Since our pets rely on routine, it can be confusing and anxiety-inducing for them when it abruptly changes.
Before the Move
Visit the Vet
Make sure to visit your current veterinarian before your relocation date if you're moving house with pets. For a number of reasons, this may be useful. To begin with, you may confirm that all of your pet's vaccinations are current and that you have all of their pertinent paperwork. If you need to find a new veterinarian in the area where you're going, this will simplify things.
The chance to talk with your vet about move day is the second benefit. Your veterinarian might be able to give some mild sedatives or suggest an anxiety remedy if your pet is really anxious while travelling.
Make Arrangements for a Separate Room or Space for Pets
Choose a room to dedicate to your pet on the day of the move that can be cleared out in advance. Dogs should be close to an enclosed outdoor space so that you can take them out for frequent toilet breaks. Empty the room before cleaning it, and relocate all of the packed boxes to another part of the house. Next, put your pet's beds, toys, water, food bowls, and any litter trays in that area.
Let your pet become accustomed to the space before the move so they won't feel uneasy when they enter it. Your pet won't need to be bothered during the day by the home removals in Kent because this room will already be vacant, which will help keep them quiet. To let your home moving services in London know why they can't enter, keep the doors and windows closed and post a note on the door.
Think About Other Options
If your pet is frightened of loud noises or strangers or has trouble coping with change, you may want to hire a trusted family member or friend to care for your pet during transit. That way, your pet can be in the company of familiar faces without being stressed out by the hustle and bustle of their old home.
If family or friends are not an option, think about hiring a pet sitter for the day or booking a kennel or cattery. Give yourself enough time to choose a pet sitter, cattery, or kennel that you like and trust, examine them, and then visit them. Moreover, you should see your veterinarian well in advance of the move to ensure that your pet has all of the necessary vaccinations.
Be Prepared If You Plan to Drive
Ensure you have everything you need for safe automobile travel if you intend to move your pet that same day. To comply with highway laws, your pet must be tethered securely in your vehicle. Therefore, you'll need a dog seat belt or a secure veterinary-approved carrier to carry your four-legged friend.
If you're travelling long distances or travelling on hot summer days, you'll also need a collapsible travel bowl, food, and plenty of cold water for those all-important breaks.
Take a Stroll Together Around Your New Neighborhood
Try taking your dog for a few walks in the new neighbourhood in the days leading up to the move if you're moving somewhere that isn't too distant from your current location (i.e., within a short driving distance). This will make it easier for them to adjust to new situations in the future by allowing your precious pooch to become accustomed to a unique setting (and a new walk route!).
If you want your cat to be comfortable with the pet carrier before moving day, introduce it to them early. You could even want to take your cat on a few brief practice road trips, gradually increasing their duration so that they become used to the idea of moving.
Let the Home Moving Services in London Know About Any Pets in Advance
All pets moving with you should be disclosed to your moving company upfront. Don't try to keep it a secret if you're transporting more exotic species like tropical fish, reptiles, or amphibians: talk to your home removals in Kent about it! This is also a question to ask a moving company to know if they are also relocating pets. If not, you can hire a pet shipping professional.
If your pet's possessions need to be packed, the moving company may need specialised tools, materials, or expertise. Because most businesses are accustomed to handling requests of this type, don't be hesitant to ask if they have any suggestions for transportation!
On the Moving Day
Use Pheromone Diffusers
Even the calmest pets might become anxious on a moving day since there will be a lot of bumping and banging and a lot of strangers wandering about the house. Use a pheromone diffuser in the room where your pet will be kept to help them relax. Pheromone diffusers, which are imperceptible to humans, contain organic scents that soothe the nerves of worried or anxious pets.
Regularly Check-In
Your behaviour on the day of your relocation will have an impact on how your pets behave, especially if you're under stress. If your pet is left alone for an extended amount of time, they will notice something weird happening and may even start to feel more anxious. If you want to separate your pet while the removal team is at work, check on them frequently so they know you are still close by. Remember that your pet, particularly cats, may become frightened and try to flee the area, so lock any doors and windows behind you just in case.
In addition to giving them a lot of attention, make sure they have access to plenty of clean water and toys that will keep them occupied or relaxed for longer periods of time. For example, a puzzle feeder is great for dogs, while a scratching post will help cats relieve stress (just ensure it's tall enough for them!).
Plan Meals Carefully
Avoid feeding your pets two hours before your move to prevent travel sickness from getting worse. Provide them with little portions of their regular food throughout the day rather than large meals. This will keep them occupied, give them something to do while you're busy, and be easier on their stomach if they do have anxiety.
Leave Your Pet for the Very End
Preferably, you shouldn't move your pet until the house is peaceful, and all the boxes, furniture, and man with a van in Kent are left. So that your pet may be moved quietly and worry-free from one place to another. Before arriving at their new home, dogs will benefit from taking a long walk to calm them down and wear them out; this will prevent your pet from being over excited once they get there.
Make It Cosy
Get a room ready for your pet before they get there by setting up its bedding, dishes, and toys. Even though they might feel a bit off-balance and disoriented at first, seeing all of their possessions will help them settle down right away. Remember that pheromone diffusers will also help in their relaxation in their new surroundings.
After the Move
Stay at Home
Even if it means taking additional time off work, try to spend the first few days after your relocation at home if you can. Having you near will offer your pet a sense of comfort and help the transition go more smoothly. It could take some time for your pet to feel secure in their new home. Start leaving them for longer amounts of time when the time comes; perhaps start with 10 minutes and work your way up from there.
Update Their Details
If your pet has a microchip, you are considerably more likely to find them if the worst happens and they go missing. Notify the microchip manufacturer of your new address and contact information as soon as you move in. Moreover, you should update the id tag on your dog's collar and inform your pet insurance company of your new location.
Be Patient
Let your pet roam freely and explore each space at its own speed and terms. Your pet will need time to adjust to a lot of new sights and sounds, so it's crucial to be patient and never force them to do anything they don't want to.
For instance, if you recently moved into a two-story house from a single-story property (such as a bungalow or high-rise apartment), your pet may be reluctant to use the stairs at first, especially if they haven't done it before. Do not push them to. Instead, encourage any progress they make over time by using reward-based training.
Scan for Threats
You should always ensure that each room is secure and safe before letting pets explore. Be sure that any doors leading to the room you are remodelling or decorating are always closed. This will prevent any curious pets from examining potentially harmful materials or sharp objects. Once the job has been completed, all equipment has been taken out, and the space is suitable for delicate paws, only then can you allow your pets into the room.
Explore the Outdoors Together
The same rule applies outside as it does indoors: before your four-legged buddy ventures outside, make sure your new garden is pet-friendly, fully secured, and free of any poisonous plants. First, take your dog for a walk around the garden while keeping them on a leash. Let them explore at their own speed; they'll feel secure knowing you'll be nearby to provide any needed assurance.
Keep Cats Indoors
It's typically advised to keep cats at the new home after a move for about a week to let them get used to the surroundings since they are naturally territorial. Cats require a little longer adjustment time than dogs since they are typically more anxious after a house relocation. One at a time, take them around each area of the house while keeping a tight check on them (particularly anxious cats will seek out places to hide and may get stuck).
Keeping the same mealtimes will calm them since they will be familiar with the schedule. To help them get used to coming back to their new home to be fed, when you first start letting them out, do it on an empty stomach. When your feline buddy ultimately goes outside, place something familiar in the garden (such as your wellies or some garden pots from your previous residence) so that when they recognise their house by its scent, it will safely guide them home.
Tell Your Former Neighbours About the Move
Cats often attempt to find their previous homes, even if you're relocating a short distance away, in case your pet pays a visit.
If you're concerned about this, alert your former neighbours to keep a lookout for the cat and advise them not to feed or pet him if they do see him because doing so will just confuse him and make him more likely to return. It's usually a good idea to ensure your dogs and cats are microchipped and have identification tags before moving.
If Your Pet Is Acting Strangely, Get Expert Assistance
It's critical to get expert assistance as soon as possible if your pet exhibits indications of sadness or depression. Your pet may have trouble adjusting if they pace, complain, shake, hide, wreck the house, or refuse to eat. Many assistance programmes are available to assist both you and your pet friend.
For instance, professionals and behaviourists are always available to provide free guidance and help handling behavioural difficulties.
Remember to be gentle with your pet and try not to panic. They will require some time to become used to their new surroundings, just like you. Your pet will quickly adjust to its new home and get back to being its joyful, playful self with the correct help and direction accident as they adjust.
Spend Quality Time Together
Similar to moving with children, it's best to try to stick to any routines you may have as much as possible while moving house with pets. If feasible, maintaining consistency and preventing too much confusion involves keeping to your pet’s usual feeding and walking schedules. Last but certainly not least, make sure you spend quality time with your pet to put them at ease.
There will be plenty of activities on your "to-do" list, from unpacking boxes to endless organising, but it's crucial that you still set aside a lot of time for your pet. In the first few days or weeks after relocating, try not to leave your dogs alone in your new house since they can be very sensitive.
Check out the guide for small moves if you are just moving close by or just making a small move with your pet and a few belongings.
Moving Home Tips: To reward any positive or calm behaviour they exhibit throughout the day, substitute a small portion of their daily food intake with treats instead of their usual kibble or wet food.
Moving Home Tips: As soon as you can, get back into your pet's routine by taking him or her on your regular walks, feedings, play sessions, and cuddle sessions.
Moving Home with a Dog:Â Even the most well-behaved dog may have a toilet accident as they adjust to its new surroundings and routine in a new home since moving is stressful. Show your dog where you expect them to relieve themselves going ahead, and be patient with them. Reward proper bowel movements, and if required, go back to your previous potty training techniques to get them back on track.
Top Tip for Moving with a Dog: Pack a bag for them. When you're moving house with dogs, it's a good idea to keep a few basics on hand, just as you would if you were packing yourself an essentials bag as part of your house moving checklist. Everything like water bowls, food, toys, medications, dog leashes, and of course lots of goodies should be included.
Top Tip for Moving with a Cat: Allow for accidents. Even the most well-behaved cat may have an accident as they adjust to its new habitat and environment in a new house, especially if they typically relieve itself outside. Be kind to your cat, avoid yelling at them, and teach them where you want them to relieve themselves going ahead. Maintaining clean litter trays will promote use, so make sure there are lots of cat litter facilities accessible.
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