Rolling Over: A Pet Owner’s Guide to Moving Homes
With all the stress that accompanies househunting (and eventually moving), our pets can often get lost in the shuffle. But this chaotic experience can sometimes pose a danger to our resident non-humans - for example, cats will often become alarmed and try to run away. If you want to protect your family during this time of upheaval (animals included), you may need a few extra precautions.
Checking Ahead
If you consider your pet to be a member of your family, you may have chosen a property that’s comfortable for them too. For outdoor pets, like dogs or cats, fences or walls are often non-negotiable. You may also have chosen a home that isn’t carpeted to prevent difficult cleanups after accidents or one that has an area that makes it easy to bathe them when the need arises. Before you make your move, it’s worth checking on these features beforehand, to avoid any unwanted incidents on the day.
Prepare for Transportation
If your pet isn’t accustomed to long journeys, a move can prove to be a traumatic experience for them. Allow your pet to become comfortable with its restraints a week or two in advance based on the mode of transport you intend on using. A long road trip with a dog can be made easier with the use of car seats, harnesses, and other specially designed tools to prevent any endangerment to the driver. If you’re planning a plane ride, familiarize your pet with its carrier long before moving day arrives.
Stick to Old Routines
A surefire way to help your pet feel more relaxed during the journey is to maintain their feeding times and toilet breaks. If your pet is used to having a steady supply of water, keep a bowl next to them in your vehicle or in their carrier. A no-spill travel bowl will provide additional comfort while keeping their surroundings dry and clean. If your pet has a special attachment to any of its toys, keeping these close by will be helpful in negating any feelings of distress.
Relieve Their Stress
As its owner, you know your pet better than anyone else, so it should be easy for you to notice whether they’re feeling a bit out of sorts, but if you can’t be there to keep an eye on them, it’s best to charge one member of the household with the animals’ care. They will be able to put in all the necessary extra effort that is required to ease the transition with little confusion around feeding, potty, or playtimes.
Don’t underestimate the impact that moving to a warmer climate has on your pets. Higher temperatures are far more difficult to deal with if you have a thick coat of fur on at all times - as your pets do! A cooling mat is a simple fix. Be sure to select an option that amply accommodates your pet’s size, while still being durable and easy to clean. The material of the mat should also be selected depending on the breed of your pet.
To prevent fear and panic, it may also be necessary to isolate your pets to a single room in your new home before easing them into exploring the entire property. This is especially important if your pets are outdoor animals, since they may try to escape if they feel threatened by unfamiliar surroundings.
Moving is a strange experience for humans and animals alike, but if you go the extra mile to give your pet the support it needs, the process will be far easier for everyone. By giving your furry companion a little extra love and attention, you’ll both be well on your way to making your new house a home.
I started Luxury & Beach Realty to share my wealth of knowledge on the St Petersburg area with those looking to find and purchase their new homes with little hassle. During the 15 years I’ve spent in this role, I’ve also gained expertise on how to market the property you’re looking to sell to its full potential. Learn more, at: www.stpetersburghouses.org
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