When you’re getting ready for your residential move, your to-do list can seem endless. Canceling utilities, working with a realtor, and setting up internet service in your new home can all take a toll. It can be hard to work through all that needs to get done before moving day. It’s normal to get caught up in finalizing plans and getting settled in your new home.
It’s also important to remember that your pets are going through a huge adjustment, just like the human members of your family. Check out these five ways to help make the transition to a new home easier on your pet.
Give It Time
Remember, your pet is not going to become comfortable with their new home overnight. It will take some time for your furry friend to get used to their new surroundings. Some anxiety and misbehavior are to be expected. With time, they’ll get back to their regular personality.
Provide Extra Attention
It can be easy to forget about your pet’s needs when you’re trying to get everything into place in your new home, but it’s essential to spend time with them.
Take your dog out for an extra walk, or spend a few additional minutes brushing your cat to help put them at ease. This can be hard to remember when you’re caught up in moving tasks.
Setting a reminder on your phone can go a long way to helping you stay consistent with pet care while you’re moving. If you miss a walk or two, it’s ok. Some extra pets and snuggles can give your pet the reassurance they need.
Introduce Slowly
Giving your dog or cat access to your entire new home may seem like the right thing to do, but it can be overwhelming. Exposing your pet to small spaces at a time is a great way to help them feel comfortable and secure.
Don’t be worried if your pet wants to be left alone. Entering a new home can be scary. It’s normal for your pet to need some time to decompress.
Ask Your Vet About Supplements
There are many calming supplements available for pets. Talk with your vet to see if there’s a natural medicine option to help your pet through the moving process. Your vet can give you information on when and how much of the medicine to give your pet.
Provide Normalcy Whenever Possible
Adjusting to a new home is a huge change for your pet. Providing as much of their old life as possible can help them to feel comfortable.
This may mean packing a dog bed in your car instead of in the moving truck. The dog bed in the car allows your dog to lie down and feel at ease right away. Making your cat’s toys available immediately in your new home can help them feel relaxed.
Just like humans, your pets will adjust to their new home over time. If you have questions or concerns about their behavior, give your vet a call. They’ll be able to provide the help you need to ensure that your cat or dog is happy and comfortable.