Professional movers can move or store all but a few items. However, when it comes to moving with your four-legged friends, the situation is a bit more complex. Your pets require care and attention while you move, or they could have behavioral problems later. Don’t forget that dogs and cats also need to acquaint, adjust, and familiarize themselves with a new place to live, just as you do. So, whether you are moving across the country or down the street, be patient with your pets. To do this successfully, take some moving tips from the pros.
Stress and pets
Pets can develop general anxiety regarding a change in surroundings such as when you relocate. This manifests in a variety of behaviors. Some signs that your pet is stressed out include:
- Soiling in the home.
- Becoming aggressive or fighting with other pets in the home.
- Withdrawing from the rest of the family.
- Change in appetite, particularly eating and drinking less than usual.
However, if you keep your pet out of the busy moving day activities, you can help reduce their stress about the relocation. A solution would be to contain pets in a comfortable room of the house and provide bedding, toys, or items that have familiar smells to comfort them. Use white noise, like a fan or television, to keep them from being nervous about the sounds of movers.
Preparation for moving with your four-legged friends
Before you start packing your boxes, take a moment to think about your pet’s needs. A visit to the vet is essential to ensure they’re healthy and ready for the journey, especially if you’re hiring the pros such as the long distance moving companies Northern VA offers. Updating your pet’s microchip details and securing a health certificate can save you a lot of trouble if you’re crossing state lines. This is also a great time to ask your vet for travel tips specific to your pet’s breed and health condition. Getting these preparations out of the way early will not only give you peace of mind but also make the moving process smoother for your furry friend.
Packing a pet essentials bag
As you organize your move with professionals such as the Fairfax County movers, remember to pack a pet essentials bag that’s easily accessible during the transition. This bag should include all the necessities your pet will need during the first few days in your new home. Start with food, water, and feeding bowls, and don’t forget any medications your pet requires. A few familiar toys can also help comfort your pet and reduce anxiety during travel and initial days in the new environment.
Additionally, it’s wise to include grooming supplies and a first aid kit tailored to your pet’s needs. Make sure to keep this bag in a location that’s easy to reach amid the moving boxes and furniture. Having these items on hand will help ensure your pet remains comfortable and stress-free.
Getting there
When you’re moving with your four-legged friends to a new home that’s a significant distance away, you’ll need to consider the best ways to transport your pets safely and comfortably. This involves selecting the most suitable mode of transportation based on the distance, your pet’s needs, and the available options.
Traveling by air
Air travel can be a quick solution for long-distance moves, but it requires careful planning. Many airlines allow pets in the cabin, but they must be kept in carriers that meet specific size requirements—typically no larger than 21 inches long, 18 inches wide, and 8 inches high. These carriers should fit under the seat in front of you during takeoff and landing. It’s essential to notify the airline well in advance about your intention to bring a pet. This is very important whether your pet is a regular companion, a service animal, or a therapeutic support animal, as it ensures the airline can accommodate your needs.
Contacting the airline
Before booking your flight, contact the airline directly to inquire about their pet travel policies. Different airlines have varying regulations regarding pet travel, including the types of pets allowed, the number of pets per flight, and additional fees. Make sure to get clarity on:
- The documentation required for pet travel, such as health certificates and vaccination records.
- The specific dimensions and types of pet carriers allowed.
- Any additional costs for traveling with a pet.
Hidden hazards when moving with your four-legged friends
Traveling to your new home by car often means you might need to stop and stay at hotels along the way. When your pets are accompanying you, it’s important to ensure their safety during these stops. Here’s how you can manage hotel stays with your pets effectively.
Identifying potential hazards
Upon arriving at your hotel, take the time to inspect your room for any potential dangers to your pets. Pets are naturally curious and might explore areas that could be hazardous. Pay special attention to:
- windows that may be left open or have fragile screens.
- loose fixtures or headboards that pets could knock over or get trapped under.
- electrical cords or drapes that could pose strangulation or electrocution risks.
Choosing the right hotel when moving with your four-legged friends
It’s essential to confirm that pet-friendly accommodations are available before you arrive. Even if a hotel markets itself as pet-friendly, the number of designated rooms might be limited. When booking, specifically ask about:
- The availability of pet-friendly rooms.
- Any additional fees for accommodating pets.
- Hotel policies regarding pets left unattended in the room.
Safety precautions
One can never be too cautious when it comes to protecting your children and pets, and pet owners couldn’t agree more. The following steps can prevent accidents and ensure a comfortable stay for your pet:
- Bring along a portable playpen or crate where your pet can stay safely while unsupervised.
- Keep your pet on a leash when outside the room to prevent them from running off or getting into trouble.
Welcome home
When you arrive at your new home, take time and make an effort to ensure your pet is comfortable and settled. Do this gradually and allow pets to acclimate before you trust them to stay inside kennels, in the yard, or at home alone.
Other ways to create a safe transition to the new home include:
- Limit the pet to one room of the home initially until they become familiar with the scents, sights, and smells of the new space.
- Be wary of open doors, windows, or cracks that could be an escape route for your pet if they become startled, stressed, or nervous. They could bolt and become lost in an unfamiliar neighborhood.
- If you sense that your pet is still having difficulty adjusting to the new home, try pheromones in the air. Pheromones can be plugged into an outlet or used in a diffuser before bringing the pet into the new home to make it feel comfortable.
While some anxious behaviors from your dog or cat are normal, make sure to contact your veterinary provider if symptoms persist. That includes loss of appetite, isolation, or repeatedly soiling on the floors of the home. These could be signs of an underlying medical issue that merits attention.
Training and behavior tips during transition
When you are moving with your dear furry friends, you should try to maintain a sense of routine for them. Even if you’re using a packing service Northern Virginia or some other country offers, try to keep your pet’s feeding and walking schedule as normal as possible. This consistency helps reduce behavioral issues that stem from stress and anxiety.
If possible, start packing gradually to acclimate your pet to the changes around them. This slow transition can prevent them from feeling overwhelmed. Additionally, consider using calming products like pheromone diffusers or anxiety wraps during the more hectic days, particularly when movers are in and out of your home.
Remember, some old training tricks might need reinforcing in the new environment. Be patient and reward your pet for good behavior, reinforcing the training basics to help them adjust. By keeping these strategies in mind, you’ll help ensure a smoother adjustment period for your pet.
Post-move veterinary care
Once you’ve settled into your new home, finding a new veterinarian should be a priority. This is crucial if your move with residential movers in Northern VA took you to a new city. Start by asking for recommendations from neighbors or searching online for clinics with good reviews. Here’s a quick checklist to consider when choosing a new vet:
- Proximity to your home for easy access in emergencies.
- Availability of services like emergency care and specialty treatments.
- Comfortable waiting and examination areas for both you and your pet.
- Friendly and knowledgeable staff who can put your pet at ease.
Scheduling an initial check-up will not only help establish a relationship with the new vet but also ensure your pet continues to receive the best care after the move.
Integrating your pets into the new community
After you’re done using the moving services Northern VA residents trust, helping your pet settle into their new environment is essential. It might be beneficial to explore local dog parks where your pet can socialize and adapt to new friends. Participating in pet-friendly community events can also be an excellent way for both of you to connect with other pet owners. Furthermore, establishing a consistent routine for walks and playtime can significantly aid in giving your pet a sense of stability and normalcy. These activities both help your pet adjust and enhance your understanding of the neighborhood.
Relocate your entire family together with your pets with ease
Relocation is a significant change for everyone. However, moving with your four-legged friends is stressful for the animals a lot more than for humans, as the poor things don’t always understand what’s happening. Following the advice above, from preparing your pets and packing their essentials to maintaining routines and integrating them into a new community, can ease the transition for your four-legged family members. As always, planning and preparation are key to a smooth move. In case all this seems overwhelming, consider hiring a reliable moving company such as Fairfax Transfer and Storage. They can handle the logistics of your move efficiently, allowing you to focus on the comfort and adjustment of your pets. With a little effort on your part and professional help, you can ensure a smooth transition to your new home for your entire family.
