This is a guest article from PetRelocation.com
More people are moving with pets these days, whether it’s across the city or around the world. If you’re planning a pet move, it’s important to make sure that you prepare your pet for the move as well. Below are some tips on getting your pet comfortable in its new home.
1. Socialize your pet in advance
If you’ve never taken your pet outside of the house, then a big move can be especially daunting. Many people will walk their dogs around the neighborhood or take them on short trips.
But socializing your pet is not just for dogs. Other pets, like cats and ferrets, can be trained to walk on a harness and can also be trained to ride in the car. Make sure your trips outside of the house are not always going to the veterinarian’s office – if you can take drives around the block or to the dog park and pet store, your pet will get used to unfamiliar places and be more comfortable in them.
2. Crate train your pet to create a permanent home
Crate training can not only help with the actual travel date, when your pet is flying or driving to his new location, but after you move, it can be his home away from home. Begin crate training as soon as you know you’re moving with your pet.
A helpful video on crate training can be found on the PetRelocation website. Once your pet is properly crate trained, he will associate it with his safe haven even when he’s in a new place.
3. Keep your pets restrained for a while
Stress and fear can cause pets to run away after moving. If your house has enough space, set up a designated room for your pet, containing food, water, bedding, toys and, of course, the travel crate. Put a sign on the door to remind movers or visitors that the pet is in the room so your pet won’t be let out and escape on accident.
Keep your pet in this space for the first few hours or days, depending on its anxiety level, with only short trips outside the house for bathroom breaks or walks. Cats who are typically allowed outdoors should be kept inside for a few weeks. If your cat wants to go out to explore, be sure to monitor him while he’s outside. Microchipping or putting tags with your new information on your pets is also a good idea before you let them out into the yard for the first time.
4. Get back into regular habits quickly
Pets thrive on routines and habits. Try to get back into the regular schedule as soon as possible – walks, feeding, watering and playtime will bring normalcy back into your pet’s life after the move.
About the Author: PetRelocation.com specializes in door-to-door pet transportation services worldwide. For more information on moving or traveling with pets, please visit PetRelocation.com.
