A move with pets must be well planned. This change of environment is a major upheaval in the life of a cat or dog in particular. All of your pet’s bearings will change and it will take a lot of effort for them to adapt to their new home. Here’s how to prepare your pet for a stress-free move.
Stress level depends on the animal species
Not all pets react in the same way to a move. Depending on their species and lifestyle, they will be more or less stressed. Rodents and other small animals that spend most of their time in a cage hardly notice the change of scenery. It is therefore rather easier to move with such pets than to transport a reptile. However, it is best to cover the cage with a towel. Darkness automatically relaxes them and protects them from light and noise.
Cats and dogs, on the other hand, are strongly attached to their home, as they are usually free to move around in this space. Moving with cats or dogs is a stressful time for these animals.
Preparation: Ideally organize an animal sitter on the day of the move. It is very important that the animal already knows this person. Perhaps someone from your family or friends is suitable? You yourself will have many other things on your mind on the relocation day. Remember that you must also properly deregister your dog from the old district! Make sure you have a cage and harness ready for your cat. If the transport takes longer, the cat must be able to stretch its legs. Also look up the telephone number of a vet in the new area. It’s better to be prepared.
Meow: A smooth transportation
All animals should be transported in a suitable carrier: as well as the transport of your fishes. It is important that there is no risk to all passengers during transport. It can happen that you suddenly have to use the brakes.
To keep the stress for your four-legged friends as low as possible, make sure that they are surrounded by familiar things like favorite toys and blankets. A familiar food bowl with their regular food and a few extra treats also have a calming effect. For small animals it is best to cover the cage with a towel. The darkness automatically relaxes them and protects them from light and noise.
Fill a few bottles of water from the old apartment and take them along. It can happen that animals do not tolerate unfamiliar water well and have stomach problems. So the change is not quite as radical if you can get your pets used to the new water bit by bit.
Allow sufficient breaks during the journey. Not only humans but also animals have to get some fresh air and stretch their legs. In between, always check how your pet is doing and if it has enough to eat and drink.
If you have an exotic pet, e.g. a poisonous snake, a spider or an attack dog, you must observe the registration requirement. Ask your local council whether the obligation to register is necessary. In any case, you should make sure that you can move in with your pet in your new home.
Tip: Of course, it is perfect if your pet stays with friends before the move and you pick it up once the move is complete. This also means less stress for you. If this is not possible at all, you can consider placing your pet in an animal boarding house for a few days. This can be expensive, but you can be 100% sure that your little darling is in good hands and well looked after.
Everything’s new: time to get accustomed
Ideally, a room in the new home is ready for your pet and the usual sleeping place for your four-legged friends can be provided. It is best to put the cat tree in the corner as soon as possible. Familiar things make getting used to the new environment much easier. Be there when your pet explores the new habitat. If the renovation work is still in full swing, you must be careful that paint pots and other sources of danger are not standing around.
Cats take quite a long time to get used to a new environment. They should only stay inside the apartment or house for at least four to five weeks. Only then can you leave them on your doorstep with a clear conscience. It’s a little easier with dogs. If you go for a walk with them, you can get to know the neighborhood together – the dog will quickly find its way around.
Prepare for all circumstances when moving with animals
If your pets get lost, it is advised to leave the new address to the neighbors of your old place. Especially if you haven’t moved very far away, it can happen that cats and dogs appear at the old home. And, remember – your dog is taxable and must, therefore, be registered in the new district. For now: Happy settling in the new place!
