Moving Checklist: Guide to Moving With Pets

Moving is not only grueling for the family but for pets as well. Pets are very strikingly sensitive by nature. They go by their set routine once they get adapted to it. They are only comfortable in the warmth, homely aroma and comfort of their respective homes. They can hardly adapt to a changed environment as they might feel unsafe or threatened by the unfamiliar surroundings. They certainly won’t remain passive to the move. Their reactions depend on a number of factors, such as their breed, age, mode of transportation and the connectivity and attachment with their owners.A checklist specially made for moving your dog, cat, parrot or any exotic pet to a new environment is of vital importance. Humans can express their stress or worries or discomfort in a comprehensive manner. But animals cannot do so, at least it is difficult for us to grasp their pain or stress through their sounds alone. So, you should make special arrangements to take care of your sensitive pets during the move. You can take the guidance from a vet or check with the animal control agency in the new area.

Here is a checklist of the technical items that you should keep handy:

• Recent health records

Make sure to preserve the record of your pet’s health. If you do not have one currently, you can visit your current vet and get it. This shall help you take your pet to any new vet.

• Tag with your contact info

In case your pet wears a collar, make sure it has a tag with your contact info that might include your name, contact number, new address, and the pet’s name as well.

• Updated health certificate

It is mandatory for dogs and might be required for cats, birds or other pets.

• Permit

It is vital if your pet is exotic or rare.

• Recent snapshot

This acts as a prominent element in unfortunate events such as your pet goes missing while the moving process.

• Sturdy pet carrier

It might seem frivolous but if you care for your pet, follow it. Even if your pet is transported through your car, a well-built and spacious carrier is a safety measure for your pet. It is all the more vital if your pet is small or a newborn. You can put a cozy blanket or shawl inside to let it enjoy a “home-like” sleep.

On a more personalized note, here are certain basic relocation tips to pacify your dearest pets:

• The right time to show your love

Pets are in the greatest need of attention in the “moving” scenario. They feel reckless and confused just like humans but fail at expressing the same. You being the owner, your pet shall look up to you to give it enough love and affection at such a time. They cannot adapt to changes easily. It might take months for them to get used to their new home. However, with unconditional love, you can make them feel “at home” and as a result, they feel stress-free. Play with them whenever you get time to assure them that you are still the same old loving owner!

• Give a visit to your new home

In case you are moving locally, take the advantage of giving a visit to your new home just prior to shifting. You can do away with the massive initial shock of your pet by making him slightly familiar with your new place. Especially with the entire family stepping into your new residence, your pet will feel secure and will be at ease. It shall even be applicable for the infants or little kids in your family.

• Keep them away from the mess

One big “no” is for your dog to roam about freely amidst the humongous mess of your home. This should never be allowed in the preparatory phase of shifting. This might get your pet worried or confused. It is a smarter idea to keep them in a separate room and look after their needs regularly. They might manifest signs of behavioral changes due to the change in their surroundings. You might even considerleaving them with an animal friend with a responsible neighbor or a reliable friend till the items are all loaded by the hired moving team.

• Mode of transportation

You should be aware of the fact that pets fall in the category of the industrial term “non-allowable items”. It implies that relocation companies shall not relocate them. So, either you can move your pet with your own vehicle or hire reliable and specialized pet transportation services. A professional moving company is reliable. However, you can do a bit of background research to assure the safety of your beloved pet.

Those who are expert pet carriers, they will ensure that your pet is taken good care of. It is their responsibility to ensure a safe arrival of your pet to your new home. You can talk to them regarding certain handling tactics that you personally know as an owner. Also, do not forget to exchange phone numbers with the expert representative in case of some urgency.

• Deal with its anxiety

Your pet might manifest signs of separation anxiety that is typically identified by excessive barking or meowing (for dogs and cats), appetite loss, phobia of being alone etc. So, avoid leaving it alone. Spend more time with it, engaging them in entertaining games. They should be made well-accustomed to the new home and its
compound.

• Maintain cleanliness of your new home

Especially, dogs and cats have much an advanced sense of smell as compared to humans. They might be shocked not to find a similar smell in the new home. Moreover, they can easily figure out any traces of other pets who might have lived before in the house. This might make them behave in a peculiar and unfriendly way. They might even follow certain territorial markings! On your part, you can make sure to clean the place thoroughly.