Preparing for a move can seem like a mountain to climb, especially when our four-legged friends are part of the adventure. Stacking boxes and the sound of bubble wrap can be confusing, not only for you, but also for your pets. Their comfort and well-being must not be forgotten in this frenzy. To help you through this transition phase, we’ve collected ten valuable tips from experts, to make the change as smooth as possible for everyone.
Whether you’re moving with a dog, cat or any other animal, here are 10 tips to make the moving process easier for you and your faithful friend!
1. Respect your pet’s routine
Remember to respect and maintain your pet’s routine in the days leading up to the move, and even once you’ve settled into your new home. By respecting mealtimes, ensuring walks, and preserving playtime as well as morning and evening rituals, you’ll help keep him happy and calm throughout the move.
2. Anticipate packaging
If your pet is prone to anxiety about changes in its environment, we recommend starting the packing process well in advance. By gradually integrating cardboard boxes into your daily routine, you can help your companion get used to the changes ahead.
Plus, you’ll thank yourself for having the wisdom to pack ahead when moving day arrives.
3. Arrange daycare for your pet on moving day
Moving day is usually marked by a whirlwind ofstressful activities for you. Taking care of your pet can relieve some of this pressure. Whether you plan to entrust your pet to a daycare center, a pet sitter, a friend or a family member, remember to plan ahead and book their services several weeks in advance!
So you can concentrate on the move, safe in the knowledge that your pet is in good hands.
Tip: During the move, be sure to preserve a cozy space for your pet. If your companion has a favorite bed where he likes to curl up, avoid packing it until you’re ready to leave the old house for good. Once you’ve settled into your new home, give him a cosy corner to arrange his things.
4. Find pet-friendly accommodation
If your move involves staying in a hotel with your pet, it’s a good idea to book ahead to find a pet-friendly establishment. Although most hotels in Switzerland explicitly mention their pet policy on their website, it’s always wise to take any restrictions into account.
Be aware of each hotel’s specific rules to make sure your pet is welcome during your stay.
5. Ask your vet for advice
Remember to consult your current veterinarian to make sure your pet’s vaccinations are up to date, and get a copy of his medical records if you’re moving to another city. Take this opportunity to find out about any health problems your pet may have, and get advice on how to reduce stress during the move.
6. Prepare your pet for the trip
If your pet is traveling by car to your new address, make sure it is equipped with everything it needs to stay safe throughout the journey.
For dogs, provide a cozy bed or blanket and designate a place where they can relax. Cats generally travel well in a cage. For hamsters and guinea pigs, remove any heavy or sharp objects from their cages, ensure sufficient ventilation and shade, and minimize music and noise to avoid frightening them.
For fish, place them in plastic bags containing their aquarium water and sufficient air. Then secure the bags in a polystyrene container to guarantee safe transport of your fish.
If you’re traveling with a bird, fasten its cage with a safety belt and make sure it has sufficient shade and ventilation. Snakes requiring a higher temperature will appreciate heating pads placed near their transport cage.
Board : If your move is long-distance and you decide to use a pet transport company, then give yourself enough time to find a suitable company for your move. Many companies have specific requirements for transporting animals.
7. Design a first-aid kit for your companion
In addition to a supply of food and water, you’ll need the number of a veterinarian on call. Make sure you have a first-aid kit on hand for your pet. Carry it with care during your move, so you don’t have to search frantically through the boxes at the crucial moment.
8. Secure your new home
Before letting your pet discover his new home, be sure to check a few safety points:
- Check that all doors and windows are secured to prevent your pet from escaping.
- Make sure your pet can’t escape from your garden.
- Check window screens for holes.
- Plug up any holes or nooks where your pet could get stuck or injured.
9. Help your pet adapt to his new home
Helping your pet adapt to its new home goes beyond the physical move. It’s essential to support him as he adapts to his new environment. By implementing these simple measures, you can make a real difference to her well-being:
- Set up his living space: make sure his toys and food are always the same, to give him a sense of familiarity and comfort. If your pet needs to explore certain parts of the house, introduce him gradually, giving him access to one or two rooms at a time, while supervising his visits. If your pet goes outside, make sure it is securely tied up to prevent it from escaping after the move.
- Establish a routine for your pet: pets adapt better when they know what to expect, so establish a routine for meals, walks, baths and playtime as soon as possible.
- Plan a visit to the vet once you’ve settled in, to establish a relationship with him and ensure your pet’s well-being in his new environment.
10. Move with peace of mind with Easystock
Pets are often calmer when accompanied by their owners. Easystock makes this experience much easier by taking care of the transportation of your moving equipment. This leaves you free to enjoy your pet until you reach your new home. If you have any questions about travelling with animals, in Switzerland or abroad, please contact us today.
Tip: If you’re also looking fora self-storage solution for your belongings during the move, you can find certified companies in Switzerland that offer convenient moving and storage services.
