Pets are an integral part of our families. 60% of households in the UK house (non-aquatic) pets (13.5 million dogs and 12.5 million cats). Whether you’ve got a faithful dog, a cuddly lap cat, or even a talkative parrot, moving home can be just as stressful for them as it is for us. Unable to understand what’s happening, they can find the process of packing up and being moved quite disorientating. And that’s before they have to settle into a new home!
Fortunately, animals are quite resilient, and with proper planning, moving with pets doesn’t have to be a big drama. This blog post explores moving home with pets and outlines some strategies to make it as simple as possible. Follow this guide, and you’ll be snuggling on your sofa in your new living room in no time.
Preparing for the move
How you prepare for moving day will depend on your furry (or feathered) friend’s temperament and personality. For example, if you’ve got a dog that’s relaxed and easy-going, you can probably start packing as you would normally.
However, even the most relaxed pooches can get stressed out. If your dog or cat likes to stick their nose into everything, it can be a good idea to have them stay with friends or family for a few days while you pack and move everything. This also helps avoid any accidental injuries or mishaps to pets or people.
If your pet isn’t used to being in their crate or travel carrier, start introducing it to them a few weeks in advance. Put plenty of treats in there, their favourite toy and blanket, and make it a fun experience for them. If possible, take them to their new home before moving day so they can have a sniff around and get familiar with the space.
In either case, creating a moving timeline and schedule with all the tasks needed to move your little companions to their new home can help. For example, in the chaos of moving home with a dog, it’s very easy to forget to feed them or take them for their morning walk. Make a list of everything that will need to be packed and where it will be. If possible, we put all of your pet’s stuff in the same box for easy access.
Remember, you’ll also have to update your pet’s microchip with the new address when you get there.
Moving with pets: what to do on the day
If you can’t find a sitter on moving day, you’ll need to make the process as calm for them as possible. Consider the following strategies to make moving house with a dog, or any animal for that matter, much simpler.
- Maintain their normal routine: feed them, let them out, and take them for a walk at your usual time. Make sure their food bowls are in their usual spot, and there isn’t too much activity going on.
- Keep them in a quiet space: put your furry friends in a quiet, calm place while the removal van is being packed up. Having excited dogs or nervous cats running around while heavy boxes are being moved is not ideal, not to mention they might run off! Make sure they have their favourite blanket, toys and treats with them too. Even better if a family member can sit with or play with them.
- Don’t forget their needs: with so much to do, it’s easy to forget that your pet may need the loo, some fresh water, or something to eat. Set reminders on your phone to check on them regularly.
- Travel separately: when moving home with a dog or other pet, make sure they travel with you in the car rather than in the van surrounded by rattling boxes and furniture. If it’s close, you could even walk them to your new home to burn off some energy and do things on their terms.
- Let them settle first: in your new home, arrange a space for them with their bed, bedding, toys, and some treats so they can settle down. If you can, let them explore the house and have a good sniff before anything is moved in, and keep them in their safe space while it’s all happening. Remember to check on them regularly and give them plenty of love.
- Scent swapping: when moving with a dog, a good trick to help them feel safe is to rub a cloth around their face and then onto various furnishings, corners, and surfaces at their height. This will help them spread their scent around the house and calm them down.
Settling into the new home
In your new house, it’s important to keep doors and windows shut. Dogs, and especially cats, may try to find their way ‘home’ so do everything you can to keep them in the house to begin with. Don’t let dogs off the lead in public until they are used to their new surroundings. It’s also a good idea to let your old neighbours know you’re moving in case your pet shows up in your old neighbourhood in the future.
Try to maintain your old routine as much as possible. Feeding and taking them out at the same time, as usual, every day will help keep them calm and get them used to their new home much quicker.
Pets have emotions and feelings, and they can get homesick, stressed and down just like we do. You need to be patient with them in the days and weeks after the move. Accidents might happen due to stress or not knowing how to get to the garden. They might also become withdrawn and depressed, so it’s important to let them do everything at their own pace, as they will eventually settle.
At Zapperty, we take the hassle out of selling your home, speeding up the process for both you and your pet. We will make a cash offer on any home within seven days, simply contact us to find out more. In the meantime, head to the Zapperty Blog for home handy property and moving tips.