If you have pets, one of the most stressful parts of moving is dealing with the animals. If you only fish or small pets like hamsters, it’s easier, but if you have dogs or cats, moving is just as stressful on the animals as it is on you. There are ways to make the move easier though, so keep these tips in mind when moving with your furry friend.
If you have a dog, there are a few things you can do to make a move easier. If you’re allowed to, bring your dog with you on one of the times you’re moving stuff so that your animal can sniff around at his/her leisure and get a feel for things. If this is impossible, then make sure that, before bringing your dog in, there’s an area set aside for your pet with all of the things that will make it comfortable, such as a favorite blanket and a new chew toy. Once you arrive at the new place, put your dog in a room with all of its things for a little while and let it slowly become accustomed to the new place room by room, with all of its things nearby. Make sure to set a bit of time aside to soothe and comfort your animal-this is a scary transition for your pet. Take it out to the yard to sniff around and let it mark its territory as it would.
Cats are both a little easier and harder to move than dogs. They are smaller, so they’re easier to transport. However, cats often have a harder time adjusting to change. When you’re doing the move, set aside a room just for your cat with all of its things and let it stay there for a while. Don’t be surprised if your cat hides for a while and only comes out very occasionally for food or a litter box run; cats adjust to change very slowly and do it under their own terms. You can try soothing your cat, but you might get snubbed for a while-your feline will put all the blame for the changes squarely on your shoulders and will let you know that under no uncertain terms! Don’t worry though; eventually, your cat will start roaming the entirety of the home and get used to it and forgive you in the process.
With any pets, make sure that there is a place set aside for it, somewhere away from all of the bustle, and make time to spend with your pet, soothing it back to normal. It will usually take time, but eventually your pet will settle into the new place just fine.
