The Renters’ Rights Act may have smoothed the way for tenants to have pets in their rented properties, but whether you’re a tenant or homeowner, upping sticks with the family pet can be far from plain sailing – as Hayward Moon’s Laura Palmer explains.
Moving house can be a stressful time for pets and they may need some time to adjust. Stress and excitement from their family, new smells as well as new noises and neighbours are all things that can affect our beloved furry family members.
All pets are individuals and each one will react differently to the changes in their lifestyle and routine. Here are some top tips for moving house with pets.
Before moving day:
- Get them used to the carrier
Start this a few weeks before you move if your pet is not used to being in their carrier. Encourage your pet to use their carrier or crate for travel by placing treats inside it, and get them used to being in the carrier and being picked up and moved around.
- Arrange pet care
Arrange for your pet to stay at a friend’s house, a boarding kennel or cattery, or with a pet-sitter to minimise their exposure to the chaos of the move. It would be ideal if you can arrange for your pet(s) to spend the completion day with a trusted friend, family member, or boarding facility.
- Speak to your vet
Take your pet to your vet to ensure their vaccinations are up to date. Your vet will also be able to give advice on calming products like pheromone diffusers or medication.
- Pack your pet’s essentials last
Pack your pet’s food, water bowls, bedding, and favourite toys last so they are the first things you find when you unpack in your new home.
After the Move
- Create a safe space
Set up a ‘safe space’ – a quiet room for your pet with their bed, toys and food bowls so they have a familiar area in the new home. If your dog is crate trained, set their crate up somewhere quiet where they can take themselves out of the way if they need to.
- Check your boundaries
Before letting your pet out for the first time, check your boundary fences and make sure there are no gaps or places that they can escape from.
- Update pet details
Ensure your pet’s microchip and collar tag are updated with your new contact details.
- Maintain routine
As much as you are able to, stick to your pet’s usual mealtimes and walking routine to provide a sense of security.
- Gradual exploration
Once your pets are settled, allow them to explore the new home and garden. Let them explore at their own pace.
- Keep cats indoors
Aim to keep your outdoor cat indoors for at least a few weeks to help them adjust to their new surroundings before allowing them to go outside. There is lots of advice online about how you can encourage your feline friend to feel safe in their new environment and learn where their new home is, so they can make it back safely.
- Be patient
Allow your pet plenty of time to adjust to the new home and use their favourite treats or food to tempt them back if they feel nervous. Be prepared that if they are anxious, even a well house-trained pet may need to take a step back in their toilet training.
- Register with a new vet
Find and register your pet with a new vet in the local area, so you are prepared for any eventualities.
Finally, try and keep their routine consistent with mealtimes and walks. Once in the new home, gradually introduce your pet to their surroundings. Keeping cats indoors for several weeks initially can help them to adjust.
With your care and support your pets will adjust to your new home in no time.
Laura Palmer is a dog owner and Conveyancing Executive for Hayward Moon.
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