Even in the ideal move where everything goes perfectly, moving is stressful. This is even more true for our pets than it is for us. True, they don’t have to worry about finding a house under budget or figure out how to take the bed frame apart without breaking it, but they also have no context for what’s going on. All they know is that everything is changing, and they don’t like it. Gary the office hamster isn’t gonna drive himself, after all. Here are some sure tips for moving with your pet!

Tools for Moving Day

On moving day, there are tools you should be sure you have to keep your pet safe and happy despite the stress. First, consider investing in some CBD-infused oil for your furry friend. High-quality CBD oil can calm them down and make the day easier on them, emotionally.

You should also be sure to have a good crate or carrier, or else a reliable leash and harness for your friend. Moving day is a high-risk event when it comes to pet escapes. Plenty of cats and dogs take their chance to explore the world on moving day — an especially risky day since they won’t know where home is anymore. Only take them out to bring them to a pet sitter, keep with their usual walk routine, or go to the new home.

Should You Hire a Pet Sitter?

There’s no hard and fast rule when it comes to hiring a pet sitter for moving day. Ultimately, it all comes down to what will be best for your pet in particular. If your furry friend is super outgoing, then odds are they won’t respond well to getting shut into a room away from all the people and activity of the move. For this kind of pet, a pet sitter or pet daycare might be your best bet. This way they’ll be attended and entertained, ensuring the move goes smoothly.

If your pet is shy about strangers, however, it may make the most sense to sequester them in a designated room for the duration of the move. Inform anyone helping you move — including any professional movers — and put a note on the door to remind everyone not to open the door. Include food and water, as well as a litter box if you have a cat. Create a similar room in your new home; when you’re ready to move your furry friend, you can take them straight from one safe room to the next!

Adjusting to Your New Home

Finally, make some allowances to ensure your pet has a smooth, low-stress introduction to your new home. The best approach will depend on your pet’s temperament. Cats tend to do best by starting in one room. Let them get used to that space for a few hours, then open the door so they can explore the rest of the house on their own terms.

Dogs appreciate a safe room too, but many canines will want to explore the rest of the house right away. If the moving is finished and it’s safe to do so, let them roam. Otherwise, an accompanied, leashed tour while the movers take a break can satisfy their urge to smell absolutely everything, at least for a little while. Dogs often like to “mark their territory”, especially in a new space so keep an eye on Fido!

Getting settled into a new home is a big adjustment, so it may take your furry friend a couple of weeks to get back to their normal routine. Give them lots of love – and space – as needed. With time, you and your pet will feel right at home.

Thanks to guest blogger Cindy Aldridge of www.ourdogfriends.org