According to the Canadian Animal Health Institute, approximately 7.0 million cats and 6.4 million dogs live in Canadian homes. Having a pet can be a great addition to any lifestyle, however, it can become stressful or overlooked when the topic of moving to a new home arises.
Will your pet be okay while you’re packing? What will your furry friend do while you are making trips to your new location? When will your pet officially stay at your new home? More often than not, these questions are overlooked during the moving process as things can get pretty hectic! Use our suggestions below to help make your move smooth and comfortable for you and your pet!
Pack Over Time
Packing can be stressful, but it doesn’t have to be! The feelings that people associate with packing usually stem from feeling rushed or disorganized, so try to limit those feelings by being proactive. Pack your items over a longer length of time, rather than at the last minute. You will feel more organized if you pack over time than if you are running around across every room trying to fit everything into boxes on moving day. Packing over time will also allow your pet to relax. Chances are, if you are stressed, your pet is stressed. Completely changing your pet’s environment within two days can be overwhelming and they may become confused and worried. When packing over a longer period of time, your pet has more time to adjust to what is happening around them. Although this may not always be an option as you may be moving at the last minute, consider how you can pack, organize and plan your move while keeping your pet relaxed and comfortable.
Consider packing over time to help your pet adjust to the process.
Speak with Your Veterinarian
Speaking with your pet’s veterinarian is always a good idea when making a move. Knowing that their vaccinations are up to date (especially if you are moving to a new area) is always a great idea as well. If you are moving to a new town and won’t be able to make the trip to your vet anymore, ask them for a referral around the area of your new home! Alternatively, ask your CLV Group Customer Care Coordinator if they know where the local animal hospitals are – they are always happy to help.
Visit your pet’s veterinarian before moving to a new area to check up on your pet’s vaccinations or to ask for a referral.
On Moving Day
If your pet will be with you on moving day, make sure that they are away from the hustle and bustle of the move. Consider keeping them in their crate or play pen for a while if you cannot keep your eye on them while organizing all of your boxes and furniture in your new home. Be sure to keep their favourite toys with them to help them stay comfortable during this time and to help them get used to their new environment.
When moving with pets, it is a good idea to pack a separate bag of their necessities to ensure you have what you need, rather than scrounging through packed boxes in an emergency. Consider setting aside some food, water, toys and a first aid kit just in case! You will feel good knowing that your pet’s necessities are on hand and ready when you need them. If you are traveling a longer distance, be sure to make stops to allow bathroom breaks for your dog, as well as to let them stretch their legs!
If you think your pet will be too stressed to be included on moving day, consider asking a friend or relative to watch them while you make the trip to your new. This is a great option for pets who are restless and would much rather be playing outside.
When moving longer distances, make some stops to let your pet stretch their legs.
Have you moved with a pet before? Tell us your tips by sending us an email at social@clvgroup.com!
Will you be moving to a CLV property with your pet? Show us your moving day photos with hashtag #NowYoureHome!
Be sure to check back next week for “Apartment Pets 101 (Part 2 of 3): How to Pet Proof Your Apartment” for more ideas for living the pet-owner lifestyle!
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