Moving to a new apartment means thinking about a lot of things — packing, loading the truck, working with movers and unpacking. The last thing you want to add to the list is worrying about your pet. Think ahead and create a plan that will keep your pet safe during the hustle and bustle of your move, so you can concentrate on boxes instead of your pet Boxer.
Watch out
A lot goes on during moving day and you don’t want your pet to get lost in the shuffle. Keep these potential problems in mind as you think about ways to keep your pets safe during your move.
•It’s easy for pets to slip out of an open door and disappear into an unfamiliar neighborhood. Know where your pet is at all times.
•Moving boxes can hold unforeseen dangers. Unattended pets run the risk of digging into a box containing toxins or harmful objects.
•Unfamiliar people like professional movers may frighten pets.
•Chaos and activity can cause stress in many animals. Be on the lookout for symptoms like diarrhea and nausea.
Safety strategy
A little pre-move planning goes a long way and will make your move easier for both you and your pets. Take these precautions and Fido will feel right at home in your new apartment.
•Keep your pet in a carrier or on a leash when you transport them to your new apartment, so they don’t escape from your car when you open the door.
•If your pet will be at your new apartment during your move, keep them separated from moving activity by confining them to crate or in a room with the door closed.
•Remind your movers that you will have pets in the apartment during your move, so they can watch for unexpected escapes.
•Larger animals may frighten your movers, so it’s good to warn them about possible pet encounters.
•Update pet ID tags with your cell phone number.
•If you can’t keep your pet tucked safely away in your new apartment during the move, leave them with a friend or book a stay at a kennel.
•Consult with your veterinarian if you suspect your pet might become stressed by the move. They may prescribe a mild sedative to keep your pet calm.
Check out and check in
Even after you’ve secured your pet in a safe spot, be sure to take breaks to visit with him, walk him and freshen his food or water. It’s a great excuse for you to take a break from moving and it will help your pet make the transition to your new apartment. Lastly, when it’s time to let your pet explore his new home, stay nearby during his first look around, so you can spot any hazards you may have not noticed.
