They say never work with animals or children because you never know what is going to happen – and the same could be said for when you’re taking on a house move.
This is a time when you want as little stress as possible, and there are some ways that you can make it easier (and reduce the stress for you and your pets):
Arrange a pet sitter
Do you have anyone that your pet is comfortable being with? Maybe you’ve used doggy day care or you have family members who are happy to look after your guinea pig for a little while. Wherever it is, if you are moving nearby, having some time to get yourself settled can help make the move less stressful for them.
Put them in a different area
If you are moving further afield and it’s not possible to put your pet with someone nearby, then it’s best to set your pet up with its own area. This ensures that the removal team has a clear route, and your pet may be less stressed in amongst all the movement as it can have its own things around and be in a place that is still familiar.
Getting them settled
In much the same way as you will want them to be as comfortable as possible in the place you’re leaving, you’ll want them to be comfortable in the place that you’re going – so be sure to set them up straight away. Fill the area with familiar things, so they feel that their home has moved with them. While you will be busy unpacking and getting yourself settled, be sure to check in on them regularly.
Keep consistent as much as you can
As well as a pet having things that it is comfortable with, they will also have a routine that they are used to. Try to establish that as soon as you can in your new home.
Keep the cat in the home
This may not sound like fun, but it can be better than any alternative, as they can become more stressed and want to head back to their old territory. Try to keep them in for a week, to get them settled. It’s also worth telling your old neighbours that you will be moving, so they can let you know if your cat does head back to your old home.
Don’t forget to tell your removal company
If you’re moving a pet spider and will want a hand with that, please let your removal company know! Or if you have tanks and equipment that will need to be moved, it will need to be added into your estimate for the move. It’s also helpful to let a removal company know where a pet is so that they don’t accidentally let it out.
Would you like help with your move?
If you would like to talk through your move or get a quote, please get in touch to talk through your options and how we can help.