Moving to a new home can be a stressful experience for everyone involved, including your furry, feathered, or scaly friends. At Austin Moving & Storage, we understand that pets are important members of your family, and their comfort and safety during a move are top priorities. This guide will help you navigate the challenges for those moving with pets so you and your furry friends can get settled in smoothly.

How to Prepare Your Pets for a Move

The key to a successful move with pets is preparation. Here are some essential steps to take before the big day:

  • Visit the vet: Schedule a check-up for your pet to ensure they’re healthy enough for travel. Update any vaccinations and obtain copies of medical records. If you’re moving long-distance, ask your vet for advance supplies of prescription or any supplements so your pet is taken care of while you look for a new veterinarian.
  • Microchip and ID tags: If your pet hasn’t been microchipped, consider doing so before the move. Update the ID tags with your new address and contact information.
  • Research pet regulations: If you’re moving to a new city or state, familiarize yourself with local pet laws and licensing requirements.
  • Maintain routine: To minimize stress, keep your pet’s daily routine as normal as possible in the weeks before the move. Spend a little extra time with them to keep them calm and make sure they know they’re loved!
  • Familiarize with carriers: If your pet isn’t used to a carrier, introduce it gradually before the move. Place treats inside to create positive associations.
  • Consider anxiety aids: Consult your vet about possible anxiety medications or natural calming aids if your pet is prone to stress. This can be especially useful for long-distance or international moves, where your pet could be in a car or a plane for a while.
  • Pack a pet essentials bag: Prepare a bag with food, water, treats, toys, and any necessary medications for easy access during the move. Always keep your pet’s favorite items or blankets with them to ease their stress.
  • Plan for transport: Decide how you’ll transport your pet (car, plane, etc.) and make necessary arrangements well in advance.

By taking these preparatory steps, you’ll set the stage for a less stressful move for both you and your pets.

Moving Day: Keeping Pets Safe and Calm

The day of the move can be chaotic, but it’s crucial to prioritize your pet’s safety and comfort. Follow these tips to ensure a smooth moving day:

  • Secure pets: Keep pets in a quiet, closed room with their favorite toys and bedding while movers are present. This prevents them from escaping or getting underfoot while your movers are transporting heavy furniture or boxes.
  • Use a pet sitter: Consider having a friend or professional pet sitter care for your pets on moving day to minimize their stress. Having them away from everything moving in and out of your home and moving chaos can help keep them calm and distracted.
  • Travel safely: If traveling by car, secure pets in a well-ventilated crate or carrier. Never leave pets unattended in a vehicle, especially if moving during the summer.
  • Frequent breaks: For long car trips, plan for regular stops to allow your pet to stretch, hydrate, and relieve themselves.
  • Comfort items: Keep familiar blankets, toys, or clothing items with your pet’s scent nearby for comfort.
  • Stay calm: Pets can sense your emotions, so try to remain calm and positive throughout the moving process.
  • Update information: If you’re moving long-distance, consider attaching a temporary tag to your pet’s collar with your cell phone number and destination address.
  • Stick to your routine: Try to feed and walk your pets at their usual times, even on moving day or while in hotels as you head to your new home.

By following these guidelines, you can help ensure your pet’s safety and minimize their stress during the actual move.

Settling Into Your New Home with Pets

Once you’ve arrived at your new home, it’s important to help your pets adjust to their new environment:

  • Pet-proof your new home: Before letting your pets explore, ensure the new space is safe. Look out for potential hazards like loose wires, toxic plants, or small spaces where pets could get stuck.
  • Familiar scents: Place your pet’s beds, toys, and litter boxes in your new home before introducing them to the space. This will help them feel more at ease.
  • Gradual introduction: Allow your pets to explore the new home gradually, one room at a time. This can help prevent overwhelming them.
  • Stick to routines: Maintain your pet’s familiar feeding, walking, and playtime schedules to provide a sense of normalcy.
  • Update information: Ensure your pet’s microchip information is updated with your new address.
  • Find new pet services: Locate a new veterinarian, groomer, and pet supply store in your new neighborhood.
  • Supervise outdoor time: If you have a new yard, supervise your pet’s first few outdoor explorations to ensure they can’t escape and to help them become familiar with the new boundaries and surroundings.
  • Be patient: Some pets may take days or even weeks to fully adjust to a new home. Offer plenty of reassurance and positive reinforcement during this time.
  • Watch for stress signs: Monitor your pet for signs of stress or illness, such as changes in appetite, unusual hiding, or digestive issues.
  • Extra attention: Spend extra quality time with your pets in the new home to help them feel secure and loved.

Ready for Your Long Island Move?

Moving with pets requires extra planning and patience, but with the right preparation, it can be a smooth process for the whole family. At Austin Moving & Storage, we’re committed to making your move as stress-free as possible, for both you and your furry loved ones. Our experienced team understands the unique challenges of moving with pets and is here to support you every step of the way.

Remember, each pet is unique and may react differently to the moving process. By staying attentive to your pet’s needs and following these guidelines, you can help ensure a successful transition to your new home. Here’s to new adventures with your beloved pets in your new space!