It is widely known that moving is on the top 10 list of life’s most stressful events and the same rings true for our furry family members. They are witnessing the chaos of their entire existence disheveled, packed up, and moved out of the house without understanding why. It is not uncommon during a move for animal family members to become spooked and bolt at the first opportunity. If you find yourself in the middle of a summertime move, we’ve put together a list of tips to ease the stress on both you and your furry roommate(s).
Keep Them Safe & Happy
The best place for your pet on moving day is at friend or family member’s house. This way he’ll avoid all the moving day “excitement.” Another great alternative is to check him into a luxury pet resort for pampering and play time while you take care of the heavy lifting. Jet Pet Resort in Phoenix has boarding or daycare options 365 days a year and is a great place to keep your pooch safe during the transition of homes.
Update Microchip and ID Tags
If your pet is microchipped, be sure to update your dog’s account with your new address. It is also important to get a new pet ID tag (prior to the big move). Having an up-to-date photo of your pet is always a good idea in order to help locate him if he gets lost in his new neighborhood.
Whistle is another great alternative to the Microchip. It’s a GPS tracker and comes with a mobile app that can be downloaded to your mobile phone. You simply attach the tracker to your animal’s collar and program multiple “safe zones” (i.e. home, park, car, etc.) to keep tabs on your pet from wherever you are. If your furry friend wanders outside of those programmed “safe zones” the app will notify you immediately via text, and then show you a map that tracks the animal’s every move, until you catch up to them.
Keep Hydrated
Keeping hydrated is so important – especially during those hot summer days. Make sure there is plenty of water available throughout the day.
Properly Secure Your Pet in Your Vehicle
Using proper restraints for your pets when they’re in the car ensures a smooth and safe transition for everyone. Place small animals (cats, hamsters, etc) in carriers/cages. Larger animals (dogs) in a crate if the vehicle will allow, otherwise, a harness specific to car rides can be purchased through Amazon or PetSmart. You can also use a regular harness (used for walking them). Give them a few feet of leash and close the remainder of the leash in the car door. This prevents your pet from trying to crawl into your lap while driving, as well as being tossed about the cabin should you break quickly.
If you have a dog who gets motion sickness, you may want to consider speaking with your vet about dosages of Dramamine. This may be particularly helpful for moving cross country or extensive car rides.
Welcome Home
Cats should be introduced to their new environment slowly. We recommend you start by leaving them in the master bath for a few hours, then let them explore the master bedroom, then the closet, then the hall, etc.
If you have a dog who is extremely anxious and may have trouble adapting, you can speak with your vet in advance about Alprazolam (doggie Xanax).
➤ NEXT UP ON THE BLOG: DOG DAYS OF SUMMER
Now that you and your family are all settled into your new home, we’ve put together a list of of fun summertime activities and pet-friendly places around the Valley to beat the summer heat.
Disclaimer: The materials or advice contained in this article are provided for general information purposes only and do not constitute sole professional advice on any subject matter. The information/recommendation is not intended to replace the advice of your pet’s own veterinarian or doctor. This article (us) is designed for information purposes only – so that you will know what options might be available to you and what questions and topics to ask your own vet about. Your vet can directly examine your animal – we can not. Only vets who have directly examined your pet can tell you which treatments, drugs and doses are most effective and safe for your animal. No article can guarantee this like your own clinician can.
