Moving day can be a fun new adventure, but it can also be stressful and intimidating to our beloved pets.
For many people, pets become a part of the family, and it’s important to make them feel as comfortable as possible during this transition. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK® Franchisee Mackenzie Kilgariff shared a few tips for those who will be taking on a move with their pets.
“As you are packing up your belongings - keep your pets in a room that you plan to pack up last so that they can feel more comfortable in a familiar environment,” Kilgariff said. “We recommend keeping your pets in this space as your move team arrives so they can relax and not get let out accidentally.”
If you have a long-distance move coming up, Kilgariff recommends getting your pets acclimated to their crates ahead of time.
“By gradually introducing them to the crates in advance you can help create a positive association. Start by placing treats and food in their open crate. Then start taking them for short walks in the crate throughout your home, or small driving trips around your neighborhood! After they are done in the crate, reinforce this concept with more treats and playtime!”
Below are additional tips on how to make your pets feel more comfortable with the move.
Dogs:
- Some four-legged friends can be territorial of their space, which can lead to anxiety when new people step into their home. If your furry friend is like this, fill a big with treats so the movers can give some to your dog when they arrive. This will also give your dog time to get to know the movers.
- Moving day comes with many different tasks; ensure your dog’s ID tag is up to date and if possible, microchipped just in case they get out.
- Make sure to bring along your dog’s favorite comfort items, whether that be a toy, blanket, or bed. Make sure you also bring along their favorite treats! These items will make them feel a bit more comfortable on the drive to the new place and when they arrive.
- Just like people, it’s going to take some time for your dog to adjust to their new home. If you’re unable to be home most of the day, it might be a good idea to have someone come over and stay with them as they get acquainted with the new place.
Cats:
- Many cats like their own space and aren’t a huge fan of strangers. To help keep their anxiety down during the move, place them in a safe space they enjoy in your home while checking in on them throughout the day.
- When it comes to taking your fluffy friend to their new home, be sure to bring their favorite toys and treats and put them in their crate. This will help keep their mind off the drive and help them feel more comfortable when they get to their new home.
- When you arrive at your new home, slowly introduce your cat to their new surroundings. Too much at once can be overwhelming for many cats.
Fish:
- When transporting your fish make sure you have them in a secure place. It’s a good idea to place your fish in bags with a mix of clean water directly from their aquarium and new water. Then add rubber bands around the top of the bags and put them in an insulated cooler that is dark.
- When you get to your new home, get the tank set up and let the filter run for a few hours before putting the fish back in their tank. Do your best to limit their time away from their normal tank to less than 48 hours.
Small pets:
- If you’re moving with guinea pigs, hamsters or gerbils, be sure to keep them protected from direct sunlight or cold drafts. Small pets like these are more sensitive to temperature changes that are drastic.
- Make sure the cage they’re in is clean and has food, water, and items they really enjoy so they’re comfortable on the drive.
As a reminder- TWO MEN AND A TRUCK does not transport any animals. Before your move it's important to create a plan for how you will transport them.
TWO MEN AND A TRUCK® is the first and largest franchised moving company in the United States. Let us help move you forward! For more helpful tips and information on moving services subscribe to out blog and like us on Facebook.