Business relocation is stressful for everyone, no way around it. There is a lot to think about, even as you’re all wondering what it will be like in your new home and job. Fortunately, there are ways to reduce moving stress, especially for your kids and pets.When you think about it, there are many similarities in what needs to be done to get children and animals to your new home. At least you can explain things to your children so they know what’s going on, even if they’re small. That makes it a little easier to allay their fears about leaving friends behind and facing something potentially very different in their new home.
Your pets, however, are entirely dependent on you for guidance, and they worry whenever they suspect change is in the air. The only way to reassure them is to be extra-solicitous of their feelings.
Are you moving from one state to another? To a foreign country, perhaps half-way around the world? Taking these steps will make your relocation go more smoothly.
Make sure your pets are good to go.
Depending on where you’re headed, it might not be a good idea to take your dog or cat, as much as you love them. Factors like age, health and breed can affect your pet’s ability to travel. Consider quality of life issues, too – your very large or heavy-coated dog may be distinctly unhappy in a hot climate or small apartment.
Where will you live?
If you're moving from a house to an apartment, that’s a big change. Kids and pets will have to restrict where and how they play. You may find that many potential rentals don’t accept pets – or they only allow dogs but not cats, or only certain breeds or sizes. Finding a place to live may be one of your toughest moving challenges, so getting it out of the way as soon as possible will lift a great weight from your shoulders as you plan the rest of your move.
Is it possible to live in temporary accommodations at first, such as a corporate “suites” style hotel or apartment? That will give you more time to find an ideal place to live long-term, once you’re in place and can see for yourself where things are and how your daily life will flow.
Are there kid- and pet-friendly accommodations nearby?
Schools and parks (for both people and dogs) are must-haves. You’ll also want to look into potential doctors and veterinarians before you go. You certainly don’t expect something to go wrong the minute you arrive, but having contact information in hand will boost your peace of mind. It’s a good idea to visit the new doc and vet soon anyway, for a meet-and-greet when everyone is calm rather than in the midst of an emergency.
Make sure you have all your children’s medical information in hand when you move. Your pets will require multiple forms of health-related documentation in order to meet national or international animal transport regulations. Some of this paperwork can take weeks to obtain.
If there is any likelihood you’ll be working late, expected to attend business dinners or other events, etc. you’ll need a babysitter and perhaps a pet-sitter/walker, too. A good source for recommendations will be your co-workers who have already made the move. While you’re at it, ask them about kids’ groups or doggie play groups that might be appropriate for your two and four-legged children.
Call on a pro to plan your pet’s travel.
Along with figuring out where you will live, figuring out how to get dogs and cats from Point A to Point B is a serious challenge. The farther you’re moving, the more complex it can be, especially if your relocation is international. You have enough on your mind trying to get your kids and your stuff organized. Allowing a pet shipping expert to plan and execute your pet's move will eliminate a huge stressor, and it will save you many hours of research, running around and frustration.
Thank the tax man (there’s a first time for everything).
Yes, indeed, here’s a stress-reliever you can easily appreciate: the expense of relocating for business is generally tax-deductible, and that includes costs of relocating your pets. Nice. Be sure to discuss this with your accountant or tax advisor as you’re planning your move.
The sooner you’re able to establish a new routine in your new home, the more it will help both kids and pets settle in comfortably so you can start enjoying your new surroundings. The key to arriving at that point as stress-free as possible is to start planning early. You’ll have fewer surprises, and you can focus on being excited about the “adventure” aspects of your relocation.
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.