Moving Home: How do you easily settle a pet into a new location?

Moving Home: How do you easily settle a pet into a new location?

Our pets are lifelong companions. Wherever we go, they're coming too. Moving can be stressful at the best of times, but it’s important not to forget about the little companions you’ve got in tow.

We’ve compiled a list of the top 5 steps to take to make it easier for you and your pet moving to a new location.

Familiarity
 

The no.1 thing to make your pet comfortable is the familiarity of their own belongings and the timing of their routine. If you can avoid that last wash of bedding and towels before you leave, the smell and comfort from them will remain. Wherever you place it, they know it belongs to them. Similarly, if you can continue to get walks and meal times at the same time, no matter what state of uproar your home may be in, this will help immensely.

Identification
 

We all know how our animals feed off of our emotions. When we feel down they can tell and this is the same for when we become stressed. Ensure their ID tag and microchip has been changed in time for your move. If for any reason there's a gap in the garden or a door gets left open ajar and you don’t realise, you know that if someone finds them before you, they’ll bring them back safely. One less thing for you to have on your mind!

Space
 

For the first few days have your pet in one room. This will allow them to become accustomed to their new space without becoming overwhelmed. You know your pet best and you’ll be able to make the best judgement on how long this period should be. Once they show confidence and want to explore, they can be introduced to the rest of the home (this will also give you enough time to have most things sorted without tripping over your kitty or worrying about where they are!)

Attention
 

Reassurance is key for a successful move with your pet. They may not understand what, why or even if they’re moving, so remaining calm and giving them plenty of attention will be positive reinforcement that, although not normal activity, everything will be fine. Create time whilst you pack, not only to give yourself a break, but to take them out for a walk or play so they don’t become fixated on the change in routine.

 Patience
   

All of our tips rely on patience. Changing an animal's environment can be stressful, some animals adapt faster than others but it’s important to allow them to work it out in their own time.

For dogs - Spend time with them on the floor. Come down to their level so they know there's no threat or danger. This will also increase familiar smells in their new space and of course the love and attention will always help!

For cats -  Make the one room to be where your cat would spend most of their time. Maybe a bedroom or living room. The furniture being moved back into the new space will make it feel familiar and once they’ve explored this they’ll be interested to explore the rest of the new home.

These are a few steps to make yours and your pet's life a little easier during this time. One last thing you might want to consider is on your biggest day of moving, leave them with a friend or family member. You’ll be able to put your full attention to moving whilst knowing your pet is completely safe!