Introducing your pet to a new home can be a lesson in patience. Whether you’re bringing home a newly-adopted dog or cat, or you’re moving with your four-legged family member to a new house or city, relocating can be tougher on your pet than you may realize.
If your family is moving overseas, it’s highly likely you’ll be living in an apartment or smaller quarters than you’ve been used to. So not only is it all new, it’s very different in other ways. There may be no personal yard to play in. Or you may be moving to a foreign city where cats aren’t allowed to roam free outdoors. Knowing what you and your pet will face will during an international move will help both of you acclimate smoothly.
Remember that moving is stressful
Consider how stressful moving is for you, with all the mess and confusion. Now imagine that your pet doesn’t comprehend what’s going on. They look to you for guidance. Amid this chaos, it's essential to maintain a Zen-like calm and a sense of humor, even when faced with misbehaviors related to the move such as:
- “Forgetting” their training
- Exhibiting strange behaviors in their new environment
- Going to the bathroom indoors
- Irritability
- Frequent or extended hiding
These behaviors should be short-lived as they settle into their new home. However, do have some patience since pets can take days, weeks, or even months to adjust to new surroundings. If you have serious concerns, be sure to bring them to a local vet just to be sure. We also have another blog post with some other ways to reduce stress on your pet during a move.
Help your pet become comfortable
Easing your pet's anxiety can also help you relax. Isn't that a wonderful motivation? Let’s get started.
Most dogs are quite adventurous, so your furry friend might not hesitate to explore their new surroundings. However, you can still make it a fun experience for them. Cats, on the other hand, typically dislike change. You’ll need to be more attentive to how your cat reacts to the move and exercise additional patience as they adapt.
- It's recommended to initially confine both cats and dogs after a move. Establish a “safe haven” for them, whether it's a room you can close off or a crate if your dog is crate-trained.
- Gradually introduce them to the rest of your home. If you have a dog, keep them with you inside, allowing them to explore under your supervision. Your presence is comforting to them – it assures them you haven’t left them behind.
- Get them back into a routine. Maintaining a regular schedule helps pets, especially dogs, expect predictability and lowers anxiety.
- Keep dogs on leash while exploring their new surroundings outdoors.
- Provide them with regular exercise and playtime.
Maintain familiarity & be patient
A new space can be overwhelming for pets, so try to keep their home setup as close to what they're used to as possible. Use familiar items like their food and water bowls, bedding, and toys.
If possible, set up play sessions with neighboring pets. It's beneficial for your new neighbors to become familiar with your pet, and especially for dogs, friendly and structured introductions can help prevent territorial issues.
Proceed slowly. Keep in mind that you are the most important part of your pet’s life. Your love and patience can greatly ease your pet’s adjustment to their new environment. Spending extra time petting, playing, or simply sitting together can reassure your pet that they are secure and loved in their new home. This will also make you feel more at ease.
Starwood Animal Transport has rebranded to Starwood Pet Travel. We are still the same great company with the best team, just now with a slightly different name.