Agitation around them, arrival in a new environment, loss of bearings … pets can feel some kind of stress or anxiety during a move. Here are some tips and advice on how to prepare them better.
By Le Figaro
Released
This content is not available.
A move is not a trivial event for your dog, cat or any other pet. How to prepare it?
Before the move
Expectation. This is the key word to respect when preparing to move with a pet. If the situation allows it, it is recommended to visit the new home with your animal a few days before the move, to make him discover the places without disturbing his daily life too much. However, this is not always possible (rejection of the residents, geographical distance, etc.). In any case, it is advisable to anticipate the move:
This content is not available.
- by gradually preparing the boxes (to reduce the anxiety about the move on D-Day which could stress him);
- by maintaining his habits;
- keep his possessions in their place until the last moment.
In general, it is advisable to involve your little companion in your moving project. The mistake would be to put him aside, at the risk of evoking a sense of abandonment in him. Before you move, you should also think about all the administrative procedures (change of address, change of vet, etc.) that you will need to carry out for your pet.
D-day
As far as possible, it is advisable to leave your pet with a trusted person (a family member he already knows) who can take care of him while you load/unload/unpack the boxes. This will avoid communicating your own stress to him. If this is not possible, keep him away from all commotion until the last minute, for example by reserving a quiet room for him. Always have his favorite toys and things he can relate to with him. For a move by car, multiple stops in case of a long journey. For a move by public transport, you must anticipate the limitations associated with this type of transport.
READ ALSO – How do I get my dog into his transport box?
After the move
After the move, your pet enters an adjustment period. The first step is to accompany him in the discovery of his new environment, by reassuring him, by being present…, while giving him more or less freedom to acquire new landmarks. If you are moving with a dog, for example, you must multiply the excursions on a leash in your new neighborhood to get him used to the place.
The other essential thing to do is to quickly supply him with his goods and accessories (blankets, toys, etc.) and renew his habits (meal times, outings, etc.). Finally, do not be surprised if your pet changes its behavior during this phase of acclimatization to its new environment. Only a lasting change in behavior the day after a move should worry you and prompt you to consult a vet.
