A curious dachshund peeks from a cardboard box.

6 Tips for Moving with Pets


Moving to a new home can be a thrilling adventure, but it can also be stressful, especially when you're bringing along your beloved pets. For your furry, feathered, or scaled friends, the experience can be unsettling. To help make your move as smooth as possible for your pets, read on for a comprehensive guide filled with tips and advice to ensure everyone, including your pets, settles into your new home in Tarrytown with ease.

1. Preparation is Key

Start Early

Begin your preparations several weeks in advance. This gives you ample time to take care of your pets’ needs along with your moving logistics. Make a checklist specific to your pet that includes updating their tags and microchip information, scheduling veterinary visits, and researching pet regulations and amenities in your new area.

Visit the Vet

A check-up before moving is essential, especially if you're moving out of the area. Ensure that your pet is up to date on vaccinations, discuss any travel-related concerns with your vet, and obtain a health certificate if you’re moving to another state. This is also a good time to refill any prescriptions and ask for recommendations for a new vet near your new home in Tarrytown.

2. Keeping Them Comfortable

Familiar Surroundings

To help ease the transition, keep your pet’s routine as normal as possible in the days leading up to the move. Maintain regular feeding times, walks, naptime, and playtime. During the packing process, gradually introduce your pet to moving supplies like boxes and tape. Place a few boxes around the house early so your pet can get used to the sights and smells.

A Safe Space

During the chaos of the moving day, the best place for your pets is away from all the action. If possible, designate a quiet room in your home where they can stay until everything is packed into the moving truck. This room should have all the essentials they need, such as bedding, food, water, toys, and litter boxes for cats.

3. On the Move

Travel Comfort

If you’re traveling by car, plan for frequent stops to allow your pet to stretch. For air travel, check with the airline ahead of time for pet policies and prepare an approved carrier. Regardless of how you travel, make sure your pet has comfortable bedding and that their carrier is well-ventilated and secure.

Keep Them Safe

A properly fitted pet harness or appropriately sized carrier is crucial during the move. These keep your pets safe and prevent anxious animals from escaping when front doors or car windows are open. Never let your pet ride in the open bed of a truck or moving van.

4. Acclimating to the New Surroundings

Gradual Introduction

Once in your new home in Tarrytown, resist the urge to let your pet explore the entire property right away. Set up a familiar space with their favorite items first. Gradually introduce them to other areas of the home as they adjust. Outdoor pets, especially cats, should be kept indoors for at least a few weeks so that they can adapt to their new environment safely.

Exploration and Safety

Ensure your new home is safe for exploration. Check for any potential escape routes or hazardous areas before letting your pet roam. Supervise initial explorations of the new home to ensure their safety.

5. Maintaining Routine and Health

Routine Matters

Stick to the regular feeding, walking, and playtime schedule as closely as possible once you move. This consistency helps your pets feel safe and reassured. Additionally, monitor their behavior closely. Some pets might show signs of stress or anxiety, such as hiding more than usual, changes in eating habits, or unexpected aggression.

Veterinary Follow-Up

Once you are settled into your new environment, introduce your pet to their new vet. This establishes a point of contact in case of an emergency and helps ensure that your pet maintains optimal health. Provide the new vet with records from your previous vet to keep your pet’s medical history consistent.

6. Extra Love and Attention

Moving is hard on everyone, pets included. Give them extra attention and reassurance throughout the moving process. Extra cuddles, treats, and play sessions can go a long way in helping your pet adjust. Remember, they look to you for comfort and reassurance.

Moving with pets requires extra planning and consideration, but with these tips, you can help ease the transition for your furry pals. Remember, every pet is different, and each will adjust at their own pace. Patience, care, and attention will help your pets settle into their new home in Tarrytown happily. Here's to new beginnings with your beloved pets!

Begin your journey in Westlake, Rollingwood, Lake Austin, and Tarrytown real estate with Mike Mogavero & Christen Lowe of The Agency Austin + MOLO Group today.



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