A move is usually stressful for humans, and even more so for their pets. Properly organizing the move, along with assistance from qualified movers, will help those living in Roseville reduce stress on their pets. Pets react to the slightest changes in the household, such as routine, packing boxes, new smells, and strangers.
At Daymakers, we work with families across Roseville and the Twin Cities who are frequently on the move with their pets. While our team handles the physical side of the move, these steps can help keep your pets safer and more comfortable before, during, and after moving day.
Prepare Your Pet For The Move In Advance
Your pet will fare better if he is accustomed to changes in advance of the main moving events. At least 1 to 3 weeks prior to the move, bring out the pets’ carriers, crates, leashes, and any travel supplies.
Put your pet’s favorite toys or blanket in an open crate or carrier, allowing the animal enough time to get used to the item rather than putting pressure on him just before the move.
For a pet that gets travel anxiety, schedule a visit to the vet 2 to 3 weeks before the move. You need time to try out the vet’s advice, not the day of the move.
Try to stick to your pet’s usual routine to lessen his stress during this period.
Protect Your Pet During the Move On Moving Day
There is no place for pets on moving day. The door will be constantly opening and closing, there will be a lot of furniture carried in the hallway, and strange people will enter your house. This can cause stress for your pet.
The best thing to do in such a situation is to lock your pet in one room where it can stay safe during the move.
On that door, put a clear note to let others know that there is a pet inside the room.
In that room, there should be left:
- Food and water
- Familiar bed or blanket
- Familiar toys
- Litter box, if required
- Carrier/crate
- Medications if necessary
If a friend or family member can care for your pet during the move, that may be even better. Many pets arrive at the new home calmer when they spend moving day away from the activity.
Ensure That Your Pet Travels in Comfort
The demands for travel can differ based on the extent of relocation, whether it is within Roseville or elsewhere. If your relocation journey is within the locality, then chances are that your pet will travel comfortably in a carrier in the back seat of the car with the air conditioning running.
Make sure the journey is peaceful. You should endeavor to have minimal stops if you possibly can, particularly in the case of cats. While dogs require planned stops during longer journeys, cats thrive with less interference during their travels.
For an easier trip:
- Use a sturdy carrier or crate.
- Maintain the environment cool and quiet in the car.
- Carry water and some food.
- Pack medications that are easily accessible.
- Have the number of your veterinarian handy.
- Do not open carriers in unknown places.
Some pets will not eat or drink much during travel because of stress. For a single trip, that can be normal. Watch for signs of distress and contact your veterinarian if you are concerned.
Never leave a pet in a parked vehicle during a summer move in Minnesota. Car interiors can become dangerous within minutes, even when the windows are partly open.
Help Your Pet Settle Into the New Home
The new home can feel overwhelming for pets at first. The layout is different, the smells are unfamiliar, and the household may still be busy with unpacking. Setting up a calm space early can make the adjustment easier.
Once the moving crew finishes, create a familiar area for your pet. Use their bed, toys, bowls, litter box, and an unwashed blanket or piece of clothing that smells like home.
Allow your pet to acclimate gradually. It is important not to rush your pet into anything; some pets may be very eager to explore their new environment, while others will prefer to retreat somewhere quietly.
The following tips should be followed in the first week:
- Feed at the same times as before.
- Go on walks according to the previous schedule.
- Stick to the same bedtime routine.
- Provide quiet support and comfort.
- Unpack quietly in their sleeping area.
The cat may require several days or even weeks to get accustomed to a new place; dogs generally adjust more quickly but can still exhibit strange behavior for some time.
Why an Efficient Relocation Eases the Process for Everyone
The best strategy for reducing your pet’s stress during the relocation process is minimizing the disturbance caused by the move itself. This means a team that is timely, efficient, and reliable, and that completes the job in an effective manner, leaving the household in a chaotic state for as little time as possible.
Daymakers provides professional and quality local moves in Roseville, Minneapolis, Saint Paul, and throughout the Twin Cities area.
We also offer packing services that can reduce the number of days your home feels unsettled before moving day. For families moving farther away, our long-distance movers team handles interstate relocations from Minnesota with the same care we bring to local moves.
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