Moving is stressful, everyone knows that, but what about those much loved family pets? Not only do they make the situation even more stressful but they may also struggle to adapt to their new home. We rely on our animals to entertain us and keep us company, so we should be particularly aware of how they feel whilst we’re moving home. Not only should you pay attention to their requirements and needs whilst house hunting, you should also be aware of their needs and requirements whilst actually moving from one house to another. From large animals to small, fluffy critters we have a guide to moving home with pets. Everything you need to know to keep them safe, secure and adapting well to their new home, or simple, to keep them out of the way.
Dogs and cats
The simple and best way to move with cats or dogs is to either leave them with a trusted friend or at kennels on the day of the move. Dogs will only get under your feet and want attention, whilst cats will only wander off at the crucial moments. Moving can also be rather stressful for animals; not only will they sense the disruption of a home in boxes, they may sense stress in family members as well as the obvious difficulty in transporting and adjusting to a new home. The best solution is to bring family pets to the new home a day after settling in. Pets will find it much easier to adjust when all the familiar household items are in place, giving them simply the location and the house itself to get used too. It’s important to make it a comfortable move for animals just as much as humans.
Caged animals
Caged animals require much less attention that cats and dogs, but you should always be careful when transporting small pets. Take the time out to clean the cage and complete it with new bedding and food. Ensure your pets have plenty of food and water to keep them going as anything could happen en route to the new house and as ever, it’s best to be safe than sorry. For caged animals you should decide whether you have the space and capability to move them with the family, perhaps in the car as you make your way to the house, or, you could even drop them off quickly before any of the furniture arrives. If doing multiple trips back and forth a perfect solution is to drop off caged pets and a responsible family member. Not only can they get things sorted and look after animals, they can greet the rest of the family with a brew after the last and final trip.
Aquariums
Aquariums are much more difficult to transport and move. Initially, it is best to consult a pet shop with trained experts on aquariums and the types of fish you have. You will need to unplug, empty and clean the cage, which is difficult in itself. After moving, you will also need to set up and reintroduce the fish, which is again, time consuming and hard work. It’s imperative you know what is required and involved from a trained professional. After you know the logistics of the move you should decide whether you will move the aquarium in complete form or as separate parts, as both have their advantages and disadvantages. Make sure there is space ready in the new home so you can get the fish comfortable and at home as soon as possible. If the fish need time to be reintroduced into the aquarium, invest in some separate tanks which can house the fish as you build up you marine life again.
Removals Liverpool is a great company to help if you need to move with animals. Get a quote today!