There are a lot of things to consider when you move, but something we often forget that our pets have a hard time adjusting to.
Helping your pet is essential during the process of moving. Packing and shifting to a new place is a taxing task, and it's not just you who hates it; it is your pets too.
It takes a toll on them, and the experience on its own is stressful. However, there are ways you can help your pet and make it easier on them.
There are many ways you can help your pet adjust to your new home with you! You can plan ahead by taking these steps.
Step 1: Helping your Pet
Help them Get used to the mess.
It is essential to make your pet get used to the packing process. There might be a lot of getting used to. There are boxes, bubble wraps, tapes, openers, scissors all around the house, and many unsettling things.
Many cats get upset with loud noises and displacement, and dogs, too, have a similar pattern. You need to make sure your pet is gradually introduced to all these items, and it does not induce anxiety for them. You also don't want them to start playing with boxes and materials as they might rip and damage things.
Make use of treats
You can get these items earlier, so your pet has time to get used to them being around. Additionally, during this time, it is recommended that you make use of treats around your pet, so they don't feel confused or isolated.
Treats can be a source of relaxation for your pet. You can also use some positive energy to let them know that you are there for them during the messy packing phase.
Step 2: Ease Your pet during the process
Give them Love and Affection.
Packing and moving is a chaotic task that nobody likes. It can wreak havoc that may steal time away from your fur-baby. A great tip is to not forget to give your pet the time of day. Be sure that you are still making time to play with them, take them on a walk, pet them and do your daily set of activities.
This also makes sure that your pet does not interfere during the packing process to get your attention. Many pets, especially cats, will sneak into boxes and play with the packaging to spend time with their owners.
You can also ask your other family members to help with your dog and cat while you attend to the packing. Once you give them attention, try to keep them away from the packing process, so they aren’t unsettled by it.
Familiarize the new place
Another way you can ease your pet during the move is to familiarize them with the new place. This is especially an advantage for people who are moving close by or within the same city. Even if your place is empty, you can take your pet there, so they can explore the place at their own pace.
Your dog or cat might sniff around, climb on different places and get comfortable with the area. You can repeat this activity two to three times before you actually move in. This will help warm them up to the new home before moving in and avoiding unnecessary stress.
Step 3: Help Your Pet adjust.
Helping your pet to adjust during the move is an important factor. It is something we definitely need to attend to, even if it can all get a little chaotic at times.
Recreate Old routines at the new place
It is important to recreate some older routines in your new place. You might be noticing your pet getting stressed out! They might be less social and a lot more isolated.
A great thing to do is having a similar routine. Feed them at their regular hours, and take them out on walks when they usually would go. This way, they can familiarize themselves with the area around your new house and feel more comfortable.
Similar patterns help create a feeling of comfort, and you can continue that for the first couple of weeks until your pet settles in. This will make the move a lot easier to handle for your pet.
Use stuff from the old house
Another great tip is to use items that they loved from the old house. Try keeping the same feeding bowls, blankets they are familiar with, or their favorite chew toys.
You can also bring along their old scratch posts, beds, and other things that they use. You may want to leave them behind, but it is a great way to help them adjust to the new place without getting anxious.
You can also keep larger pieces of furniture that they enjoy or interact with. This can be an old chair or table that they like. Once they understand the new place, you can always shift out these items from your house.
The point is to make the move a gradual one. Instant changes in the environment and things can be anxiety-inducing for the pet.
Give extra love
All pets love the love and attention of their owners. It makes the bitterest of experiences better for them. Remind yourself to give some extra love and affection once you have moved in.
It is easy to forget, but they might have a more challenging time than anyone else in the house when it comes to navigating new spaces. Try to play with them with their older toys, cuddle or give them a significant time of the day. It helps create a peaceful and comforting environment that they, too, can enjoy.