BEFORE MOVING
Update your pet's microchip/tag with your new address
If your companion runs away or gets lost, a tag or microchip can make it much easier to get them back by your side.
Before moving, get your pet's tag with your new address. Put it around your faithful friend's neck as soon as you move. This way, your pet will be well identified from the first day!
If your cat or dog has a microchip instead, be sure to update the contact information associated with it. A veterinary clinic will be able to direct you to the right place to do this.
Get your pet used to its carrier
If you have a cat or small dog, you will probably move them in a carrier. To make things easier for you and to make this move less stressful for your pet, get them used to their carrier in the days leading up to the move:
- Take the carrier out and place it in its environment. Place treats in the carrier and leave the door open to encourage your companion to explore the interior on their own and tame it at their own pace.
- Make sure the carrier is suitable for the size of your pet. The cage should be large enough for your pet to feel comfortable in. If possible, choose a carrier with a removable top.
- For more comfort in the transport carrier, do not hesitate to put a cushion or a blanket inside.
Make sure your pet's vaccinations are up to date
It is important to keep your pet's vaccinations up to date at all times. That said, this is essential if you have an outdoor cat and you are moving. The arrival of a feline in a new territory can unfortunately increase the risk of fights and thus promote the transmission of certain diseases.
DURING THE MOVE
Maintain some semblance of routine
Moving is a big upheaval in an animal's life. This is not the time to change his food or remove all his toys before the big day.
Pack your pet's belongings on moving day only. Gather his food and medicine for easy access to your new home. Upon arrival, make sure that your pet's food, water, bed, and litter box (in the case of a cat) are easily accessible.
Even if moving day is far from normal, try to respect your dog or cat's schedule (feeding, walks, etc.) and give him or her as much attention as usual. This will help create a sense of security in your pet.
Stay away from your pet
To minimize stress in your dog or cat, the ideal is to isolate them from the noise and comings and goings caused by the move.
Once in your new home, place your companion in a quiet room while you move. Make sure to leave him his litter box, his water, his food and his favorite toys. Mark the room where your pet is located with a sign to prevent the door from being opened unnecessarily. Wait until the move is complete to let your companion explore the area.
Better yet, if you can, have your pet looked after by someone and in a place that he knows well during the move.
AFTER THE MOVE
Help your pet settle into their new home
Encourage your pet to explore his new home by scattering treats or a little of his favorite food around. This will help make the experience a positive one.
Don't forget to show your companion the new location of things that are important to him: his food, his water, his litter box, the door to go outside to do his business, his toys, his bed, etc.
Inspect the yard
Does your pet have access to a yard? Awesome! Before letting your dog explore it, check that there are no exits through which he could escape!
Monitor your companion's health
In some cases, the stress of moving can trigger unusual behaviors or health problems. Be attentive to your companion. If in doubt, do not hesitate to contact a veterinarian.
A WORD ON ABANDONMENTS
Unfortunately, it is difficult to talk about moving without talking about abandonment. Every year in Quebec, too many animals are left behind during the moving season.
It is important to remember that adopting an animal is a long-term commitment. However, it happens that owners find themselves unable to keep their companion. Here is what the Order of Veterinarians of Quebec recommends in such cases:
- Do not abandon the animal anywhere (e.g. in the house you are leaving, in the street, in nature, etc.)
- If possible, try to find him a new family suited to his needs through your network of contacts.
- Take him to a shelter or other suitable facility.
Worried about moving with your pet? Don’t hesitate to discuss this with your veterinary team!