets. New environments may be overwhelming for cats and dogs. Remember what you did when you first got your pet. Set up a room where your animals can slowly get used to their home. Don’t be surprised if some pets take longer than others to explore their new space.
Tips for Moving With Dogs
Many people own dogs and will likely move with them at some point. Even if you’re used to taking your canine friend in the car, moving with your pet isn’t the same as going on a quick trip to the store. It’s much more involved once you add moving boxes and longer periods.
Maintain a Routine
Dogs require specific care when moving long distances. Keep a routine, so you don’t forget to feed and water your dog. Further, you should make regular stops to ensure it can pee and poop when needed. Don’t forget to include playtime with your pup to keep it active.
Use DAP
Dog appeasing pheromone (DAP) is an odorless product that helps calm dogs. You can use it in a diffuser or spray. It relaxes dogs and calms their anxiety.
Let Your Dog Explore Outside First
Once you arrive at your new place, put your dog on a leash and let it explore the world around it. It can mark its territory, sniff what it likes, and learn the landscape. This helps your pet get acquainted with its new place.
Pro-Tip
Keep the leash on in the house until your dog gets over its initial excitement. Wait to take it off until you calm it down in its quiet room.
Tips for Moving With Cats
Cats are a whole different beast. Both living with them and transporting them requires some different steps. Most people can’t put a cat on a leash, and cats are often harder to get into carriers. For these reasons, you may need to try additional tricks.
Try Feliway
The feline pheromone is called Feliway, and you use it the same as the one for dogs. Before moving your cats into a space, spray it in the room.
Talk to a Vet
Some cats experience heightened anxiety in the car, especially if they are uncomfortable. It’s hard to tell if cats are cozy in their crates; your cat won’t like you forcing it in a cage. Speak with your vet about possible medications you can give it to help it stay calm throughout the move.
Be Quiet in the Car
While your dog might enjoy listening to music, cats need silence in the car. They may cry and whine the entire time, but it’s best not to talk to them; you’ll make it worse. Turn off the music and sit as quietly as possible during your move until you get to the new place.
Reasons To Keep Your Pet Calm When Moving
Your animals should be your top priority when moving to a new place. They don’t have a say in the matter and may get hurt if you don’t give them the time and attention they need. Your cat may have an accident if it gets too excited. It may vomit or become cumbersome. Further, you should keep calm so you don’t traumatize it. Moving should be as positive an experience as possible in case you have to do it again.
Consider keeping your pets calm for safety reasons too. Not only does it keep you and your pet well, but it can also keep your movers safe. Prevent unnecessary bites and scratches by keeping your pets away from your contractors while they may not be their best selves.
Knowing the best ways to keep your pet calm during a long move is part of being a good pet parent. Acquire the proper carrier to put in your vehicle so that you can relocate your pets after moving all your boxes. Remember to drive carefully and set up a quiet room for your pets to enjoy once they get to the new house. Each pet is different and has different needs. Keep your cat or dog top of mind when planning to relocate, and remember to tell your movers about them. Professionals won’t care that you have pets, but it’s wise to let them know ahead of time so they can prepare too. Contact Simply Moving to schedule your move today.
