Plan Ahead
Pets can get stressed during a move, but extra care and consideration can make the transition easier.
Unfortunately, moving is one of the most common reasons a pet is given to an animal shelter and the No. 1 reason why a dog is given away. The lack of knowledge about pet care and relocation often leads to people to leave their pet behind.
The experts at TWO MEN AND A TRUCK® offer a few tips to make the move easier for pet owners:
Before the move:
- Remember to update pet’s tags and information with the new address and contact information as soon as possible.
- Visit the veterinarian to get a physical and a copy of the pet’s medical history.
- Keep pets contained when movers are present and while traveling to prevent injuries or runaway animals.
Cats:
- Before and after the move, surround the cat with familiar objects ? feeding and water bowls, toys, blanket or bed.
- Gradually introduce them to the new home by restricting them to one or two rooms at first.
Dogs:
- Slowly introduced to the new surroundings – dogs should be leashed outside until comfortable with the area.
- Consider arranging a friend or pet sitter to come over for a couple hours a day to ease the dog’s anxiety if you are unable to stay home the first few days.
Fish:
- Traveling is the most difficult part of the moving process for fish. Place in bags with a mix of new water and clean water from their aquarium – the less the fish are crowded the better. Put rubber bands around the top and place the bags inside a dark, insulated cooler.
- Let the filter run for a few hours before putting fish back in the tank. Try to limit time away from the normal habitat to less than 48 hours.
Birds:
- Make sure to use appropriate sized carriers for birds. Cover the bottom with litter. Secure the door with a clip from the outside. Keep cool and protected from the sun.
- Bring a supply of old food and water – gradually switching from old to new supplies.
