When you take on a big move, it’s easy to get wrapped up in all the chaos of packing, finishing the deal on a house, working out your job situation, etc. Unfortunately, people with pets tend to get a little preoccupied, and that makes it a very difficult process for the pet to deal with.
Today, we’re going to give you 8 tips for moving with a pet to Los Angeles that will make your life, and your pet’s life, a lot easier.
Let’s get started.
1. Make Plenty of Time to Give Them Attention
First, we just mentioned this, but you’re very likely to end up preoccupied. Whether it’s a big cross-country move, or you’re just moving to a new Los Angeles apartment, there are a lot of things you have to do, and it gets overwhelming very quickly.
While you have a good reason for that, your pet doesn’t understand all the work that’s on your plate. It just wants the attention it’s used to getting, and when it doesn’t get that, it can end up getting stressed out a lot more than is necessary.
Don’t forget to stop periodically and give your pet plenty of attention throughout the moving phase. This can seem a bit difficult, but it will help keep your pet calm, and they’ll transition throughout the move much more easily. In the end, it takes a lot of extra stress off your shoulders.
2. Set Aside a “Normalcy” Zone
Your pets are used to your home being a certain way. Almost every pet likes a routine, and when things get out of whack, they get stressed out.
You might not think about it, but when you’re moving, your entire home is in chaos. Everything is being moved, packed up, and left all over the place. That’s hard for a pet to deal with.
Instead, block off one part of your house where your pet really likes to relax. Take all your pet’s favorite things, and turn that area into a little normalcy zone.
For example, if you have a dog, put its bed, favorite toys, feeding bowls, and comfort items in the area.
This gives the pet an area that feels familiar, and they won’t be as bothered by all the changes. It also keeps them from tripping you up and getting in the way.
3. Talk to Your Vet
One thing a lot of pet owners don’t think about before moving is simply talking to their vet.
Your pet’s vet knows them just as well as you do, and they’re more aware of different behavioral things and how to deal with them from a professional standpoint than you are. So, when you know you’re going to move soon, take the time to call the vet.
Ask the vet what some things are that you can do to keep your pet in good spirits throughout the move. They’re sure to have loads of tips just like we do, but they might even be able to prescribe a medication for the duration of the move depending on your pet’s health and history of dealing with stress.
4. Pack the Pet’s Stuff Last
When you’re packing for the move, don’t take anything that is your pet’s until you have all your stuff packed up and ready to move.
Remember how we said your pet needs to have a familiar place? Well, you have to maintain that all the way up until you get in the car and start heading to your new home for good. To do that, you’re going to want to leave all your pet’s stuff alone until the very end of the process. Professional packing involves careful planning, and by packing your pet’s belongings last, you can prevent a lot of stress for your furry friend.
5. Unpack Your Pet First
Your pet shouldn’t just be the last one out. They should be the first one unpacked in the new home, too.
They’re going to suddenly be in a completely new home, and the easiest way to keep them calm is to quickly set up a familiar place with all their favorite items the same way you did in your last home during the packing phase.
6. Make the Ride Comfortable
Car rides can be difficult for pets. Unless you frequently take your pet for rides, they probably aren’t in the car much, and even if they are, they’ve spent weeks being stressed over the move.
Try to set up your pet’s travel crate with their favorite comfort items. It won’t be perfect, but at least they’ll have something familiar around them.
7. Take the Pet Ahead of Time for New-Home Visits
If possible, try to take the pet with you to the new home a couple of times before the move even takes place.
This isn’t often possible with apartments or when you’re moving cross-country, but if you close on a house, and travel distance permits it, get your pet in the car, drive them to the new house once it’s officially yours, and let them see their new home ahead of the move.
8. Consider CBD Pet Products
If you’re up to trying something new, you might want to consider CBD pet products. These are edible pet snacks that are infused with low amounts of CBD. These treats are made for most common pets such as dogs, cats, and even rodents.
While it might sound odd if you haven’t been paying attention to the hemp world in recent years, it is now legal in Los Angeles. In fact, there are several shops dedicated to producing and selling them.
You probably don’t want to start doing this as an everyday thing, but on moving day when things are the most stressful, using one of these goodies could make it a lot less stressful.
Need Help Moving? Call Man with a Truck!
Finding a dependable moving company is crucial for a smooth and stress-free relocation, especially when you have pets. Here’s a pro tip: Whether you’re moving within Los Angeles or to cities like Bellevue or San Diego, Man with a Truck is here to help. We ensure that your belongings, including your pet’s essentials, are transported safely and efficiently.
As the leading moving company in Los Angeles and beyond, we take pride in delivering top-notch customer service. Our team consists of highly qualified professionals who maintain a customer-first attitude. We understand the unique challenges of moving with pets and strive to make your move as seamless and hassle-free as possible, providing peace of mind from start to finish.
Before we call it a day, let’s give a shoutout to the premier moving service ready to manage your move with utmost care and professionalism. If you’re looking for a company to reliably transport your cherished belongings and ensure your pets are comfortable, look no further than Man with a Truck. Contact us today for a free quote, and let our expert team alleviate the stress of your move with pets!
