How to Calm a Pet During a Move

For most people moving is a hectic, frustrating time that can result in increased stress prior to and on the actual day. As difficult as this may be for humans, it can be especially hard for the family pet who does not understand the changes or the additional activity that is occurring. To cope with this it is important to help your pet remain calm during this period of change.

1. Decide where the best location is for your pet before the day of the move. If necessary ask a friend, family member or neighbor who is not helping you during the actual moving process to pet sit. Take your pet to the pet sitter before the movers arrive and the actual moving begins. If you do not have anyone to sit your pet, find a location in your house that can act as a safe haven for the dog and surround it with familiar items such as its bedding, a litter box if necessary and toys. Save this area for last when moving. 


2. Don't avoid your pet. There are a lot of changes occurring around it and depending on what type of pet you have it needs a certain amount of reassurance from you. Keep your pet's usual routine. Although you are busy during the moving process, try to feed it on time, walk it if necessary and show it an adequate amount of affection. 


3. Stay calm yourself. Animals, particularly dogs and cats are sensitive to the emotions of their owners and react accordingly. If you are upset during the move this may agitate and excite the animal. 


4. Transport your pet in the same manner that you would under normal circumstances. For example, if you have a dog who is not accustomed to traveling in a carrier or a crate, don't attempt to put him in one during the move - this will agitate him more than what is necessary. Transporting a cat is often more difficult so it is important not to worsen the situation by attempting to force it into its carrier. On the day of the move keep the carrier in plain sight with familiar items inside. Gently coax the cat inside and reward it with a favorite cat treat. 


5. Familiarize your pet with its new surroundings slowly. For dogs, walk it through the empty house on a leash before you begin to move your furniture in. 


6. Place dogs, cats or other animals in a quiet room with their belongings as the moving truck is unloaded. This prevents your pet from running out the front door and/or potentially getting hurt. Provide food, water and a litter box. Take your dog outside to the place where you want it to urinate before leaving it in a quiet location in the new home. Continue to give your pet an adequate amount of attention and affection until the moving is complete.