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Moving with Pets: Your Essential Guide to a Stress-Free Move

Moving with Pets: Your Essential Guide to a Stress-Free Move

Moving is one of life's most thrilling yet terrifying experiences. The thrill of a new home, the promise of a fresh start, coupled with the delight in (or perhaps stress over) rearranging all your belongings yet again.  But wait, there's more! If you're a proud pet parent, you get the bonus of navigating this rollercoaster with your fur baby (or babies) in tow. Lucky you. But let's face it, moving with pets can be like herding cats or wrangling a pack of over-excited dogs at the park. This challenge requires patience, a sense of humor, and a glass (or two) of your favorite soothing beverage. After all, our beloved pets have a unique talent for turning simple tasks into chaotic adventures. Luckily, you’ve found the ultimate resource for relocating with pets.  This comprehensive moving guide covers everything from pre-move preparations to settling into your new home with your furry, feathered, or scaly companions. It should help you conquer the chaos and make your residential move with pets a smooth and stress-free experience. Let the adventure begin.  close up photo of a dog

Preparations for Moving With Pets

  • Research your new home and community

Before you embark on your exciting moving adventure, check whether your new home and neighborhood are pet-friendly. 
  • Check any local regulations or restrictions for pet ownership, such as breed-specific legislation or leash laws. 
  • Explore the neighborhood for pet-friendly amenities
  • Inquire about pet policies if you're moving into a rental property or a community with a homeowners' association
  • Consider how your new home's layout will affect your pet's routine. Will there be enough space for your Great Dane to stretch its legs? Is there a secure area for your cat's litter box? 

  • Visit your vet

Before moving with pets, visit your vet for a thorough check-up. Your vet can provide helpful advice and medication to help your pet cope with the changes ahead. Besides, ensure your pet's vaccinations are up to date, as some states or countries may require specific vaccinations upon arrival. If you're moving internationally, please request a copy of your pet's medical records and any necessary health certificates. You also ask your vet for recommendations for a new veterinary clinic in your destination area. After all, having a trusted professional on speed dial is always good when Fido decides to snack on a mystery plant.

  • Update pet ID tags and microchips

In the chaos of moving, updating your pet's identification is essential. Update the information on your pet's ID tags and microchips with your new address and contact details.  And if your pet isn't microchipped yet? Contemplating it at this moment would be perfect. Microchips last for the entire lifespan of your pet, ensuring your furry companion remains on your radar.  And because they only store a unique identification number accessed by authorized personnel using a special scanner, your personal information isn’t disclosed to anyone who finds your pet.

  • Pack a pet essentials box

Just like you need essentials during the move, your pet does too. Create a pet essentials box filled with everything your pet needs during the first few days in your new home. This may include:
  • Food and treats
  • Bowls for food and water
  • Toys and comfort items
  • Leashes, harnesses, and carriers
  • Medications and medical records
  • Litter and litter box (for cats)
  • Waste bags (for dogs)
Having these items readily accessible will help your pet feel more comfortable and secure in their new environment. Plus, it will save you the headache of rummaging through countless boxes to find Mr. Whiskers' favorite squeaky toy. 

Considerations During the Move

  • The great crate adventure

Moving day can be pretty wild, and your furry friend may feel like they're riding on a roller coaster (minus the loop-de-loops, thankfully). Investing in a high-quality, comfortable crate or carrier is critical to making this journey as smooth as possible.  The crate should be spacious enough for your pet to stand, turn around, and stretch out. Ensure it's well-ventilated and secured. You can add extra padding or their favorite blanket to make it cozier.  Before the big day, have your pet acclimate to the crate. A good trick is to reward them with treats for entering and staying inside. Ultimately, they'll see the carrier as a haven rather than a scary confinement device.

  • Keep calm (with your pet)

Your pet can pick up on your emotions, so staying calm and composed will encourage them to do the same. Do your best to stick to your pet's routine during the move. This includes taking regular breaks for your pet to stretch their legs, sniff some new scents, and do their business. Remember to keep their leash and collar handy. Your pet will appreciate the familiar routine amidst the chaos.

Helping Pets Settle In After the Move

  • Set up a safe and cozy place for your pet

To help your pet adjust to their new environment, work to create a safe and comfortable space for them right away. This can be a designated room or a cozy corner where they can retreat when overwhelmed. Fill this area with their favorite toys, bedding, and familiar scents. This will provide a sense of security and continuity, making them feel more at ease in their new surroundings. 

  • Maintain routine

Pets thrive on routine, and moving can disrupt their sense of stability. Sticking to a familiar schedule provides a sense of normalcy that can help reduce their anxiety and stress. A routine may include feeding time, walks, playtime, and even cuddle sessions.

  • Gradually introduce pets to their new surroundings

Slow and steady wins in the race to introduce your furry companion(s) to new experiences in their new environment. Get started with these pointers:
  • Instead of giving them free rein to explore every nook and cranny, introduce them to one room at a time. Be patient and allow them to sniff around and investigate. 
  • Walk your pets around the area while introducing them to their new neighbors.
  • Be mindful of how your pet may react to new weather conditions and adjust their routine accordingly.

  • Keep an eye on your pet’s behavior

Lastly, monitor your pet's behavior during the settling-in period. It's normal for them to feel a little anxious or stressed.  But what if you notice drastic behavioral changes, such as excessive barking, hiding, or a loss of appetite? Be quick to consult your new vet. They can guide you on how to help your pet cope with the stress of moving and ensure their well-being.  Two puppies

Bottom Line

Moving with your furry, feathery, or scaly friends shouldn't be hair-raising. You can ensure a smooth transition for you and your pets with thoughtful planning, patience, and a sprinkle of affection. And remember, even though our pets can't tell us, they're probably just as stressed about the move as you are! So, keep calm and wag on.  Evolution Moving Company excels at providing a stress-free and seamless relocation experience. We'll handle every aspect of moving with the care and expertise that would make even the grumpiest cat smile. So, don't let the thought of moving with pets make you feel like you're barking up the wrong tree. Contact us for a free, no-obligation quote, and let's partner to conquer this odyssey with your pets proudly by your side.
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Welcome to Evolution Moving. Your trusted partner for moving and packing! As a family-owned business, we understand the importance of handling your belongings with the utmost care and respect. With over 12 years of experience in the industry, we specialize in providing professional moving and packing services tailored to your needs.

Our highly trained team is dedicated to ensuring a smooth and stress-free moving experience. From safely packing your cherished possessions to transporting them to your new home, we go above and beyond to treat every item as our own. We pride ourselves on attention to detail, reliability, and commitment to customer satisfaction. 

At Evolution Moving, we believe moving should be an exciting new chapter in your life, not a source of stress. Let our family help your family make this transition with ease and confidence. Thank you for choosing us to be a part of your journey!

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