Having a pet is like having a baby. The only difference is that this baby has limited learning capabilities and will most likely only grow up to the age of 3. Nevertheless, the happiness that a pet brings to one’s life is unparalleled. Ask any pet owner about their fur baby, and you will immediately see their eyes light up with adoration and joy.
However, being a pet owner comes with certain responsibilities, such as prioritizing the well-being of your little friend at all times, including when planning a move.
Moving out of Houston with a Pet
Making a long-distance move can be quite difficult with a pet in tow, especially since you’re planning to move out of Houston, a certified pet-friendly city. The city prides itself on establishments and facilities designed to accommodate pets, such as restaurants, residential communities, parks, and even airports. Therefore, moving out of Houston can be challenging for pet owners.
However, you can easily get through this ordeal with the right preparation and care. To assist you during this time, we’ve compiled a list of helpful tips for long-distance moves with pets.
Find the Right Transportation or Moving Company
The first thing you need to figure out is the mode of travel for your pet. You can take your pet in the car for moves to nearby cities such as Lafayette or Austin. However, for anything longer than three hours, the distance might be too long for your little friend, and issues such as car anxiety and nature calls may make the journey too difficult to manage. The alternative is air travel. However, there is a lot of red tape surrounding pet air travel which is a nightmare.
The better option is to look for a Houston long-distance moving company to facilitate moving with a pet to your destination. Besides, you can opt for a pet relocation company that can take the stress of transporting your pet buddy off your head. That means you’ll hand over your pet to the relocation company, and they’ll deliver them to your doorstep in the new place.
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Prepare Your Pet for the Transition
As discussed above, a long-distance move could be tough for your pet. As a pet-friendly city, Houston offers plenty of outdoor pet activities and restaurants that allow you to bring your furry friend along. If you’re moving to Texas, you might find a similar environment. However, it is unlikely for an out-of-state destination to match the pet-friendly environment of Houston.
Therefore, it is important to prepare your pet for the transition. As much as it may pain you, if you’re moving to an apartment building in a city where there aren’t many outdoor activities for pets, you should start reducing your pet’s outdoor time. This way, the move won’t hit your little friend.
Check with your Veterinarian
Your pet’s regular vet is much like a family doctor. Having cared for your pet for years, your vet is an expert on your little friend’s health. Visit the veterinarian clinic and tell your vet about your upcoming relocation plans. Based on this, ask whether there is anything you need to worry about and any precautions to take for transporting your pet. Your pet’s health is not something to take lightly, and a final sign-off from the vet will help put your mind at ease.
Further, make sure you ask for copies of your pet’s medical history from the vet so you have a record available to show to the new vet. If you have the time, make a final trip to a pet groomer.
Consider a Temporary Accommodation for your Pet
The moving process is stressful and exhausting for everyone, including pets. Animals generally form a strong attachment to their home, especially the domestic ones. They are not open to such changes. Cats and dogs especially experience severe anxiety during the packing and moving process. Moving your pet to another place may be better while you deal with the packing.
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If a friend or family member is open to taking in your pet for a couple of nights, you can take their help. By being around a familiar face, your pet will also be able to relax, despite being away from home.
However, if nobody can keep your pet temporarily, you can plan their stay at a pet hotel. Pet hotels are boarding facilities for pets and generally offer quite a luxurious experience to these guests.
Pack your Pet’s Stuff at the End
Much like children, pets’ needs must be met without any delay. If they’re hungry, you have a few minutes to give them food before they start nibbling on the sofa. If they need to use the litter box, it’s a 5 to 10-minute window before they decide to relieve themselves in the money plant. Therefore, an essential tip for a long-distance move with a pet is to pack their stuff at the very end. This way, you can easily unpack their stuff when you reach your destination.
Additionally, in case you decide to put your pet in a pet hotel or use the services of a pet relocation company, make sure you pack an emergency or essential bag for your little friend. A pack of their favorite food, their sleeping blankets, and a few of their toys must always be available.
Prepare your New Home Beforehand
For pets, coming to a new home can be extremely stressful. To ease their mind, prepare the space beforehand by unpacking some familiar pieces of furniture and your pet’s belongings before you bring them in for the first time. The familiar smells will help curb your pet’s anxiety and help them adjust to the new space.
Once your furry friend enters the house, make sure you don’t interrupt them as they go around the house, taking in the scent and feel of the space. Let them explore the new home with ease at their own pace. They might hesitate to visit the new rooms later if you disturb them mid-way for a cuddle. Therefore, the first day your pet enters the new home, pretend they don’t exist until they come to you.
Conclusion
As a pet owner, even seemingly simple things, such as a weekend getaway, become considerably complicated. After all, you can’t just get up and make spur-of-the-moment plans like your non-pet owner friends. You must first sort out how your little furry friend at home will be cared for. The same rule applies to long-distance moves; you can be up for a challenge. However, if you play your cards right, your furry friend will slowly adjust to the new home without fighting. Just remember to be patient and take care of your pet.
