Moving to a new area or a new home not only is stressful on people, it’s also stressful on animals. If you have any pets, you need to think about them when you move. They will likely have some level of anxiety during the transition. Luckily, there are a few ways to limit your pet’s stress, so they are more comfortable with the move.
The Home Search
Before you decide where you buy and what home you want to buy, you should consider if your new digs can accommodate your pet. If you have a pet that requires a lot of space and exercise, you may want to consider a home with a big yard or something that is close to a dog park. If you are looking for a place that you will love, you should find one your pet will love too!
Prior to the Move
Once you find that home that’s perfect for you and your pet, you should plan out your move. Preparing an overnight bag with food and toys is a good idea so you don’t need to dig through your boxes right away when you are trying to get settled in.
Your pet also should be comfortable traveling in your vehicle before your move. Start by taking your pet on short drives to familiarize them with traveling in a vehicle. It will help relieve some of their anxiety when you make the big move to your new home.
During the Move
If you are unable to find someone to watch your pet while you move your belongings to your new place, there are a few other options. While you are loading up the truck, make sure your pet is in a room with the doors shut so they don’t get in the way or get stressed out from all of the commotion going on. Once you are driving to your new home, let your dog ride along in your vehicle instead of the moving truck. Being in a familiar vehicle during the drive will keep them from feeling more anxious.
Getting Settled
Once you arrive to your new home, the first thing you should unpack are your pet’s belongings such as their food/water bowl, toys, bed, etc. Having some familiar things in a new place is important to getting your pet acclimated to the new environment. Slowly introduce your pet to different areas of the house so they can gradually get more comfortable in your new home. You’ll also want to take them on a walk to explore the neighborhood.
These few tips are an easy way to make your pet feel at ease during a move. Follow them and your pet will thank you!
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First Weber sells real estate throughout Wisconsin: Metro Milwaukee and Southeastern WI, South Central Wisconsin/Greater Madison, Central Wisconsin, Northeast Wisconsin, Western WI, parts of MN, Michigan’s UP and Wisconsin’s great Northwoods. You can start searching for Wisconsin real estate and Wisconsin real estate agents at firstweber.com