Help & Advice.

If you’ve a four-legged friend then moving house will need some extra planning and preparation to ensure their safety and well-being. Our Open Door team have a number of moggies and pooches between them so they know a thing or two about how to make moving with pets as stress free as possible. Here are their top tips: 

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1. Notify your vet: A good starting point if you’re moving out of the area is to let your vet know about your upcoming move and ask for any necessary records and medications. If you're moving to a new area, ask for recommendations for a new veterinarian. 

2. Update identification and microchip information: It’s important to make sure your pet's identification tags are up to date with your new address and contact information. If your pet is microchipped, contact the microchip company to update your details. 

 

3. Keep your pets secure during the move: On moving day, consider confining your pets to a secure, quiet room or using a crate to keep them safe and prevent them from getting stressed or running away. Make sure they have food, water, and familiar items like bedding or toys. 

 

4. Prepare a pet travel kit: Pack a separate bag or box for your pet with essential items like food, water, bowls, medication, toys, and a familiar blanket or bed. Having these items readily available will help keep your pet comfortable during the journey. 

 

5. Plan transportation for your pets: Determine how you will transport your pets to your new home. If traveling by car, ensure that your pets are secured with proper restraints or in a well-ventilated crate. If flying, research airline pet policies and book in advanc 

 

6. Research pet-friendly options at your new location: Prioritize finding pet-friendly accommodation at your new location. Check local regulations and restrictions related to pets and research nearby parks, veterinary clinics, and pet services. 

 

7. Introduce your pets to their new home gradually: When you arrive at your new home, give your pets time to adjust. Confine them to a single room at first, gradually introducing them to the rest of the house. Make sure they have their familiar items and establish a routine to help them feel secure. 

 

8. Pet-proof your new home: Before your pets explore the new space, make sure it's safe for them. Secure any potential hazards, check for open windows or doors, and install necessary pet gates or fences. 

 

9. Stick to familiar routines: Try to maintain your pets' regular feeding, walking, and playtime schedules as much as possible. Familiar routines can help reduce their stress and anxiety during the transition. 

 

10. Provide extra care and attention: Moving can be stressful for pets, so give them extra love, attention, and reassurance during the transition. Spend quality time with them, comfort them, and allow them time to acclimate to their new surroundings. 

 

Remember, every pet is different, so be patient and understanding throughout the moving process. By planning ahead and considering your pets' needs, you can help them have a smoother transition to their new home.