Moving can be an exciting yet stressful experience for humans, but have you ever wondered how it affects our furry family members?
If you're a pet owner facing the prospect of a move, you know that your pets can experience anxiety, confusion, and fear during the process. Fortunately, there are several strategies you can employ to ensure a smooth transition for your beloved animals.
One reliable tool in this endeavour is the use of removal crates.
Let us break down how:
Understanding the Challenges of Moving with Pets
While each pet is unique, the stresses they face while moving are often similar.
The main ones to look out for are:
- Anxiety and Stress: Moving disrupts your pet's routine, and they may become anxious or stressed due to unfamiliar surroundings, changes in routine, and the presence of strangers (movers or new neighbours).
- Safety Concerns: When you're in the midst of packing and moving, there's a higher risk of your pet escaping or getting injured. Removal crates offer a secure space for your pet during the chaos.
- Transportation: Travelling to your new home can be challenging, especially for pets who aren't accustomed to car rides. Removal crates provide a familiar and secure environment during transit, and can be secured more easily with seat belts etc.
The Benefits of Using Removal Crates
- Comfort and Familiarity: Pets often find comfort in familiar environments. If you own a removal crate, one they've used in your previous home, this will immediately provide a sense of security. You can even place their favourite toys or bedding inside the crate to create a homely atmosphere.
- Safety and Security: Removal crates are designed to be secure and durable, ensuring your pet's safety during the moving process. They can't escape or get underfoot during a hectic move, reducing the risk of accidents.
- Training and Preparation: If your pet isn't used to a removal crate, it's a good idea to introduce them to it well in advance of the move. This allows them to acclimate to the space and feel comfortable inside. Gradual crate training can make the actual move less stressful. A pet that was crate trained from young may have no issues at all.
- Reducing Anxiety: A removal crate can serve as a safe haven for your pet during the move. They can retreat to it when they need a break from the commotion, reducing their overall anxiety.
- Easier Transportation: Whether you're travelling a short distance or embarking on a long journey, removal crates are ideal for safely transporting your pet. They keep your pet contained and secure in the car, preventing any distractions to the driver and ensuring their safety.
Tips for Moving with Pets Using Removal Crates
- Introduce the Crate Early: Begin crate training well in advance of your move. Gradually increase the time your pet spends in the crate so that they become comfortable with it.
- Pack Gradually: As you pack up your home, try to keep your pet's environment as stable as possible. Pack their belongings and essentials at the last moment to reduce disruption.
- Create a Familiar Space: Place your pet's favourite toys, blankets, and treats in the crate to make it a welcoming space.
- Monitor Stress Levels: Pay attention to your pet's behaviour and signs of stress. If they seem anxious, ensure they have access to their crate as a safe retreat.
- Respect Their Routine: Keep feeding and walking schedules as consistent as possible during the move. This can provide a sense of normalcy for your pet.
- Secure the Crate: Ensure the crate is securely fastened during transportation to prevent any accidents or injuries.
- Update Identification: Make sure your pet's collar and identification tags are up to date with your new contact information in case of separation.
- Consult a Vet: If your pet is particularly anxious or has specific health concerns, consult with your veterinarian. They can provide advice or prescribe calming medications if necessary.
- Stay Calm and Reassuring: Your pet can pick up on your stress, so it's essential to remain calm and reassuring throughout the move.
- Unpack Their Belongings First: When you arrive at your new home, set up your pet's space with their belongings before tackling the rest of the unpacking. This will help them adjust more quickly.
Moving with pets can be challenging, but with careful planning and the use of removal crates, you can significantly reduce their stress and ensure a smoother transition to your new home. By creating a safe and familiar space for your furry friends, you can help them adapt more easily to the changes in their environment.
Remember that each pet is unique, and it may take time for them to acclimate to the new surroundings. Patience, love, and the use of removal crates will go a long way in making your pet's move a positive experience.
Looking for Removal Crates?
phs Teacrate is the UK’s leading provider of removal crates to rent or buy.
Moving over 9 million crates every year and supporting industries such as removals and storage, food processing and distribution, retail and fit out companies, which makes us the market leading crate rental service provider across the UK.
To learn more about how we can make your move go more smoothly, contact us now!