A Guide to Moving When You Have a Pet
Guest post by Cindy Aldridge, OurDogFriends.org
Pet owners who are shopping for a new home should do so with their pet’s needs in mind, from the very start. And because moving can be upsetting for some pets, it’s also important to prepare them for the move in advance, too. It’s also essential to prioritize your pet’s well-being and safety during the moving process. Here are some basic guidelines you can keep in mind to ensure that your move is as stress-free as possible - for both you and your pet.
How to shop for a pet-friendly home.
You probably have an extensive list of amenities you’re hoping for in your new home, for your own comfort and convenience. And it can be overwhelming, trying to find a residence that meets your needs in terms of space, layout, price, and location. But don’t forget to include your pet’s wants and needs when you’re making that list. For some pet owners, it may be easy to adapt to a new home. But for others, certain attributes may be not only desirable but necessary, if their pet is going to live there in good health and comfort.
The first thing you should consider is your prospective home’s location. Do the zoning laws have any restrictions on the kind of pet you have? Are there any environmental concerns, such as air pollution, that could impair your pet’s well-being? What about proximity to neighbors? Also, consider how much yard space you may need for your pet. And when you evaluate outdoor areas, don’t forget to consider safety issues, such as proximity to traffic.
When considering the residence itself, be realistic about how much space you and your pet really need. Some pets will do fine in a small apartment, but others simply can not have a decent quality of life without plenty of space to run and play in. If your pet will do better in a designated area they can have to themselves, make sure the house can accommodate this.
Once you have picked out the right home for you and your pet, there may be other preparations you need to make. Research area veterinarians and other pet-care professionals. If any alterations need to be made to keep your new home pet safe, do these in advance. This might mean replacing flooring or dealing with any dangerous wiring problems. If the lawn is not fenced in, this is something you need to attend to before the move. Look for fence contractors near me, compare rates, and see which companies might be willing to give you a discount.
How to have a safe and stress-free move.
Prepare your pet for the move, as well. If possible, take them to check out the new place and explore before the move. If you think your pet will be upset to the point of it becoming a health hazard, talk to your vet and find out what you might be able to give them to help them stay calm.
When moving day arrives, it might be a good idea to see if you can get a pet sitter to keep your pet for you, away from all the noise and disruption. Especially if you have a dog who is liable to be upset by movers coming in and out, it can be important to keep them securely and safely out of the way. Even if you think your pet will be calm throughout the process, do keep in mind that some moving companies require that pets be kept out of their way while they are working.
For your pet’s comfort, have a specific area in the new home already prepared for them with toys, food, and comfort items. Once you have moved in you may want to let them settle in just in that specific area or room, before letting them have the run of the house.
Of course, every pet is unique, so the kind of home you purchase, as well as how you go about moving your pet, will differ from one case to the next. But whatever the case, make your pet’s health and comfort a priority before, during, and after your move.