Moving With Pets: Tips To Keep Animals Calm During Your Relocation To A Townhouse
Moving into a new townhouse is an exciting experience for pet owners. Many town homes for rent feature fenced or otherwise enclosed backyards where pets may exercise and enjoy fresh air. Another benefit for pet owners is the way multiple levels in a townhouse keep more "fragrant" pets on a separate level from entertaining zones. Your home is always ready for guests without having to tidy up after messier pets in a townhome.
When moving your pets into a new townhome for rent in your area, there are some tips and tricks to make it easier on you and your animal companions. Follow the pet guidelines below to make it a smooth transition:
Universal pet-moving advice
As much as people adore their pets, moving day causes even the most devoted pet-lover to neglect their furry and feathered household members. When moving crews, friends, and family are milling about in your home and frantically packing up the furnishings, pets often become overwhelmed or overlooked.
Consider letting a kennel, vet's office, professional animal caretaker, or friend pet-sit for you on move-out day. Your dog or cat won't accidentally be let outside by strangers, and pets won't be freaking out over the disruption of their environment.
All animals do better with routine. When they are fed, walked, groomed, and handled in the same way and at the same times, they feel more secure. Launch directly into your old routines once your new home is unpacked.
Dogs trust their own scent
Most dogs are very amenable to new surroundings as long as you're there and they have their same treats, toys and food. Keep their walks and other activities on the same schedule to help them adjust quickly. Don't wash all of their bedding and toys before the move, but reserve some stinkier blankets or cushions to help super-nervous dogs feel more at ease. Be sure to update your dog's ID and contact tags, and reach out to dog-owning neighbors to discover the local dog hot spots for walks and play.
Cats appreciate some cheek-to-cheek
One way to encourage your cat to feel comfortable in their crate for the move is to order some synthetic feline facial pheromone spray from your vet. When cats rub their cheeks on stuff, it turns out they're marking familiar territory. Use the spray to mark the crate. You can also use a soft cloth to rub your cat's cheeks, and then rub that cloth on the crate, furnishings, baseboards, and other areas where the cat is allowed to go. Skittish cats appreciate smelling their own scent in the new townhome and may settle more easily.
Parrots need some coaxing for new digs
You may need to change parrot cages when you move into a townhome, since your old cage may be outgrown or not the correct size. Transition your curious parrot a few weeks in advance of moving. Set up the new cage next to the old cage if possible, Have tempting toys, perches, and treats in the new cage. Allow your parrot to explore the new cage on its own. Once in the new place, reduce your bird's anxiety by ensuring he or she can see you while you unpack. As long as you're within view, parrots feel much more secure.
Fish are the most fragile pets to move
Consider hiring a fish store to pack and relocate your fish. Otherwise, begin the relocation 5 days before the move by replacing 20% of the tank's water volume each day. Your goal is to then transport 80% of this refreshed water to your new home. Don't feed the fish for a day to two before packing them for the move; they'll be fine. Place healthy plants in sealed bags to bring beneficial bacteria along. Once the tank is full and set up again, let the fish sit in their transport plastic bags inside the tank to allow them to adjust to the temperature change. Slowly release them into their tank as they become acclimated.
