Short or Long Distance Moving Can Be Hard on Animals

Pets can easily become stressed and anxious during home moves. An animal that is prone to anxiety may shake, scratch or chew on furniture, or relieve itself inappropriately. Using these tips from a Oakland moving company can keep your pet’s transition as painless as possible:

• Take your dog on long walks. Exercise can ease an animal’s anxiety. If possible, try walking your dog in your new neighborhood a few times before the move to help him or her get used to the sights and sounds around your new home.

• Stick to a routine. Dogs and cats are creatures of habit, and they thrive on routine. Keep your pet’s eating, sleeping, and exercise routines as close to normal as possible during the course of a move.

• Ensure your dog’s tags are up-to-date. Dogs sometimes run off or get lost in the bustle of a move. It is best to keep your dog secure in a crate while moving. If that isn’t possible, current tags will ensure that a lost dog can be easily returned to you. You might also talk to your vet about electronically “tagging” your pet.

• Keep familiar items around your cat. Cats often respond negatively to big changes. Make your cat’s transition seamless by providing familiar comfort items, such as a mouse toy or special blanket.

• Expect some strange or unpleasant behavior during and after the transition… and prepare for it. Even the most tempered and trusted pet can be thrown off by a short or long distance move and engage in behaviors like peeing outside of a litter box or barking aggressively at new neighbors. You can’t predict what these behaviors might be, but budget some time and energy to deal with them so you won’t be caught by surprise.

Bay Area Residential Movers Can Help

Movers N Shakers understands the unique needs of those who move with pets, and our trusted team of interstate movers (based in Pleasant Hill, California) can work with you to make your and your pet’s experience as stress-free as possible. Call us at 877-797-4253.