Moving is a big change for everyone involved, and that includes our beloved pets. While we understand the reasons behind a relocation, our furry, feathered, or scaled companions often don’t. This can lead to stress, anxiety, or even health issues for them. At Premier Relocations, an agent for Mayflower, we know your pets are family, and we’re here to help you make their move as safe and stress-free as possible.

Here’s a comprehensive guide to relocating with your pets:

Before Moving Day: Preparation is Key

1. Visit the Vet:

  • Check-up: Schedule a full check-up to ensure your pet is healthy enough for travel.
  • Vaccinations & Records: Make sure all vaccinations are up-to-date and get copies of their medical records.
  • Sedatives/Anxiety Medication: Discuss with your vet if sedatives or anti-anxiety medication might be appropriate for travel, especially for anxious pets. Never administer medication without veterinary guidance.
  • New Vet Referral: Ask for recommendations for a new vet in your destination area.

2. Update ID & Microchip Information:

  • Ensure your pet’s collar has an ID tag with your current contact information and, if possible, your new contact information or a temporary number.
  • Update your pet’s microchip registration with your new address and phone number before the move.

3. Prepare Their Travel Gear:

  • Carrier/Crate: If traveling by car or air, ensure their carrier is comfortable, well-ventilated, and large enough for them to stand, turn around, and lie down. Familiarize them with it in advance by placing treats or toys inside.
  • Leash & Harness: Essential for dogs and even some cats.
  • Comfort Items: Bring their favorite bed, blanket, or toys to provide a sense of familiarity.

4. Research Pet-Friendly Travel & Housing:

  • Route Planning: If driving long-distance, plan pet-friendly hotels or rest stops.
  • Airline Rules: If flying, understand specific airline requirements for pet travel (size, breed, health certificates, temperature restrictions). This can be complex, so start early.
  • New Home Research: Confirm your new residence and any temporary housing allows pets and understand their specific pet policies (e.g., breed restrictions, number limits).

On Moving Day: Minimizing Stress

1. Keep Them Safe & Separate:

  • On the busiest part of moving day (loading the truck), keep your pets in a quiet, secure room with their food, water, litter box/potty pad, and comfort items. Place a sign on the door.
  • For very anxious pets, consider boarding them with a trusted friend, family member, or professional pet sitter for the day.

2. Pack a “Pet Essentials” Bag:

  • Food & Water: At least a few days’ supply of their regular food (don’t change their diet during a stressful time), treats, bowls, and bottled water.
  • Medication: All necessary meds.
  • Leash, Harness, Waste Bags: For potty breaks and walks.
  • Comfort Items: Favorite toy, blanket.

3. Maintain Routine (as much as possible):

  • Stick to their feeding, walking, and playtime schedules as much as you can. Predictability is comforting.

4. Transportation:

  • Car Travel: Secure pets in carriers or with a pet seatbelt. Never leave them unattended in a vehicle. Make frequent stops for walks and potty breaks.
  • Air Travel: Understand the risks and requirements. For long-distance moves, ground transport might be less stressful than air travel for some pets.

In Your New Home: Helping Them Adjust

1. Create a “Safe Space”:

  • Before unpacking everything, set up a designated, quiet room for your pet with their familiar bed, toys, food, water, and litter box/potty pad. Let them explore this space first.
  • Introduce them to the rest of the house gradually, on a leash if necessary, to prevent them from feeling overwhelmed or hiding.

2. Stick to a Schedule:

  • Re-establish their regular feeding, walking, and playtime routines as quickly as possible.

3. Pet-Proof Your New Home:

  • Before letting them roam, check for any potential hazards like open windows, toxic plants, or small spaces they could get stuck in.

4. Update Information Locally:

  • Register your pet with local authorities if required.
  • Get your pet set up with the new vet you researched.

5. Patience and Love:

  • Pets often need time to adjust to new sights, sounds, and smells. Be patient, give them plenty of attention, reassurance, and positive reinforcement. They might exhibit unusual behaviors like hiding, not eating, or having accidents – these are typically stress-related and will usually subside.

Relocating with pets requires extra planning, but with Premier Relocations handling the logistics of your household goods, you’ll have more time to focus on your beloved companions. We’re here to make your entire family’s move a successful and happy one. Contact us today for a no-cost estimate!