MOVING? BE SURE TO THINK OF YOUR PETS

If you’re moving to a new home in the coming weeks or months and own one or more pets, here are a few tips to consider. They will help ensure that your move goes smoothly and that your pets can more easily adapt to their new environment.

• The first thing to do is find out about current pet regulations in the borough or municipality you are moving to. Some boroughs require a licence or proof of sterilization for example.
• Think about the actual move: will your pets need a sedative if they generally have a nervous personality? Do you have a suitable cage? To avoid putting added stress on your pets, you can board them for a few days or leave them with someone you trust.
• It goes without saying that your moving day will involve lots of coming and going, which translates into doors being left open. To ensure your pets don’t accidentally escape on moving day, leave them in a closed room with their food, toys and other familiar items, or leave them with a friend or family member.
• In the days and weeks following your move, make sure your pets still have their favourite items in the new home: cushions, food and water bowls, toys, etc. Let them become comfortable in their new environment by feeling reassured at the sight of the things they know.
• Don’t leave your cat or dog alone for too long in the days following your move; they may feel abandoned and try to escape or they may cause damage to your home.
• Cat owners: don’t let your cats outside in the weeks following your move. Cats are very territorial and tend to try to find their way back to their former home. Wait until they consider their new home their real home.

With these tips and lots of love, your pets will better tolerate the changes associated with moving… and so will you! Good luck with your move!

Source:  centris.ca