Moving house is an exciting, but stressful life change for you and your family, and this includes your pets. While you’re packing the kitchen and cleaning out the garage, don’t forget that the change in home will affect your pet, and that’s before you’ve even arrived at your new house.
Pets, especially dogs, will not only be feeling a bit anxious about all this new activity, but will also be picking up on your stress, so keep an eye on them and give them lots of reassuring cuddles and treats while you’re packing up boxes.
If you’re moving to a new suburb or new state, you’ll be changing vets, so pop into your vet and pick up your animal’s records. If your pet has health issues, or is old, it might be a good idea to have a health check before the moving van arrives.
If you’re heading into a new council area, don’t forget to register your pets and have their chips updated. Look into this before you’ve popped the tape on the last moving box.
On the day of the move, keep your pets calm. If you’re going to be distracted moving boxes and carting furniture yourself, pop your pets in an empty, quiet room so they don’t become anxious.
Once you’re all packed up and ready to go, be sure to have your pet’s favourite toys, their water bowl and bedding with you in the car, and if the trip to your new house is a long one, be sure to make allowances for toilet breaks. If your pets aren’t used to being in a carrier or the car, practice with a few trips before you make the move.
Once you arrive at your new house, take your pets around the home and give them some time to sniff out the new surroundings. If you’re going to be distracted with moving boxes, place your pets in a quiet space, surrounded by their toys and blankets, and keep an eye on them to make sure they are happy.
Once the removal van has left the building, be sure to keep gates and doors closed, just in case your pets decide to check out the new neighbourhood on their own. No doubt you’ll want to get stuck into the unpacking, but don’t forget to spend time reassuring your best friend. Take your pets for a stroll around the neighbourhood, relax and breath. The hard work is nearly over.
Happy moving!
