Moving with pets doesn’t have to be an extra-stressful experience. You simply need to be aware of the various stress factors, know what to watch out for and prepare in advance. This way, you and your pets can get settled into your new location and be comfortable as fast as possible. Here are some tips to help you and your furry or feathered friends:
Are You Moving to an Apartment? Be Ready to Pay a Pet Deposit
If you’re moving to an apartment or a rented house, you can expect to pay an extra fee that is usually referred to as a pet deposit. This deposit may or may not be refundable when you move out. It often amounts to a few hundred dollars, though it may be even more if you’re going to a pricey location. The reason for it is simple: pets often cause messes and bring odors. Once you move out, these will have to be fixed by the landlord before he can re-rent the unit.
Tips to Help Your Pet Settle In
Dogs and cats aren’t geared up for the idea of moving to entirely new locations. Instead, they consider one place “home,” and are often disturbed when this is changed. They will initially be quite confused and upset when forced to leave their home. This can make moving with pets stressful, for you and them.
To help alleviate the pet’s confusion and resulting anxiety, keep things the same as before as much as you can. Feed and walk your dog at the same times as usual so that there is still something familiar to rely on.
After the move, stay close to dogs and give them plenty of attention – they feel safer in a “pack” situation. Cats, on the other hand, should be allowed to hide until they have calmed and oriented themselves. Finally, keep yourself calm. Both dogs and cats quickly pick up on the emotions of their human companions and mirror them.
Expect Veterinary Expenses
If you’re moving pets long distance by plane, the airline will want a certificate from a vet giving your pet a clean bill of health. This will bring about a vet bill. It’s only a problem if you aren’t ready for it, so be sure to put it in your budget. Also, remember that it will take a bit of time for the checkup, so plan your schedule to include this.
For Birds
Cockatiels and other birds should have their usual toys and treats. Be sure to keep the amount and timing of treats the same as usual in order to provide a familiar feel. Make sure to keep the bird in its usual in-home habitat, too. Keeping the same habitat will allow it to feel safer.
What Are the Most Stressful Aspects of Moving with a Pet?
According to Rent.com, the two most stressful aspects are the apartment pet deposit and dealing with pets’ emotional trauma. Forty-eight percent weren’t prepared for the deposit, while 39 percent found the emotional aspects hard to handle.
By being prepared for the pet deposit and keeping your pets’ routines as normal as possible, you will make it much easier to handle when moving in together with pets. Simply giving your little friend lots of love and routines will make the transition much easier.
Takeaways
- Apartments and rental houses usually charge extra for a “pet deposit.”
- Stick to pets’ usual routines after the move.
- Airlines typically require a veterinarian to sign a clean bill of health before the pet can fly.
- Birds should use their usual habitats after the move.
To make your move easier on you, hire Tiger Moving & Storage to take care of transporting your things in New Jersey. Everything goes more smoothly when you don’t have to worry about how you’ll get your items to a new location.
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