Tips for helping pets adapt to new surroundings
Pets thrive if they have routines and stability in their lives, just like kids. They follow their human pack and watch the environment for consistency. They want to know they can rely on everyday signs of that consistency. That is how they know what to expect next. The sound of their bowl is filled with food means breakfast and they rush over to eat. When they see you with the leash they are ready for their walk in a matter of seconds. And when you come home from work, it means cuddle time! So when long distance movers Virginia interrupt their steady routine, pets can have a hard time understanding what is going on. A change as big as relocation is will require extra preparation to help your pets adapt to new surroundings. Reduce the anxiety of your pet by following our tips.
One way to help your pets adapt to new surroundings is to avoid the move blues
Moving will be especially stressful for your pets. They have no idea what a move is and why they are changing their environment so suddenly. You can help your pets adapt to new surroundings with these simple steps:
- Update their ID tags and microchip info. Making sure your pet is properly tagged for identification is especially important when they are moving to an unfamiliar neighborhood.
- Provide your pet with a little sanctuary. While we are helping you with moving and storage Baltimore, maybe you could board your dog for a few days. That way they can relax and know that they are still safe even though all of these changes are happening around them.
- Put your pet first. Unpack comfort toys for your pets and amuse them for a little bit. Cater to them before you start unpacking anything else so they would feel at home.
- Exploring new territory will help your pet adapt to new surroundings faster. Take your animal to explore the property and the neighborhood so they’ll know that this is the new kingdom know.
The best way to help your pets adapt to new surroundings is to be prepared
This tip goes hand in hand with keeping a steady routine for your furry member of the family. Staying on the track will be extremely beneficial for your little friend because they feel your love and dedication. That means you walk them at the same time as you always do. Take them for a stroll around the top Baltimore neighborhoods. Reward them and punish them like you always do. Nothing should change, not even their treats! Be prepared while you are on the road relocating, and upon moving in.
Remember to stock up on your pet’s treats on time so you don’t have to worry about rushing out to the store to get a new batch
Make sure you have all of his/her favorites ahead of time. Also don’t pack the food dish, water bowl, bed, crate, toys, the leash and the harness on the moving truck. Remember to take them with you! And if your cat will be traveling with you, while interstate movers Washington DC transport your belongings, you will need the litter and litter box for your beloved pet. A good time to spoil your pet a little bit is during the relocation. Bake a batch of homemade cookies and treat them during the long drive on the way to your new home.
How to help your dog adapt to the new environment after moving in
- Right after you pull up to your new driveway, take your dog to the backyard and encourage him to relieve himself and mark the territory as his.
- Next, take the dog for a tour around the house on a leash. Let him examine the new surroundings, but also show him immediately what the house rules are. In those first days after moving in, keep your dog under constant supervision to make sure he is not upset by the separation.
- Don’t change your dog’s diet for at least two weeks. Your furry pet will know that the schedule is the same as in the former household.
- Let the dog socialize with other dogs in a dog park, an get to know the new neighbors. Even the most social dogs have dominance issues, and they have to work them out. Family dogs can be very possessive of territory or family members. The change in the household may regress their social skills a bit.
Cats are sensitive creatures
Cats are getting attached to their home so change is usually very unsettling to them. The best way for them to adjust to the change of environment is to introduce them to one or two rooms at a time. This will give them a chance (and enough time) to feel safe within new walls. Place their litter box, bed, scratching post, food, and water in the preferred room. Your cat will have the opportunity to investigate new sounds and smells and get accustomed to them. They will soon know that this room is their refuge, a safe place to run to if they feel anxious.
Unlike the process we’ve recommended to go through with dogs, you should unpack most of the house first, before you let your cats investigate the rest of the house. Then let them explore on their own and however, they want. If they want to hide under the bed, let them do it. They’ll come out when they calm down and realize you are not leaving them in a strange house.