When it comes to moving, there are many different aspects involved with the moving process. From packing up clothes to preparing your family for a new environment, a variety of details accompany most moves. For pet owners, preparing your pet for the move is equally important. After all, your pets are a huge part of your family, and you want to make sure they are prepared for the move.

With all moves, you want to make the process as smooth and easy as possible for all members of your family.  Pets, like humans, have many items that help them live an active and productive life.  Many of these items such as toys, collars, leashes, and more will need to be moved to your new location to help your pet adjust to a new area.

If you are a pet owner, and you are in the process of planning a move, consider some of the following ways you can prepare your pet for a move.

Pet Food
Keeping your pet on a consistent and nutritious diet is important during the moving process. Just like humans, pets need proper nourishment and your pet’s food and eating habits will need to be addressed even in the midst of your move. As you prepare your pet for moving to a new location, consider any changes you may face in providing food for your pet. For example, if you are currently getting food from a specific local pet store, check out pet stores in your new location to see if they have comparable offerings for pet food or similar pet food. The adjustment will be different for your pet, but allowing them to stay on a consistent diet will help them to maintain a sense of familiarity and healthy nutrition.

For the move, make sure you leave a supply of pet food with you during the moving process so that your pet will have something to eat during a cross country or local move. Look for pet friendly eating options along your moving route, and make sure your pet also stays hydrated during the moving process.

Veterinarian
Prior to your move, look into any tests or vaccinations your pet may need in advance of the move. This will protect your pet against possible diseases and also give you time to help your pet transition to a new veterinarian. A good tip is to look for potential new veterinarians in your new location before you move. This is important because, in the event your pet needs medical care, you will want to have some idea of who can treat your pet in the case of an emergency. Making sure your pet is prepared will help make the moving process easier for your pet, as well as the whole family.

Pet Items
Packing up your pet’s toys and belongings is an important part of the moving process. As you prepare your pet for a move, keep certain items that make your pet feel comfortable, out from the moving boxes so they will have a little reminder of the environment that they are used to. Pack up any items that your pet will not need right away, but make sure they will be easily accessible on the other side of your move so that your pet can settle in quickly, just like you.

Fencing
Once you move to your new area, you will want your pet to become adjusted to their new environment.  Traditional fencing usually comes to mind when thinking about placing a fence around the home; however, if traditional fencing is not an available option, you might want to consider a small play pen area or alternative protective fencing options. The main goal is to keep your pet safe in your yard, while allowing them to get accustomed to their new surroundings at the same time.  

Routine
Helping your pet to maintain a consistent routine is important both before and after a move. If your pet is used to a daily walk at a certain time, try to keep that routine established and consistent so that your pet will have an easier time adjusting during the moving process. Look for local dog walking parks or pet friendly areas in your new location where your pet can walk, play and see that other pets are also in the area.

Hopefully, these tips will help you to prepare your pet for your next move, as well as help them adjust and settle in to a new home. For more moving tips and resources, visit our Moving page, check out our Blog or feel free to browse through our website.