Although moving is an exciting time that brings a whole range of new opportunities, it can also be stressful, especially if you’re relocating with a pet. Whether you have a cat, dog, bird, or even a bunny rabbit, our pets need extra love and attention during these trying times. There’s a lot to consider.
But don’t worry – we’ve got you covered. Here are some key considerations for all pet owners when relocating to a new city.
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What Pet Owners Moving to a New City Need to Know
1. The Local Pet Laws and Regulations
No two cities are the same, even when it comes to our pets. Although you may have been able to take your dog for a walk in your local park where you last lived, that might not be the case for the next city you move to. Check out the pet regulations in the new city to find out if they have dog-friendly parks, beaches, and cafes. Are there restrictions on breeds or sizes in certain areas?
Be sure to check out the housing options as well, as some apartment complexes and houses may have restrictions on the types of pets or pets in general, more on that in our next point.
2. Which Neighbors and Apartments Are Pet-Friendly
Speaking of housing, finding the right house or apartment is so important for your pet. And unfortunately, the truth of the matter is that finding the perfect pet rental isn’t always a walk in the park, especially when it comes to more competitive housing markets. The last thing you want to do is stumble on a great neighborhood or apartment, only to find you have to back out at the last minute due to restrictions on pets.
To avoid this issue, we recommend starting your search early and using trusted platforms. If you’re looking for the best platform to find pet-friendly housing options, check out SpareRoom. You can filter out rooms and roommates that aren’t exactly pet-friendly, so you won’t end up disappointed. With detailed listings, you can also see if there are fenced yards, nearby parks or trails, and other things.
3. How Your Pet Will React to Change
All pets react to change differently. Some might take big changes in their stride, whereas for other pets, significant changes like moving can cause them to feel anxious. Do you have a cat who hides when you shift the sofa around, or a dog who doesn’t like noise? No matter your pet’s temperament, it’s important to keep it in mind when moving.
For example, if you choose to move to a big, noisy city after spending years in a quiet town, this might prove to be a big adjustment for your pet. Keep an eye on them during the move and remember to be patient – it might take a while for your furry friend to come around to the idea of a new city.
4. How Transportation Might Affect Your Pet
Travel is something that can make even the most mild-mannered pets anxious. If you’re traveling by car, plan for plenty of bathroom breaks, especially for your dog. Let them out of the car if you can to stretch their legs and get some fresh air. Don’t forget about their food – and also treats to remind them how good they’re being.
When it comes to flying, check out the pet policies well in advance before your flight. You may need to provide health certifications or be aware of policies for pet carriers and cabins. It’s always better to be prepared.
5. Which Pet Essentials to Pack
When you’re packing, it can be super easy to accidentally pack something your pet might need, whether that’s their food bowl or even their favorite cuddly toy. You can avoid this issue altogether by packing a pet essentials kit separately. Add in everything you think your pet might need, including:
● Food
● Bowls
● Treats
● Their favorite blanket
● Poop bags
● Toys
● Medications
If you have a cat, you may even be able to get portable litter boxes while you’re on the road.
6. Your New Vet
That’s right – don’t wait until it’s too late before you join a new veterinary practice. The last thing you want is to find yourself in the middle of an emergency and waste time hunting for a vet that’s accepting new patients – or paying thousands of dollars for emergency care.
Make it a priority to look for a veterinary clinic as soon as possible. Don’t forget to read the reviews and consider visiting in person before signing up. Some vets even offer meet-and-greets before taking on new patients!
7. How to Re-Establish a Familiar Routine
Our pets are happiest when they’ve got a set routine. Think about it – how often has your cat woken you up on a morning to get their breakfast exactly on time? That’s why, when you move to a new city, it’s important to start that routine back up again as soon as possible. That applies to feeding times, playtimes, bedtime, and walks. Familiarity is your best friend when it comes to settling your pet in a completely new environment. They’ll be back to normal in no time.
8. How to Plan for Setbacks
The truth of the matter is that not everything goes to plan. Our pets are living, breathing animals, and they feel deeply. As a result, your pet may experience some regression during a major move. But don’t panic if that happens! A little anxiety is completely normal and usually temporary. Just remember to give your furry friend lots of love, affection, and, you guessed it, patience.
If your pet doesn’t settle or still feels anxious, consult your veterinarian or a professional behaviorist. They may have some advice to help your dog feel more at ease and return to its normal, happy self.
Wrapping Up
Moving home is one of the most significant and stressful life events. When you’re moving with a pet, it can increase the stress even more. However, there are lots of things you can do to ease both your pet’s anxiety and your worried mind.
It’s always best to be prepared to make the transition as smooth as possible. However, it’s also essential to remember that a lot of love and affection can go a long way. Consider the tips above, and your pet will soon feel more at ease.
