Moving with Pets: Essential Tips for Keeping Your Furry Friends Comfortable

Introduction

The UK is a nation of pet lovers. We are animal-obsessed, with over half of households owning at least one pet. As a pet owner, it’s natural to want the best for your feline friend or canine companion. Moving house can be stressful enough without worrying about how your pet will adjust to the transition. The good news is that there are many steps you can take to keep your pets comfortable when hiring a removals service and relocating to pastures new. In this handy guide, we’ll outline some simple strategies to reduce the risk of anxiety and help your feathered, furry or scaly pals settle in as quickly as possible.

Relocating with pets: Tips for a smooth move

Moving can be an upheaval for pets, but it doesn’t have to be a stressful experience. To execute a smooth move, here are some top tips:

1: Stick to their routine as much as possible

Most animals are creatures of habit. Whether you have cats, a dog or a rabbit, they are probably used to a routine that comprises set feeding times, naps and breaks to exercise, play and explore. When you move, try to stick to their daily routine as best you can. Having a predictable routine can lower the risk of distress, help your pets understand what’s happening and ease them into life in their new home gently. It’s particularly important to keep up with regular feeding times. If you have a dog, walking them at the same time as normal is also beneficial.

2: Create a comfortable, welcoming and safe environment in your new home

It’s an excellent idea to get your home ready for your pet before you move. Try to create a comfortable, welcoming and safe environment for them. Safety should always be a priority when you have pets. Pet-proofing your new home will help to reduce the risk of injuries, accidents and attempts to escape. It’s also helpful to make them feel welcome and cosy in the new pad. Move their bed, get their food and water station set up and make sure their toys are accessible.

When you move with a pet, it’s beneficial to make sure you have everything you need to hand. Packing a pet essentials kit will save you time and effort when you’re unpacking after the removals van has left. Place everything you’ll need on the first day in a box and label it clearly. Examples include a supply of food, water and food bowls, a few toys, your pet’s bed and clean bedding, a lead and collar or litter tray and some treats.

Plan your journey

If you’re relocating to a different county, region or country, it’s wise to plan your journey in advance and figure out how to get your furry friend from A to B. If you’re driving with your dog, research the route and find places to stop for food, exercise, fresh air and a toilet break. If you need to stay overnight, use the Internet to search for dog-friendly hotels, apartments or cottages. Breaking up the journey is a good idea if you have a long distance to cover, especially if your pet isn’t a big fan of travelling.

International moves are often more complex when you’ve got a cuddly creature in tow. Make sure you’re aware of the rules and regulations for travel and bringing pets into your chosen location.

When you’re travelling to your new destination, make sure your pet is as comfortable as possible. In the car, it’s helpful to add extra blankets or carry them in their bed or a crate if you have sufficient space. Carry a bottle of water and their bowl, a lead and some food with you to make stops hassle-free.

1: Consider pet-sitting services

Packing up a house full of possessions, cleaning and decluttering may make your pet feel uneasy or anxious. If you’re turning your home upside down and your home is full of boxes and piles of stuff to pack, you may want to explore pet-sitting services or ask a friend or family member if they could look after your furry friend for a couple of days.

2: Look for a removal firm with experience in pet transportation

If you can’t carry your pet with you in the car, you’re covering a long distance or you have an exotic pet, it may be wise to choose a removal firm with experience in pet transportation. Research companies, read reviews and investigate specialist removals.

3: Explore the new environment

Moving house is an exciting prospect for owners, but it can also be fun for pets. A new home means different places to sniff, explore and discover. Encourage your pet to explore their new environment, both indoors and outdoors. Go for walks around the house, let them smell every inch of their new home and stroll around the local area. If you have a dog, start getting them used to new walking routes before you relocate. This will help them to adjust and feel safe and content once you’ve moved.

1: Reduce anxiety with pheromone diffusers

Moving often means lots of noise, unfamiliar faces and disturbed routines, which can be unsettling for animals. Using pheromone diffusers in your new home can help to lower the risk of anxiety.

2: Spend time together in your new home

It can take time to adjust to a new home. If you have pets, it’s important to spend time with them once the move is complete. Consider taking a day off or working from home after you’ve moved to provide company and help them get used to the new space.

3: Register with a local vet

If you’re moving to a new city or county, it’s helpful to research vets and register with a local practice before you relocate. If you don’t know the area, read reviews online and ask for recommendations in local social media groups.

Summary

Moving house can be an upheaval for humans and animals. If you’re relocating and you have pets, you may be worried about how they’re going to deal with the move. Some pets may get anxious about new environments and unfamiliar noises and faces, but there are ways to reduce stress and make your furry friends feel more comfortable and settled. Planning ahead, sticking to their routine, creating a safe and welcoming environment in your new home, spending time together and exploring the local area can help. Pack a kit of essentials to make sure everything is ready for them on arrival, investigate pet transportation services if you’re moving overseas or transporting exotic pets and consider asking somebody to look after your pet while you’re packing, tidying and cleaning. These steps will help you execute a seamless move and ensure your four-legged friend settles as quickly as possible.