Relocating can be an exciting time, but it can also involve some stress and disruption. For animals, moving house can create anxiety, manifesting as behavioral changes. Depending on your pet, this adjustment period can range from a few weeks to a few months. Patience is key, along with these other tips to help support your pet.
Create a Safe Haven
Before moving, designate a room in your current home where your pet won’t be disturbed with a sign on the door notifying others that your pet is to be kept here. This is important when hiring a company to arrange storage box rentals or similar services, which may involve having people in your home that your pet is not used to. Use storage boxes to pack up the majority of items in the room, leaving a secure, clutter-free “den”. Remove any hazardous items or substances, and place your pet in the room along with:
- Fresh drinking water
- Food
- Bedding
- Toys
- Litter trays or puppy pads
It can also help to add an item with your scent on it. When adding these items, take care not to use anything that could be accidentally ingested, and check on your pet periodically to reassure them.
Cat Tips
Cats instinctively hide when stressed, so introducing a carrier early on gives them somewhere to retreat to. Placing treats, toys, and even place meals inside helps to make a positive association with the carrier. On moving day, place inside the room with the door open.
Visit Your Vet
Make and budget for vet appointments in advance, as these can involve long waiting periods or medical costs. Inform your current vet of the move and ask about:
- Paperwork updates, including tests and vaccinations.
- Any medications your pet might need.
- Health checks (especially for pets with chronic conditions)
- Microchipping (essential in case your pet goes missing)
- Pheromone products (these can help reduce stress in pets)
- Health certificates (especially when travelling internationally or across state lines)
Travel Tips
If your move requires air travel or a hotel, check company policy to ensure your pet is allowed. Regardless of restrictions, all hotels and airlines must allow service pets.
Settling In
Once you have arrived, place your pet in one room so that they can be gradually introduced to their new home. The needs of your pet will vary depending on species and temperament, for example:
- Cats: Place the open carrier in the room along with their litter-tray and other essentials so they have time to emerge as they feel more confident.
- Dogs: A leashed walk around the neighbourhood can help them acclimatise to new sounds and smells while helping them release stress through exercise.
Throughout this process, try to stick to your pet’s routine and keep your stress to a minimum: animals can be sensitive to the emotions of their owners. Spending time with your pet can also help boost oxytocin for animals and owners alike, helping to reduce stress.
Try to take a moment to breathe and envision yourself happily settled into your home with your new pet. This can help calm you, and it’s also a reminder that like all major life changes, moving house is only temporary, and at the end there will be a home you and your pets can enjoy.