Moving can be stressful for the whole family – including your pets! Read on for tips to minimize stress for your pets. 

Before we dive in, here are a few things to consider if you’re thinking about moving soon. Read more here.

Prep for the Move

First figure out how you’ll be transporting your pet to your new home. If you’re flying you’ll need to look into airline regulations which will guide you in any health certificates or carriers you may need. Larger animals will have to be stowed and their kennels must be approved by International Air Transport Association rules. It’s important to note that most airlines will not stow a dog or cat that is under sedative medication as the effects can be unpredictable at high altitudes. If you will be stowing your animal, plan ahead for getting your animal acclimated to the kennel, as well as ensuring comfortable bedding. You’ll also want to discuss with your vet an appropriate feeding schedule. 

If you’ll be driving it’s a good idea to map out stopping points for potty breaks. If you’re staying in a hotel be sure to check the animal policy! It’s also a good idea to look up a vet along the route in case of emergency. If your animal is not fond of the car, you’ll want to try to acclimate your pet with some practice spins. 

Keep reading these posts to learn more about moving to the DMV:

• The Ultimate Guide to Moving to Alexandria, VA
• Demystifying the DMV: What to Know Before You Move Here
• Your Complete Moving Shopping List

Test out the New Neighborhood (If You Can)

Take your pet for a couple of walks around their new neighborhood if you’re moving somewhere close to get your pet acclimated. The more your animal is familiar with your new neighborhood/home the less dramatic the move will be. 

Scope Out Potential Problems

Slippery floors can be uncomfortable for animals (especially older ones), so you’ll want to pick up some rugs or mats to be prepared. 

On Moving Day

Keep your pets in a safe place away from all of the commotion on moving day. This can be distressing for your pet, but they also have the opportunity to slip out if they aren’t monitored. It’s a good idea to leave your pet with trusted family or friends who the animal is familiar with or keep them in their new designated place in their new home where they can start to claim the space as their own. 

Learn more about buying and selling real estate when you have pets:

• House Hunting with Pets: Our Top Tips
• What to Do with Pets When Selling a Home
• Is Alexandria Pet-Friendly?

Once You’re In Your New Home

Try to keep some threads of familiarity for your pets – pets love routine (especially in a new environment)! Try to feed, walk, play, etc. at the same time as usual. And make sure their favorite toys etc. are readily available (not buried at the bottom of one of your moving boxes). Also a white noise machine or calming music can help lessen anxiety if moving to a more noisy area. Try to set up your environment to mitigate any undesirable behavior ahead of time. Finally, you should let your pet settle in for a couple of days before hosting any welcome parties. 

Click here to read about our best tips for moving with kids! 

___

We’re realtors serving the DC Metro Area who love sharing everything about where we live and the neighborhoods we explore. Follow along by signing up for our weekly newsletter with local favorites and the latest and greatest in real estate.  

If you’re looking to buy or sell in Northern Virginia, DC, or suburban MD, we’d love to help. Contact us today! You can call us directly at 703-362-3221, email us at sue@thegoodhartgroup.com or allison@thegoodhartgroup.com.