Regardless of where you are moving to; a couple blocks in your neighborhood or to a distant city, relocating can be overwhelming. Throwing your pets in the mix will add to your stress. If you are moving with pets and the thought is driving you nuts, read on for some valuable tips on how you can have a comfortable trip for you and your pets.
1. Talk to Your Vet
Talk to your vet first. Your vet is a significant source for helping you move your pets comfortably. Get copies of your our pets’ health records. Ask your vet for these records, they will prove that your pets’ vaccinations are up-to-date. Your new vet will need this information, also if you need to spend the night at a pet- friendly hotel while travelling to your new home; the health records will be useful.
If you believe in sedating your pet during the trip, then your vet can assist you. Your vet will recommend medications you can use. These medications can be herbal supplement or prescribed medications. Your veterinarian is the ideal person to help you decide on what is best for your pet. Ensure that you speak with your veterinarian before you administer any medication.
Car sickness is another issue you’ll need to consider. Like humans, pets get motion sickness too. Ask your veterinarian about medication that you can use to prevent motion sickness in your pet to make the travel experience comfortable.
2. Packing Essentials
Packing for your trip is another way to ensure minimal stress for your pet. Ensure you pack and have an overnight kit in your car because you may be separated from other travelers or moving trucks. A packed overnight kit must have a bed for your pet, food, required medication and favorite toy. If your pet is a dog take along a leash and include a spare.
The bathroom needs of your pets is similar to that of young children, so ensure you budget additional time for bathroom stops.
Travelling long distance with your cat in your car requires a packed overnight kit as well. Include a portable litter box in your kit. Made from collapsible canvas with zip enclosures, the litter box is travel friendly and won’t take up a lot of space. Check this URL for more safety tips: https://ontariospca.ca/blog/7-tips-for-travelling-cross-country-with-your-pet/
3. Make your car comfy
Arranging your vehicle is of equal importance. Prepare a special place so your pet can feel comfortable and safe when laying down and sleeping during the trip. Dogs usually need lots of human touch. Therefore, if you can place your dog near to you where you can give a pat occasionally, it will make a whole lot of difference. If your pet is a cat, then put the carrier where he is able to see you.
Seat belts are safety precautions for humans as well as pets. Like you, if your pet is not properly secured it will not survive in an accident. If your pet is a cat select a carrier that has a built-in seatbelt loop, if a dog, find an adjustable harness made specifically for car.
If you are taking a dog along on a cross-country move, prepare yourself for making a few additional stops for snuggles and walks. However, if you are moving with a cat, don’t open the carrier too wide; you don’t want your cat dashing out into a strange area because it is fearful or stressed. Whether your pet is a dog or a cat, ensure to pack a few additional treats for your beloved four-legged companions.
4. Understand Shipping Risks
Travelling with your pet may not be best in some situations. However, if this occurs, ensure the safety and comfort of your pet by choosing the transportation means that will ensure your pet’s well–being. While ground transportation might be an option, this can put a dent into your purse and of course may be stressful and even dangerous for your pet. It is crucial that you do your homework.
Air travel is probably the best option if your dog cannot travel with you. While you explore the transportation options, understand that you need to find the safest, more comfortable and most reliable method for your pet to travel. Read more about transporting pets here.
5. Pet-proof your new home
Pet-proof your new home by removing electrical cords and block all nooks that can entrap your pet. Ensure every window has secure screens, get rid of any poisonous houseplants and verify that there are no pest-control poison traps left in the house.
6. Settling In
Once you have ended your long journey and you have finally arrived at your new home, you may be tempted to let your pets loose so they can explore your new home. What should you do if you discover that this new and unfamiliar space is making your pets anxious?
• Begin with one room and allow them to adjust to this room- their ‘home base’. Make certain you include the toys they like best, their water, food containers and- for cats- a litter box.
• As soon as you notice they are getting comfortable, introduce them slowly to the other rooms but ensure you keep the doors closed.
• As time progresses, you can relocate the litter box by moving it gradually a foot forward each day from the ‘home base’ to a permanent place.
Ensure that you maintain your patience as you work to get your pet adjusted to its new home. In time, your pet will feel secure and be contented in your new home.
There is no doubt that moving with pets can be daunting, but if you plan properly and exercise some patience, it will be less stressful.
