Tips for moving with pets

Choose the perfect moving experience by putting your trust in
the capable hands of Spyder Moving + Storage

Your furry four-legged friends are your family. So it’s no wonder that they will be moving with you! But relocation can be hard on pets. And it can make the process harder and more complicated for you too. So how do you go about moving with pets? Is there a way to make it easier? How can relocation be safe, comfortable, and easy for both you and your animal companions? These tips from the expert moving professionals in charge of Spyder Moving Services aim to answer those questions and more! So let’s get started.

What are the difficulties of moving with pets?

Relocation is hard on both you and your pets. Of course, there’s the fact that your pets are yet another household member to keep track of, work with, pack for, and stress over. But there’s more to it. Animals, especially domesticated ones, like routine. Change stresses them out. And relocation is a pretty big change which will definitely take its toll on them. You know how big of a toll it takes on you yourself, just imagine how much your furry friends are going through.

A picture of a dog
Change is hard for animals.

Additionally, pets (dogs in particular) are very good at sensing their owners’ moods. If you’re feeling stressed, odds are your pet is too which means that your moving stress is going to make your pets even more nervous than they probably already are. Not to mention, most animals are not big fans of traveling, making transportation difficult. But this is nothing you can’t overcome. Just stick with us and let’s see what your options are.

Preparation and organization is key when moving with pets

Like with every complex move, preparation and organization are vital to a successful relocation with pets. So make sure to take your pet and their needs into account right from the start! Keeping your pet calm, happy and cheerful is imperative.

Make sure your pet is healthy

Take special care of your pet in the weeks leading up to the relocation. You can’t avoid putting them under stress. But you can make sure they are in a condition to take that stress. So be sure to feed them well, protect them from parasites, stay up to date on their vaccines and consult with a vet before the move. It’s key to take care of big things such as a vet visit before you leave your home for good. Once your movers Macon TN have already relocated you to your new home, you will need to search for a trusted vet all over again. So, taking your pet to the vet before the moving process is key.

Prepare your pet’s documentation

Having the right papers is perhaps even more important for your pet than it is for you. A cat or a dog can’t explain their health issues to a new vet, prove their vaccinations, ask for directions to your new address if lost, or be left to fend for themselves if refused entry into a state or country. So having your pet’s veterinary history, passport and all relevant documents are vital. Don’t forget to check any legal requirements either, especially if moving to another state or country. If you do forget something, your vet will likely have it stored somewhere. It might be smart to ask your vet if he keeps copies of your pet’s medical documentation, just for your peace of mind.

When moving with pets, plan the relocation in a way that suits the animal

You want to make sure your pets are as safe and comfortable as they can be during this stressful time. To do this, always adjust to your pet’s needs and plan a relocation with their safety and comfort as a priority. This may, for example, mean driving even if you’re moving long-distance from Mississippi because that’s what your pets are used to. But really, if you’re moving your car with you, there is no reason you wouldn’t use the car to move anyway. Always look for a solution that benefits all involved.

Dog in a car.
Get ready for a long drive if that’s what your pet needs.

Pack for your pet

Of course, you’ll pack their bed, crate, and toys. But don’t forget to have an overnight bag for your pet in addition to the one you’re packing for yourself! Water bowls, some food, their preferred snacks, and their favorite toy will go a long way in making them comfortable. Your pets won’t even realize you’ve moved for a little while, it will feel like a vacation for them. So, really making them feel safe and comfortable is what you should be doing. Also, packing services Memphis is something you can consider if the whole packing process of the move becomes a bit too much for you. There is no shame in hiring professionals. Actually, it’s even better because you will have trained professionals packing and handling your belongings.

Hire professionals if you need help moving with pets

If you’re not sure you can handle it yourself, hire professionals to help you move with pets. Remember, however, that most moving companies do not offer pet relocation among their residential moving services so be sure to hire pet relocation experts in addition to your regular movers. You might feel like it is a waste of money. But, really think it through. Why shouldn’t your pet get the treatment they deserve? Spending a bit extra to keep your pet happy and healthy will go a long way when it comes to your relationship.

Moving with pets other than dogs and cats

While dogs and cats are among the most popular pets these days, there are other animals out there that we enjoy the company of. Sometimes, moving with them can be a bit different. So, we need to find out everything there is to know. This way we can prevent accidents, and really work on making the move a success.

Moving with fish

Unfortunately, moving can often prove fatal to fish. If you’re moving far away, it’s best to give them away to someone. For short distances, use plastic bags with old (but not stale) tank water. Set the aquarium up at the new place and transfer them as soon as possible. If possible, try not to shake your fishies too much during transport.

Moving with guinea pigs, hamsters, and other rodents

Rodents respond very negatively to stress and change. Since they are susceptible to heart conditions, you must watch them closely for any sign of distress during the move. The best way to move them is in a warm, comfortable, and small carrier. If they can’t tell what is happening around them and sleep through the move, then that’s even better.

Moving with birds

Regardless of how well behaved your bird is, always move them in a cage. You never know how they will react in a hectic and stressful situation like a move! Besides, their cage is their home, they will surely feel more comfortable in their cage.

Moving with tortoises, snakes, lizards, and other reptiles

Reptiles should be moved in secure containers so they don’t escape. Just make sure they have enough ventilation for the trip. Like fish, you want to get them back in their terrarium as soon as possible! They do not have the fatality rate as fish though, so at least that is some weight off your back.

Keep your pet’s needs in mind throughout the move

Moving with pets requires that you take their needs into consideration at every step of the process: before, during, and after the move. And be sure to choose the right one among the many Tennessee long-distance moving companies that can accommodate your and your pet’s needs!

Guinea pig
Take care of your pet rodents during a move.

Before the move: keep your pet away from the chaos

All the running around in preparation for the move is stressful for animals. So if you don’t want to remove them entirely by leaving them in pet daycare or with a friend, at least try to keep them secluded from the chaos in a separate closed and quiet room or in their crate. You don’t want your local movers MS tripping over your dog!

During the move: keep an eye on your pet during relocation

Animals behave differently when they’re stressed. Even a trained dog or a loving cat may run away when they’re confused or scared. So keep a close eye on your pets. Always use leashes and carriers and try to provide them with anything extra you notice they need, be it food, water, a break, or extra cuddles!

After the move: help your pet adjust

There’s still work to do after moving with pets: you still need to help them adjust to the new environment! To ease the transition, move your pets last – that way they won’t have to roam unfamiliar places filled with boxes while you settle in. Get back into a routine as soon as possible to give your pets a sense of normalcy. Finally, don’t forget to update your information in their chip and collar!