MOVING WITH A CAT AND A DOG: TIPS AND TRICKS

There it’s done! You have made the decision to move. You’ve booked your mover, arranged for your new home insurance, and booked a few friends to come and help you unpack your boxes. But have you prepared your pet for the move? Moving with a cat or a dog, sometimes even with both, requires planning. Here are some tips for a peaceful move for both you and your four-legged friend.

MUNICIPAL BY-LAWS AND APARTMENT BUILDINGS

Before choosing your new residence address, it is essential to find out about the regulations surrounding the possession of pets. We all know that the rules tend to change depending on the municipality and the accommodation you are targeting. Some owners of apartment buildings allow dogs, others only cats, while many categorically refuse the presence of any pet.

As for municipalities, some of them refuse pit bulls and Rottweilers and ask owners to equip their animal with a medallion. Thus, in order to avoid choosing a residence or an apartment that cannot accommodate your animal, inform yourself thoroughly before undertaking to move with a dog or a cat.

PREPARING FOR THE MOVE

In parallel with your own move, think about preparing for the move of your pet. If you change region or district and it is impossible for you to keep the same veterinarian, ask him to give you the complete file of your animal. In this way, the new veterinarian you choose will have all the information necessary to take care of your cat or dog.
In addition, in order to properly prepare your pet for the move, let it wander among your moving boxes to get it used to it. Also, do not change his routine despite the fact that you may be somewhat overwhelmed. This will reduce your pet’s anxiety and reassure him.

D-DAY: MOVING WITH A CAT OR A DOG

On the day of the move, in order to facilitate the task of the movers and to ensure the safety of your animal, it is advisable to entrust it to a member of your family or, if this is not possible, to isolate it in a closed room with toys, water, food and litter (if you have a cat).
By doing so, there is less chance that your dog or cat will run away or be injured accidentally. Also remember to bring a cage (if necessary) to transport your animal.
Once at his destination, isolate him again in a room with his toys and hurry to empty the boxes containing his effects. The purpose of this exercise is to reduce your animal’s stress and facilitate its adaptation.

THE NEW RESIDENCE OF YOUR FOUR-LEGGED COMPANION

You are now in your new home. If for you, the adaptation is done in flexibility and very simply, it is different for your animal. To help him get used to his new environment, introduce him to your home or apartment gradually. Make sure he has his own corner. If your pet hides under furniture, that’s normal. Do not worry. The latter will eventually come out when hunger strikes. Giving your cat and dog time to adjust is key. Do not rush anything. If your animal has access to the outdoor yard, be vigilant in the first weeks, because some animals try to find their old home. That’s why it’s important to update your pet’s tag.

Moving with a cat and a dog can be a real challenge. But with these few tips, your move should go a little smoother. If your pet has specific needs, do not hesitate to discuss them with the veterinarian before the move.