Store as much as you like for as long as you like
Store as much as you like for as long as you like
There’s a common saying that no home is complete without a pet – and we have to agree! Whether you keep fish, have your house run by cats, or have an excitable dog by your side, pets really can add a lot of value to your life. They become your family, and so when it’s time to move house, you want to make it as stress-free as possible. Which is no small feat! If moving day is coming up for you, we have a few tips for you.
Pets can get nervous at the sight of the very first packing box, so jumping right into packing up every room can cause a lot of stress and anxiety. You can’t avoid packing, but you can take a more relaxed approach. Try to spread out your packing over several weeks instead. This will minimise the stress and show your companion that their normal routine isn’t being too disturbed.
Depending on how far you’re moving, you may find that your old vet is now too far away for you to access, especially in an emergency. Once you’re past that first day in your new home, it’s important to get your pets registered at a local vet. This step is just as important as you registering for the GP, and will help if your pet does struggle with the stress and change. Don’t forget to have their records moved over too!
If your pets go outside or are capable of breaking out and getting outside, make sure there is some sort of ID attached to them. New surroundings can be intimidating and it’s all too easy for them to get lost. Make sure they have a collar with a name tag that has your name, phone number and address on it so they can be returned to you. If your pets are microchipped. make sure you’re updated your address and the phone number is correct.
If you can, it’s worth requesting a pet-friendly viewing of your new property. Take your furry friend along and let them explore. This is most practical with dogs, but it can be done with cats too. If you have dogs, start by taking them on walks in the new neighbourhood. Let them sniff around and roam the streets, getting them used to what will become a regular route for them. This is also a good way to get to know the neighbourhood and maybe even meet some of your soon-to-be neighbours.
Moving day is going to be stressful for everyone- we can’t sugar-coat that! But you can take some steps to make it less stressful for your pet. Arrange a room or a space in the new house that will be dedicated to your pet. Fill it with all of their favourite items, food and water, and a safe space to go to the bathroom. Try to keep this room calm and quiet, recreating their home environment as much as possible. This will make the transition easier, and it will ensure they are kept safe and calm while you’re moving furniture.
Above all else, pets are creatures of habit. They have a routine of their own, and you will have a routine with them too. Changing that will be difficult – so we recommend you don’t try to. As much as you can, try to maintain their normal daily routine. feed them at the same time as normal, take them on walks at the usual time and so on. This will help your pet feel grounded and protected and communicates that everything is all right.
If you’re moving house with pets, it can be stressful, but Blue Box Storage are here to help! From our packing materials range to help with transport or temporary storage, our secure units provide peace of mind. To find out more, just get in touch with the team today.