A Guide to Moving With Pets:   Furry Friends, New digs:

So, you're moving! An exciting new chapter, but for our furry (or feathery) companions, it can be a stressful experience. Fear not, pet-owning pals! With some planning and TLC, you can ensure a smooth move for everyone involved.

Preparation is Key

• Update Pet Info: Ensure your pet's ID tags and microchip information are current with your new address and phone number.
• Schedule a Checkup: Visit your vet for a general health check and discuss any travel plans or anxieties your pet might have.
• Research New Locale: Are there pet-friendly parks and walking routes near your new home? Familiarize yourself with local veterinary clinics and pet stores.
• Pack a "Pet Emergency Kit": Include essentials like food, water bowls, a leash, waste bags, medications, favorite toys, and a calming blanket.

Creating a Calm Move

• Get Packing (Smartly): Introduce packing boxes gradually to avoid startling your pet. Let them sniff and explore the boxes to normalize them.
• Maintain Routine: As much as possible, stick to your pet's regular feeding, walking, and playtime schedules during the packing process.
• Designated Safe Haven: On moving day, create a quiet room with familiar items like bedding, toys, and a water bowl. This will provide a comforting space for your pet amidst the chaos.

New Home, New Sniffs

• Explore First: Before letting your pet loose, do a walk-through of the new home to ensure everything is secure. Check windows, fences, and potential hiding spots to prevent escapes.
• Familiar Scents: Unpack your pet's belongings first, including their bed, toys, and food bowls. This will help them feel comfortable in their new environment.
• Gradual Exploration: For leash-trained pets, a supervised walk around the new neighborhood is a great way to introduce them to their surroundings. Keep an eye out for unfamiliar sights or sounds that might spook them.
• Patience is Key: Adjusting to a new home takes time for pets. Be patient with them and provide plenty of love and reassurance during this transition.

Bonus Tip: Moving with Cats? Cats are particularly sensitive to change. Consider setting up a "cat room" in your new place with familiar items and vertical spaces for them to climb and perch. Feliway diffusers, which release calming pheromones, can also help ease feline anxiety.

Moving with pets requires extra planning, but with these tips, you can ensure a smooth transition for your furry (or feathery) family members. Remember, a happy pet makes a happy move!

If you have any questions you may email Guy@RealEstateGuy.net or call Guy at 608-513-1123 to discuss your plans.