Moving Your Pets

There’s no doubt that buying a home and moving is stressful for you, but it can be even more overwhelming for your pet. The disorganization and chaos of packing and moving can send your furry one disappearing under the bed or even worse, having an accident on the carpet or running out the door.

While pets such as gerbils, fish, and hamsters will adjust to the transition and new location with ease, other pets like dogs and cats take more effort and patience to move. It takes some planning to help your pet adjust to their new home and surroundings, but with patience, effort, and love, your pet will be feel right at home in no time.

Before the move

Pets are creatures of habit, so they thrive on daily routines. Prepare your pet by sticking with their regular routine every day until you move. This includes walks, naps, play time, and feedings. Give them their normal food and avoid giving them too many treats as this can upset their stomach. You want the routine to be familiar to them, as this familiarity lessens the stress of moving a great deal. If you are moving to a different time zone, slowly change your pet’s feeding and sleeping schedule a few weeks in advance before you move.

It’s a good idea to tour the new home with your pet before you move in so that they can become familiar with the property. Prepare a separate box with food, medicine, water and other essentials your pet will need. Bring copies of your pet’s up-to-date medical records with you.

Don't wash your pet's toys or blankets before the move. The familiar smell will help to comfort your pet in the new home. Also, be sure to order new ID tags for your pet that have your new address on them. If you need a carrier, purchase a sturdy and comfortable transport carrier for them and familiarize them with it before the move.

During the move

The best thing you can do during the move is to keep your pet away from the chaotic environment. You can have a friend or relative watch your pet in their home, or you can put them in an empty room in the old or new house while you’re moving. The room should have plenty of food and water. You could also board your pet at a professional kennel or hire a pet sitter.

After the move

Make sure that you new home is escape-proof by walking through and checking for unlatched gates, windows that are open without screens, or any other ways that your pet may be able to get out. Also be certain that your pet cannot get into the family pool.

The safety of your pet should be your main concern. They need some time to get used to new surroundings, so try to make them feel at home with their favorite toys and plenty of play time. Make it a smooth transition for your furry friend!

After you get your pet all settled in, you should check the value of your new home to see if you’re buying or renting for a fair price. Neighborhood IQ offers free home value reports online for your convenience.