updated 2/28/19

How to Prepare Your Pets for a Move

Moving to a new city or perhaps a new state can be an exciting experience, especially if you are starting a new job or moving into your brand-new home.

However, animals are different than human beings. All they need is good food, a comfy bed and a solid routine to stay happy, hence moving into a new home can be terrifying for them.

Here are a few simple steps you can follow to make the move more comfortable for them:

Make an Appointment with Your Vet

If you are moving to a new state or somewhere far away, it is integral you take your pet to the vet first.

Your furry friend’s health should be your utmost priority. If you’ll be traveling by plane, it’s a good idea you talk to your vet about motion sickness.

Also, keep your pet’s vaccinations updated (or better yet, titer your pets to avoid over-vaccination) and refill any prescriptions. If you are moving out of the city, ask your vet to check your pet’s medical records.

While you’re at the office, you can also ask your vet if they can recommend someone in your new area. This will help you save plenty of time and effort as you won’t have to worry about finding a replacement.

Be Prepared

Some pets may deal with moving day better than others but it doesn’t hurt to stay prepared.

Ensure you have everything you need to make your pet comfortable.

This includes your pet’s favorite food, water, dry treats, towels, disposable litter boxes and a first aid box in case of accidents.

If you have a cat, consider tossing an old t-shirt in their carrier as the familiar smell will keep them calm.

Pets might not be comfortable with all the boxes moving around and might get frightened.

Consider dropping them at a friend’s house or at least ensure they have a quiet place to retreat from all the chaos with their food and toys.

Additionally, if you are going on a road trip and intend to stay at a hotel overnight, ensure the place is pet-friendly. It’s always a good idea to confirm if it’s okay to bring your pet.

🌟PRO TIP – Animal safe essential oils from animalEO.info are a great way to help your pet cope with the stress of moving. I would recommend diffusing the Transition blend at least a full week before you move and after you move, as well as utilizing the Calm-A-Mile blend during your actual move.

Ensure the New Home is Pet-Friendly

Allow your pet to remain at ease by ensuring the new home is pet-friendly.

Before you bring your pet to their new home, immediately set up their favorite toys, crate and possessions to provide them a sense of familiarity.

It is also a good idea to look out for possible toxic plants.

Place your pet’s belongings, such as bowls, scratching posts and litter boxes in areas that they are used to.

For example, if you keep the litter box in the bathroom in the old house, do the same in the new place.

Before you let your pet roam around, ensure all the doors, windows and fences are secure so that your pet doesn’t attempt to escape.

In fact, in most cases, it is often easier on your pet not to have full reign of the new place all at once. Start slow. Give them a space to explore and once they’ve grown accustomed and settled, you can add another room until they have access to the full house.

These are just a few tips you should follow to make moving day more comfortable for your pet.

What other tips do you have from moving with your pets?