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Creature Comforts - Moving with your pet

Moving can be a very stressful time for all family members, especially for the four legged members who can’t communicate verbally. By taking a bit of time before hand, you can make the move less traumatic for the animals in your life.

Dogs like to be around the action so keep yours involved in the packing as much as possible. Don’t lock him away as the separation will only increase his anxiety. During crunch time on moving day though, have a friend pet sit so he doesn’t get lost in the shuffle.

Keep to your dog’s schedule in the days leading up to the move. There’ll be enough changes for him in the days ahead so maintain his regular routine including walks, feeding and playtime.

Try to take your dog to his new home at least once before the move. Let him sniff around and become familiar with his soon-to-be new home, both inside and out. Speak positively to him and let him investigate as much as he wants. Once you move in, place his food and water bowl in an area that’s similar to his old house. Give him some toys to play with and, most importantly, give him lots of extra hugs and attention.

Keep a close eye on your dog for the first few weeks after you move. It will take him some time to get used to his new environment. Make sure his ID is up to date with your new address and phone number. It’s also a good idea to keep an extra set of your dog’s identification including current pictures so that if the worst happens, and he runs away, you’ll be prepared.

Cats, on the other hand, are much more stressed during a move. Cats like sameness and changes to their territory can be very frightening for them. Maintain your cat’s normal routine but during the packing process, and especially when the mover’s arrive, put him in a separate locked room (to prevent accidental escape) with food, water, his kitty box and his favourite toys.

Once you arrive at your new home, put the cat (in a carrier large enough to hold food, water and a small litter box), in a locked room with at least two doors between him and the outside. Open the door to his carrier and let him decide when he wants to come out. If he runs for cover when you open the door, give him a few more days and then try again. If your cat is an outdoor cat, only let him out on a harness or a leash for the first few days. After he’s had a couple of controlled outings, you can begin to let him out on his own. And just like your dog, make sure your cat’s ID is up to date and you have recent pictures, just in case.

Just a little bit of planning before hand can lessen the stress on the critters in your life and make your move a less traumatic experience for every member of your family.