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Moving to a new home stirs up many emotions and often creates stress for the entire family, including your pets. Here are some helpful tips from Hughes Relocation Services on how to move your pet peacefully.

Acclimate Your Pet

Get your pet accustomed to moving boxes and packing supplies. Before moving day arrives, pack a few household belongings into boxes. Leave the cardboard bins open for your pet to explore. At first, your cat or dog may appear concerned or enjoy attacking tissue paper and jumping in and out of boxes. However, after a while, they probably won’t notice the boxes as a point of concern.

Away From Commotion

It doesn’t matter how organized you are. Getting a household ready to move creates piles of boxes or partially disassembled furniture, which creates small crevices for pets to hide. A hidden pet is out of sight and in potential danger. Keep your pet out of the commotion of packing, especially on the moving day.

Ensure your pet has a comfortable, safe, and secluded spot out of the way. Place their favorite toy, blanket, food bowl, crate, or pet bed in a safe place out of the hustle and bustle yet still within earshot, so they know they are not being forgotten or left behind.

Pet-Friendly Accommodations

The safest way to transport your pet is with you. If your move will take more than a day, make reservations at pet-friendly hotels or temporary housing.

Also, pack an emergency moving bag for your pet. Include water bowls, a favorite toy, a blanket, food, treats, and cleanup materials like paper towels and disposable bags.

Don’t forget to immediately pet-proof your new home, and do not let your pet out of their kennel or cage until everything is secure.

Contact Your Vet

Ensure your pet is in good health before moving to find a new vet. Verify that all vaccinations are up to date, and obtain the most recent rabies certificate. Ask for your pet’s medical records and ensure you stock up on any prescriptions.

Don’t forget to update their tags or microchip information upon arrival at the new home.

Other Pets

Of course, not every pet is a dog or a cat. Understand your unique pet’s specific needs. For instance, if you have a bird, put a blanket over the cage to lessen the stress. Take extra care to make sure they don’t fly away.

If you are transporting fish, place them in bags filled with their old tank water.

If you are moving with guinea pigs, be very careful with handling and transporting them in a warm, comfortable carrier since their hearts are fragile.

Ask For Help

Please don’t feel like you must do it alone when preparing for a move. Know when to ask for help. Let the expert movers in Glenside, PA, or a skilled moving company on the Main Line help with your next move. Contact us today!