DEAR BOOTSIE: My husband and I are very excited to have bought our first home. We�ve only just started to pack, but our animals seem to have sensed the change coming and are anxious already. How can we reduce their stress about our upcoming move?
DEAR MOVIN�: Congrats on your new home! While I am known for my love of boxes, I must admit that packing and moving make me nervous as well, but I think I can help you out.
It�s is great that you are thinking about your pets and planning early to ensure them a safe move with you. According to the National Council on Pet Overpopulation Study and Policy, moving is the number one reason people give for surrendering their dog to a shelter in the U.S. and the third most common reason for cats. However, by planning in advance and following a few simple steps, you can make the process as easy and stress-free as possible for both you and your furry family members.
The most important thing to do when moving with pets is plan, plan, and plan some more. If your pets� only exposure to the carrier or car has been during trips to the vet, then you will want to get started on slowly acclimating them to car rides. Put the carrier you are going to use on the ground with the door open so your pets can wander in and out at will. Line the carrier with a favorite blanket and toss toys and treats inside randomly throughout the day, so your pets will associate the carrier with good things. To get your animals used to the car, start with short trips associated with good things such as treats and trips to the park, and then work your way up to longer voyages.
A trip to the veterinarian is also a good idea before moving day. Make sure your pets are healthy and up-to-date on their shots, and take their health records so you can turn them over to your new veterinarian. If you are moving to a new state or country, make sure you know the animal transportation requirements, and obtain any health certificates or additional vaccinations you might need. If you pet is especially prone to car sickness or anxiety, this would also be a good time to discuss these issues with your veterinarian and get medications if recommended.
A collar with an updated ID tag is essential for both dogs and cats before a move. The tag should include your destination location, telephone number, and cell phone number so that you can be reached immediately during the move. Temporary ID tags with paper inserts can be bought if your contact information may change. A microchip is also a good investment as, unlike a collar, it cannot accidently come off. If your pet is already microchipped, be sure to update your contact information with the microchip company.
While you�re getting everything ready for the move, don�t forget to pack a bag for your pets! The bag should include at least a week�s worth of food, some local water, treats, medications, poop bags, and a first aid kit. Bringing cleaner and towels is always a good idea, just in case. Cats can generally travel for eight to ten hours without needing to use a litterbox, but it never hurts to bring along a small, disposable litterbox with some baggies of your cat�s usual litter. You should also bring a list of the locations and phone numbers of pet hospitals along your route in case of emergency.
On the big day, keep your pets secluded from the chaos in a safe, quiet room of the house. The activities and sounds of moving day might frighten your pets, so it is important that they be kept in a secure area to reduce their stress as much as possible and to prevent an accidental escape. Be sure to put a sign on the door of their room so movers and helpful friends don�t accidently let your pets out. Pets should be last to go into the car after everything else has been packed.
Just like you, pets need to be secure while traveling in a car. An unrestrained, distressed dog can interfere with your control of the car while driving. Moreover, there have been plenty of unfortunate stories of an already disoriented pet escaping from the vehicle at a roadside stop. Cats and other small animals should be kept in a carrier or crate, which should be buckled in. Be sure to leave enough room around the crate for proper ventilation. Safety harnesses, which attach to any seat belt, allow your dog to sit or stand comfortably, whereas safety gates, made of either mesh or metal, give him added mobility in a restricted area. For their safety, never keep your pet in the open bed of a truck or the storage area of a moving van.
While you�re on the road, pit stops are as important for your pets as they are for you. Plan to stop every 3 to 4 hours to let your pets stretch their legs and potty. If your trip is going to take more than one day, call the hotels you will be staying at in advance to verify their pet policies, and never leave your pets unattended in a hotel room.
Upon your arrival at your new home, immediately set out all the familiar and necessary things your pet will need: food, water, bed, litter box, toys, etc. Be sure to pack these items in an accessible spot so they can be unpacked right away. Keep your pets� regular routine as close as you can to their old one. Your pets may be nervous at first but will settle down after a few days with your help.