Moving with Pets: How to Make It Stress-Free for Your Furry Friends

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Moving to a new home is an exciting yet challenging experience, especially when you have pets. Unlike humans, pets don’t understand why everything around them is changing, which can make them anxious and stressed. With proper planning and the right approach, you can make the moving process smoother and less stressful for your furry friends.

Helping Hands Family Movers – Top Edmonton Moving Company understands the unique challenges of relocating with pets. Our professional moving services can help you focus on keeping your pet comfortable while we handle the logistics. If you are planning a move in Edmonton, consider using our expert services to make the transition easier.

Preparing Your Pet for the Move

Visit the Veterinarian

Before moving, schedule a visit to your vet. Ensure your pet is healthy and up to date on vaccinations. If you are moving to a new city or neighborhood, ask for recommendations on veterinarians in your new area. Obtain copies of medical records and prescriptions for any ongoing treatments.

Update Identification and Microchip Information

A new location can be confusing for pets, increasing the risk of them getting lost. Update their identification tags with your new address and contact information. If your pet has a microchip, ensure that the information is updated in the database.

Introduce Packing Gradually

Pets can become anxious when they see their surroundings changing rapidly. Start packing gradually so they can adjust to the process. Leave out their favorite toys, bedding, and food bowls until the last minute to maintain a sense of normalcy.

Maintain Routine and Familiarity

Animals thrive on routine, so try to keep their schedule as normal as possible. Feed them, walk them, and play with them at the same times each day. Familiar routines will help reduce anxiety during the moving process.

Moving Day: Keeping Your Pet Safe

Designate a Safe Space

On moving day, designate a quiet and secure area for your pet away from the chaos. This could be an empty room or a bathroom with their food, water, bed, and favorite toys. If possible, ask a friend or family member to watch your pet while movers are working.

Keep Pets Away from Movers

With people constantly coming in and out, pets can become overwhelmed or even escape. Consider using a crate or carrier to keep them secure. If you are moving in Edmonton, Helping Hands Family Movers can help ensure a smooth process while you focus on your pet’s comfort.

Transporting Your Pet Safely

If traveling by car, make sure your pet is secured in a well-ventilated carrier. Take breaks during long trips to allow them to stretch, eat, and use the bathroom. If flying, check airline regulations and prepare your pet accordingly.

Helping Your Pet Adjust to the New Home

Create a Familiar Environment

Once you arrive at your new home, set up a dedicated space with familiar items such as their bed, toys, and food bowls. This will help your pet feel more secure in the new environment.

Introduce Your Pet to the New Space Gradually

Allow your pet to explore one room at a time rather than overwhelming them with the entire house. Spend time with them in each area to help them feel comfortable and reassured.

Maintain a Routine

Just like before the move, stick to a consistent feeding, walking, and play schedule. Familiarity will help your pet feel more comfortable in the new home.

Monitor Their Behavior

Moving can be stressful, and some pets may take longer to adjust. Keep an eye on their eating habits, behavior, and energy levels. If they show signs of prolonged stress, anxiety, or illness, consult a veterinarian.

Special Considerations for Different Types of Pets

Dogs

Take dogs for walks around the new neighborhood to help them get used to their new surroundings.
Provide extra exercise and playtime to help them release pent-up energy.
Use calming aids such as diffusers or calming collars if needed.

Cats

Keep cats confined to one room initially and gradually introduce them to other areas.
Provide hiding spots and climbing structures to help them feel secure.
Avoid letting them outside unsupervised until they are fully comfortable in their new home.

Small Pets (Rabbits, Guinea Pigs, Hamsters, etc.)

Keep their cage or enclosure consistent with how it was before the move.
Minimize exposure to loud noises and sudden changes.
Ensure proper ventilation and avoid placing them in direct sunlight or cold drafts.

Birds

Transport birds in their regular cage, covered with a light cloth to reduce stress.
Avoid exposing them to sudden temperature changes.
Place their cage in a quiet and familiar area in the new home.

Choose a Reliable Moving Company

Having a reliable moving company can significantly reduce the stress of moving with pets. Helping Hands Family Movers offers professional and efficient moving services in Edmonton, ensuring a seamless transition for you and your pets.

Our services include:

Final Thoughts

Moving with pets requires careful planning and consideration to ensure a smooth transition. By maintaining routines, preparing your pet in advance, and choosing a pet-friendly moving company like Helping Hands Family Movers, you can make the process stress-free for both you and your furry friends.

If you are moving in Edmonton, let our experienced team handle the logistics while you focus on keeping your pet happy and comfortable. Contact us today to book a stress-free move!