Preparing your Move with a Pet

As you prepare to move to a new home, remember to make a plan for your pet to keep them comfortable throughout the process. Packing up your life into boxes and deconstructing your whole house will likely be stressful for your pet, so find ways to reduce their stress—and yours—while buying a new home and moving. 

Packing Up Your Home

Your dog or cat could be alarmed when they see you packing up your life—here’s how to help them cope. 

•       Introduce your pet to the moving boxes well before you start packing to desensitize them.
•       Give your dog plenty of exercise if they seem worried about the packing process.
•       Consider microchipping your pet just in case they slip out during packing and moving.

Relieving Your Pet’s Anxiety

Even the mellowest pets can develop anxiety when things change.

•       CBD oil is a great remedy for anxiety in cats and dogs.
•       Use these tips to help reduce anxiety in dogs.
•       Anxiety medications can be great for dogs who struggle with change.

Moving Day Tips

It’s important to take good care of your pet on moving day so they can have positive first impressions of their new home. 

•       For cat owners, put your cat in one room of the new house with familiar objects around and keep them there while they explore their new surroundings.
•       Take your dog on a “sniffy walk” around the new neighborhood so they become more comfortable.
•       Find a trusted pet sitter to take your pet on a fun adventure on moving day.
•       If you feel at home, it will also help your pet adjust, so use these tips from Marin Real Estate to help you get comfortable.

One of the best things you can do for your pet is to keep your own stress levels low during the move. They’ll feed off your energy, so if you’re calm and relaxed, they’ll have a much easier time with the transition.