Follow these simple tips to allow your pets to adjust during your next move

-Written by Christina Baker

Moving is a hectic time for everyone. There is an endless to-do list and your mind may seem as though it’s in a million different places at once. With that said, it’s important not to forget about your pet as you make your move.

Whether this pet be a dog, cat, fish, smaller animal, etc., helping them throughout the move will impact how they adjust to their new home. Moving may come with its challenges, but don’t let giving your pet a new home be one of them! Follow these tips on how to best help your pet adjust to their new atmosphere. 

Dogs

• Make sure your dog’s health is a top priority during this move. Take them to their vet to make sure they are healthy enough to be included in the moving process, as this will ensure that both you and them have a better moving experience.
• Introduce your dog to the movers! Dogs can be very protective over their family. Make sure you show your dog that your movers are not a threat to them or their family. This will help to calm them down and become familiar with these new people.
• Carry objects that remind them of home! To help keep your dog calm during this crazy time, try to carry a toy or small blanket on you that will help to distract them.
• Since most moving companies don’t handle moving animals, be sure to have other arrangements for them. We recommend keeping a crate in your car to help move them from home to the next.

Cats

• It’s no secret that cats can be very anxious. Help them through the move by making sure they have a quiet place to themselves far from all the moving commotion.
• Be sure to have a crate in the car for your cat when moving. Try to have objects such as toys and bedding in the crate so your cat is more comfortable in the car ride.
• Talk to your veterinarian before the move to check if your cat needs any type of medication to help keep them calm during the moving process.

Fish

• To help your fish better acclimate to their new environment, start by cleaning out their tank the morning of your move.
• Drain all the water out, take any toys out of the tank and clean those as well.
• Put your fish in a secure bag or container with clean water for the trip.
• Once you’ve arrived in your new home, put fresh water into the new tank and put your fish back into their tank!

Small Animals

• Small pets usually include hamsters, guinea pigs, and gerbils, who may also need help adjusting to a move.
• Small pets can travel in their normal cages, just be sure their cage is sealed so they cannot escape during this hectic time.
• Its extremely important to regulate the temperature of their cage to help keep them healthy during the move.

We hope you enjoyed reading these tips for moving with your pets!

TWO MEN AND A TRUCK® is the first and largest franchised moving company in the United States. Let us help move you forward! For more helpful tips and information on moving services subscribe to our blog and like us on Facebook.