So, you’re moving, and you’ve got pets. Cue the dramatic music. Moving is tough, but moving with pets? That’s like trying to herd cats—literally, if you have cats. But don’t panic! With a little planning and a lot of treats, you can make this move easier for your furry friends.
Plan, Plan, Plan
You plan your move, so why not plan for your pets, too? Make sure they’re up-to-date on vaccinations, have ID tags, and consider microchipping them if they aren’t already. It’s like giving them a tiny GPS, minus the monthly fees.
Keep Calm and Stick to the Routine
Pets love routine. They love it more than you love coffee on a Monday morning. So, try to keep their schedule as normal as possible. Feed them at the usual times, play with them, and for goodness’ sake, don’t pack their favorite toy at the bottom of a box. Moving is stressful enough without a feline meltdown.
Create a Pet Sanctuary
On moving day, create a pet sanctuary—a quiet room where they can stay while you’re busy playing Tetris with your furniture. Throw in their bed, some toys, and maybe a snack or two. It’s like sending them to a spa, minus the cucumber slices.
Traveling with Pets: Not Just a Road Trip
Transporting your pets is where things get real. For dogs, a crate or seatbelt harness is a must. For cats, carriers are non-negotiable, no matter how much they glare at you. Throw in a favorite blanket or toy to remind them they’re not heading to the vet. And if you’re driving long distances, remember to take breaks.
You don’t want an antsy poodle on your hands.
Introducing Your Pets to Their New Kingdom
Once you’ve arrived, let your pets explore their new kingdom—er, home—gradually. Start with one room, then slowly let them take over, like a fluffy Napoleon. And keep that routine going! Feed, play, repeat. They’ll settle in before you can say, “Where’s the cat?”
Moving with pets doesn’t have to be a catastrophe. With some planning, routine, and a lot of love (and treats), your pets will adjust to their new home. And remember, no matter how crazy the move gets, your pets are counting on you to stay calm, cool, and stocked up on kibble.
