Moving to a new place can be exciting for us humans, but it can be very stressful for our furry friends. Our canine and feline companions as well as our avian and other four-legged friends all benefit from consistency and regularity in their daily lives.
Here are some tips when moving with pets to ensure that your pet has a stress-free and enjoyable relocation with you.
- Visit your veterinarian before you relocate. Get your pet up-to-date on their immunisations and address any questions or concerns you have about their health as you prepare for the move.
- Make sure your pet has current identification, including a tag with your current contact information and your new address. If your pet is not already chipped, you should think about getting one.
- If you are making a long-distance move, it is especially important to plan ahead and book pet-friendly hotels along the way. Verify that your intended accommodations allow pets and provide the amenities they require.
- Understanding of Animal Laws: Learn the leash rules, licencing requirements, and any breed-specific limitations that apply to your new neighbourhood.
- When their home is being packed up, pets may experience anxiety. Start them off slowly by letting them explore vacant rooms and boxes at their own pace to get used to the idea of packing.
- Prepare a special container or bag for your pet’s necessities such food, water, medication, toys, and bedding. With this method, you may easily get to your belongings throughout the relocation.
- Be consistent: In the days leading up to the transfer, keep your pet on its usual feeding and exercise schedule as much as possible. A regular habit can be a stress-buster.
- Make sure your pet is safely restrained in the car. When travelling with your pet, always utilise a secure crate or carrier and a pet seatbelt.
- The carrier or carton must have adequate ventilation. Make sure there’s enough fresh air and that your pet is protected from the elements (such as direct sunshine and draughts).
- Frequent Pauses: In order to give your pet a chance to get some exercise, make a poo, and drink water, schedule regular rest stops along the route. During these times, dogs should be restrained using a leash or harness.
- You should never leave your pet in a vehicle, especially in bad weather. Extreme heat can be dangerous even with the windows open.
- Make sure your new home is as safe for your pet as it would be for a child before letting it roam freely. Protect your pet from harm and set up a special play area.
- Give your pet plenty of time to become used to its new environment. Give them access to one room at first, and then more as time goes on. Offer familiar stuff like toys, blankets, and a familiar environment.
- Keep your pet’s food, exercise, and playing schedules the same as you get used to your new routine.
- Take your dog on walks in the new neighbourhood so it may become used to the area and redo its scent markings.
- Watch How They Act. In the first few weeks of your move, it’s important to monitor your pet’s actions closely. Take immediate action in response to any symptoms of tension or anxiety, and think about getting the advice of a vet or animal behaviourist if necessary.
- Discuss your pet’s presence and any special needs or concerns with your professional movers before moving day.
We also offer packing and wrapping services, home moves and furniture removals Cape Town and surrounding areas.