Moving to a new home is no doubt stressful. Knowing the anxiety that can be experienced at this time, imagine what it must be like for your pets. Hi I’m Michele Irizarry CEO and Broker of Shore Prime Properties. If you aren’t already please be sure to like and follow Shore Prime Properties on Facebook, YouTube and LinkedIn. We post weekly content about the home buying and selling process, design trends and DIY tips. We also have articles just like this in our very own printed magazine “Good to Be Home”. Reach out to us today if you would like to be on our mailing list to receive the magazine. These tips will help to make your move safer and less stressful for you and your furry friends.
Switching vets: Ask for extra prescription refills, gather vet records and discuss the safest options for moving with your pet. Knowing that your pet is in good health buys you time to properly research a new vet. When researching a new vet look for recommendations from local neighborhood social media groups. It’s also a good way to meet new people in the area and socialize your animal.
Stockpile specialty food: In case you can’t find special foods right away in your new area, bringing an ample supply will help to avoid delays and emergencies. Animals generally don’t do well when switching foods quickly so if you are opting for a new brand, mix half the new food and old food for a while to wean them off.
Microchip and update tags: Make sure your new address and phone number are visible on any tags and if you haven’t already, this is a great time to microchip your pet. Your vet can help you reassign the contact information if you already have a microchip.
Do your homework: Find out what’s required in your new community. There may be stricter leash laws, specific tags required for pet sitting and walking services or your pet may need new medications to avoid localized pests like ticks.
Manage your pet’s stress: Having multiple people moving items in the house can cause stress for pets. Ask a friend to watch your animal companion while this is going on.
Manage the environment: Keep as many of your pet’s belongings with you during the move as possible and pack what you must last. Never leave your dog at home alone in an empty house- a barren environment can be extremely stressful causing behavioral and anxiety issues. If you have to keep your home empty with a pet at home, consider crating them and putting a blanket and toys in with them that’s suitable for your animal. A hack for making them comfortable in a crate sometimes is to drape a towel or blanket over the crate to make them feel more safe and enclosed in a new place.
Protect your pet during travel: Always talk to your vet about the safest option for traveling based on size and breed. Look for dog seat belts for smaller dogs, cats or puppies that will hold them to the seat with little room to wiggle around and wander the vehicle. For bigger animals try a back seat hammock that will restrain them from entering the front of the vehicle while you’re focusing on the road and protect your seats from fur.
Road trip basics: Keep your pets safe and secure in a well-ventilated crate or carrier. Your vet may also recommend a calming all-natural vitamin to reduce stress and help your pet relax. Pack an on-the-go traveling kit with your pet’s food, water, medications, a leash, waste bags, vaccination records and a toy or blanket to give your pet a sense of familiarity.
There’s nothing more exciting than new beginnings and taking the proper precautions to transition you and your pets will properly help to start your new journey on a positive note. For a PDF of a more in-depth tips on moving with your pets click the link for a free download. I’m Michele Irizarry selling prime real estate at the Jersey Shore.
