If you think moving is stressful for you, think how much more stressful it can be for your pets. You know what’s going on. They don’t and until we learn to speak dog or cat, it isn’t easy to tell them. Many Sierra Vista residents have moved with their animals. Here are a few of their tips:
Visit Your Vet
Before you pack those moving boxes, schedule a check-up to ensure your pet is healthy and up-to-date on vaccinations. If you are changing vets due to the move, obtain copies of medical records, a health certificate and any required medications. Discuss ways to manage your pet’s anxiety during the move. If you have not found a new vet, ask your current vet to recommend one.
Packing Up
Your pets will likely be sniffing (or in the case of cats) playing in your moving boxes. Let them sniff to their hearts’ content, but watch for signs of anxiety. Prepare a quiet, secure area in your current home where your pet can stay during packing and moving day. Include familiar items like toys, bedding and food. Try to keep your pet’s routine as normal as possible leading up to the move to reduce stress.
Moving Day
Pack a bag with your pet’s essentials, including food, water, bowls, medications, toys, litter and any comfort items. Keep this bag easily accessible during the move. Arrange to have your pet stay with a pet sitter, friends or kennel to keep them out of the way during the move. If that isn’t possible, keep your pet in a secure and quiet room during the moving process to prevent them from getting stressed or escaping. Place a sign on the door to remind movers and family members to keep the door closed.
Get Settled
Once you’ve moved, set up a designated area in your new home with your pet’s familiar items. Cats should be gradually introduced to the rest of the house. Dogs should be walked around the block and taken to a dog park so they can get used to their surroundings and spend time with their favorite human. Stick to your pet’s regular feeding, walking and playtime schedule to provide a sense of normalcy.
Keep an Eye On Them
Most pets are happy as long as they are with their humans, but some can become depressed and miss their old home or neighborhood. Keep an eye on your pet’s behavior and appetite. Some stress and anxiety are normal, but consult a vet if you notice any concerning changes. Be sure to update your pet’s microchip and ID tags with your new address and contact information in case they try to return to their old home. Gradually introduce them to the new neighborhood and surroundings under supervision.
Make the Move to Sierra Vista
If you and your pets are ready for a change of scenery, visit us and learn how you can make your home in our neighborhood.
