While moving to a new home allows you to embrace better things, it can be tough for other members of the family. If you have pets, things become more complex as it can make them stressed out and anxious. However, if you set aside adequate time to prepare and develop a positive attitude, it will be easier for them to settle in your new home.
Here are some tips and tricks to move with your pets free of stress and anxiety:
- Get them used to travelling
If you are moving to a place not too far from home, you may want to bring your cat or dog with you on your visits. It helps minimize their stress and acclimatize them to the new environment. Car trips also help them get used to the movement.
Start by putting them into a crate for a shorter period and provide plenty of treats throughout the trip. You can gradually keep them in the crate longer as they get more comfortable.
If your move requires flying, you may have to find a pet transportation company to handle them. These people have transportation safety practices that will ensure your pets’ safe travel.
- Pack with them in mind
Pets are intuitive and can understand something is up when they notice that you are boxing things up. Leave them a safe space where they can hide or have a sense of normalcy to ease the stress and anxiety they are feeling. You can also look up online for “storage near me” so you can pack your things ahead so your pets will get used to the house being empty months before you leave.
- Ask tips from your vet
Prior to moving, make sure that you have your pets checked by your veterinarian. They can give you an idea of what to do if your dog or cat exhibits anxious behaviour. Take note of the steps to help keep them calm or ask for calming supplements if needed.
- Keep your pets away on the big day
Ask your trusted dog sitters in Etobicoke to look after your pet during your big move. If there are dog and cat hotels around, let your pets stay there at least a day before the house is completely emptied. Just like how people would feel sad about leaving their homes behind, pets may also have the same feelings seeing their favourite furniture being transported. Worse, they may get hurt or slip out the door. As the house is their safe space, it helps that they are away before the big day so they will see a different environment.
- Introduce them to the new house gradually
Changes in the layout of their “safe space” and the different surroundings outside will make them feel confused and sad. If they were allowed to roam around your previous neighbourhood, you may want to put off that routine for a bit later. Instead, take things slow and introduce them to one room at a time. The work involved may be greater if you got new condo furniture in Toronto because they lack the familiar scent your dogs and cats have been accustomed to.
After you get the place decorated, you will need to allow the pets to roam around at their own pace. They will be anxious at first but having you around will make it easier. If you need to, put them on a leash and guide them to the different rooms in your new place.
- Take things easy
If your pets have had friends in your previous neighbourhood, they may miss them, too. You may notice that they will be more lethargic or sad. To help them, take a few days off to help them familiarize the place and make new friends. Shower them with love and attention and soothe their anxiety with cuddles, long walks, and silent times together.
- Return to your normal routine when possible
The longer you put off your normal routine, the greater the struggle for your animal companions. Letting them do their usual things which may or may not involve you will ease the transition for them.
Transferring to a new home is a big move for you and your furry friends. They will need as much time to get used to their new environment but with your help, their fears and anxieties will be easily addressed. These tips are just a few of the things that can help but also consider their temperament. Some pets are more sociable and others have a harder time. Know which one to shower with love and attention to help them feel at home sooner.
