Relocations come with a lot of stress for all the parties involved, even if the reason for changing homes is as exciting as can be. With the amount of pressure one faces to get everything right, from the organization process to the selection of reputable local packing and moving companies, it can be hard to hide the distress from the outside world. This anxious mood is bound to rub off on not only people around you but also your pets.

Most people don’t know it, but relocation affects pets as much as it does humans. Remember that your furry friend has an entirely new residence to get used to just like you do. Consider all the new things your fur baby has to accustom themselves to from the smells and parks to sleeping spots. The distress caused by this transition can be especially hard on older pets. We table a checklist for address change and how you can make this challenging time as seamless as possible for your furry friend.

Get Them Ready

Cats, dogs, and other kinds of pets are quite smart when it comes to sensing that change is coming. In the period leading up to the big day, they are likely to notice containers coming into the home, and at the same time, possession going out of sight. Make the transition easier for them by letting the cartons sit out for several weeks before putting them to use. That way, they are not met with the shock of all the hustle and bustle that comes with organizing goods and chattels.

Leave Their Possessions for Last

Once the organization process is underway, do not touch your pet’s belongings until it is time up and leave the house. Let them be as comfortable as possible with things they are used to for as long as possible even as the world around them changes. On the big day, organize their items in a container or simply place them in their crate. That way, you can get them settled in as soon as you reach your destination.

Keep Them Away on Relocation Day

If you decide to use an expert team for the relocation process, your dog is highly likely to get anxious from seeing a lot of new people as items that make the surroundings familiar disappear. It is recommended to have your fur baby away from all the action. Consider taking them to their favorite park one last time, or have them stay with their sitter until the process is complete.

Settle Them in Peacefully

Once you get to your destination, there will be a lot needed to be done from unloading to arranging the whole house. Before you can get your hands on anything, take some time to stay with your pet and make them familiar with the new surroundings. Make their crate the first thing you unpack and place it in a central area of the home where they can assess their new surroundings. If a lot of activity is bound to come afterward, keep them in a crate or their leash until things settle down to normal.

We recommend you to read “Handling Property Breakage by Your Relocating Crew” and “Discovering Your New Metropolis”.