Moving with pets can be challenging no matter what type of animal you have. Change, especially location change, is stressful for animals and can cause anxiety. Even if you’re over-the-moon excited to move into your new place, remember that your pets may need some extra care. Here are our top 5 tips for moving safely with a pet.

1. Prepare Your Pet for the Big Day
   Does your dog know something’s up when you get your vacation luggage out? Moving boxes can trigger the same nerves. For at least a month before moving day, let them get used to having these boxes around. You should also contact your vet before the move. They can recommend a vet closer to your new home and help you arrange updated tags. If your animal is particularly anxious, they can even prescribe anti-anxiety medication.
2. Arrange for a Pet Sitter
   Do yourself and your pet a favour by not having them present during the big move. If possible, arrange for a friend or family member to take them for the day(s) you will be moving. This prevents your animal from getting too stressed. You can also leave them at a kennel or with a professional pet sitter.
3. Pet-Proof Your New Home
   Before bringing your pet to the new place, make sure it’s ready for them. If it’s a fixer-upper, are there any dangerous materials that could hurt them or be ingested? Are there little pieces of packing peanuts scattered on the floor? You want to remove any choking hazards or toxic materials that could make your pet sick. Block off rooms or areas of the home that you don’t want your pet to enter for their own safety.
4. Make an Overnight Bag
   Before you pack up all their food and toys, we recommend creating an overnight bag for moving day. Collect all the items your pet might need during the moving period, such as food, toys, medications, grooming supplies, and their bed or cage. It’s wise to also include their vet’s contact information and their medical information in the bag in case of an emergency.
5. Move Them in the Right Carrier
   Most pets will need to be transported in a carrier or crate. If your dog isn’t used to being in a crate, start practicing with one at least a month before the move. Take them for car rides in the crate so it is familiar to them on moving day. For smaller animals, choose carriers made for them. Cats have carriers that are smaller with more coverage than dog crates. Birds should be transported in cages that are securely shut. Fish are more likely to survive a move when transported in a plastic bag with water.

Looking for More Moving Tips?
Moving with pets can be stressful, but there’s nothing like welcoming them into your new home and seeing their excitement. If you’re interested in getting more tips on moving with or without pets, contact us. The de Denus Team is always happy to give moving advice and ensure your new home checks all your (and your pet’s) boxes.