Before the move
You may see a change in your pet’s behaviour as you start preparing to relocate; just like us, they can also experience stress when their daily environment and routine is changed.
If you have a dog and are moving to a new neighbourhood, think about introducing them to the surroundings before you move. If it’s close, walk them around the area, so that when you move it won’t be a huge difference.
On moving day
Try to arrange to have your pet looked after until you’ve unpacked in your new home. It will free you up and reduce the stress for everyone. It will also give you a chance to make sure there are no sneaky escape routes from your new home or garden!
If you can’t arrange anything, try to stick to your normal routine on moving day by using the same toys, blankets and even packing their favourite treat.
Settling in
Don’t wash any pet bedding until a few weeks after you’ve moved. This will give them a familiar smell in their new home.
Dogs
- Let them explore each room one by one to get used to those new and interesting smells.
- Allow them to go at their own pace, and make sure you’ve blocked any potential escape routes.
- Reward good behaviour with treats and/or attention.
Cats
- Keep your cat indoors for at least three weeks, then let them go outside for short periods of time. Try not to feed them before you let them out, so they will come back for food!
- Keep them in one room for the first couple of days, with familiar bedding, food and water bowls, litter tray and toys. Then you can slowly introduce them to the rest of their new home.
- Let them explore each room one by one at their own pace (just make sure any sneaky escape routes have been secured).
Although they are in a new environment, your pet will begin to thrive as soon as you get them back into a routine. Sticking to your normal schedule for exercising and feeding once you’ve moved in will help.
Signs of cat and dog anxiety
Keep an eye on your pet’s behaviour once you’ve moved in and take note of any changes – it’s quite common for cats and dogs to become anxious or more reserved than usual – and they might go of their food. If you’re concerned about any of their behaviour, it’s best to contact your local vet.
Also, if your new home has a garden, check it out for any plants that that may be toxic to your pet.
And once you’re settled in, here are some helpful ways to get rid of any pet smells that might pop up!
