9 Tips for Moving with Pets

Moving can be a stressful experience, especially when pets are involved. Preparing your furry family members for the journey is essential to keeping them calm and helping them adjust to a new environment. With a few strategic steps, you can make the transition easier and ensure your pets stay safe, comfortable, and ready to settle into your new home.

Moving with pets requires advanced planning to make the process as smooth as possible. To start, establish a clear timeline for the move and build a checklist of pet-specific tasks, from updating tags to gathering supplies for the journey. Whether moving across town or to a new city like Bend, establishing a plan will help ease your pets’ transition and ensure you have everything needed to care for them en route.

One of the first things to address when moving is updating your pet’s identification tags and microchip information. Pets may feel anxious in a new environment, increasing the risk of them wandering off. Having updated contact information on both their tags and microchips ensures you’ll have a higher chance of quickly reuniting with them if they get lost.

If your pet isn’t microchipped, consider doing so before moving. It’s a reliable way to help locate them if they ever become lost in an unfamiliar area. Bend has several reputable veterinarians and animal shelters that can help update your pet’s information on their system, providing extra security and peace of mind.

Creating a travel kit specifically for your pet is essential, especially when moving long distances. Your pet’s travel kit should include food, water, dishes, a leash, waste bags, and any medications or health documents. Comfort items, such as a favorite toy or blanket, can also help reduce stress and give them a sense of familiarity during the transition.

If traveling by car, bring along some treats and a portable water bowl to keep your pet hydrated and comfortable. For moves involving flights, check with the airline for pet travel guidelines, as they may require health certificates or specific carriers.

On moving day, it’s easy for pets to become anxious with the commotion of movers, packing, and noise. To keep pets calm and safe, consider placing them in a quiet room or crate with familiar items, like their bed or toys, to reduce exposure to stress. If possible, arranging for a friend or family member to watch them during the move can minimize stress and potential escape risks.

Once moving day arrives, keep your pet’s routine as consistent as possible. Regular feeding and walking times help reinforce a sense of normalcy amid the chaos. Pack a small bag with their essentials for the day, including food, water, and favorite items, to keep them comfortable throughout the journey.

Setting up a pet-friendly space in your new home before your pet arrives can make the transition smoother. Start by designating a quiet area with their bed, toys, and food dishes to help them feel secure. This setup provides a go-to space where they can retreat and feel comfortable as they adjust to the new surroundings.

Familiarize yourself with the home’s layout and any pet-specific features, such as fenced yards or nearby parks, so you know what to expect. Bend’s pet-friendly culture offers plenty of outdoor spaces for walking and exploring, which can be a wonderful asset for helping pets adapt to the new location.

When you first arrive at your new home, allow your pet to explore one room at a time. Gradually increasing their exposure to different areas of the house prevents overwhelming them with too much change at once. Keeping them on a leash during this initial exploration can help keep them calm and prevent accidents.

For pets that may be especially nervous, keeping familiar items like their bedding, toys, or even an unwashed blanket from the previous home can provide reassurance.

After the move, establishing a routine is key to helping your pet adjust to the new home. Consistent feeding, walking, and playtimes create a structure they can rely on, reducing anxiety and helping them feel more secure. Regular routines are especially helpful for dogs, who thrive on predictable schedules and may find moving particularly disruptive. Be sure to take daily walks in familiar areas near your new home to help them establish a sense of territory and comfort.

Once you’ve settled in, finding a local veterinarian is important for keeping your pet’s health in check. Research local veterinarians before moving to ensure that you have a reliable clinic nearby for emergencies or routine visits. A pre-move call to veterinary offices can help you establish care quickly and provide peace of mind in your new location.

Bend is home to several highly-rated animal clinics and veterinary hospitals that offer services ranging from routine check-ups to emergency care. If your pet has special needs or health conditions, having a go-to veterinarian nearby is essential, especially during the initial transition period.

Bend is known for its pet-friendly community and outdoor activities, making it an ideal location for pet owners. Once you’re settled, take some time to explore local dog parks, trails, and pet-friendly cafes to make the most of its amenities. Locations like Pine Nursery Park and the Deschutes River Trail are perfect for daily walks and outdoor bonding time.

Exploring Bend with your pet not only helps them acclimate to the new environment but also provides you both with a chance to enjoy the region’s natural beauty. From the scenic mountain views to community events that welcome pets, Bend’s offerings can enhance your experience as a pet owner.

Moving with pets can be a challenge, but with the right preparation, it can be a smooth experience for everyone. If you’re considering moving to Bend with your furry friends and need guidance finding a pet-friendly home, reach out to Christensen Collective. Their team can help you find the perfect property for you and your pets.

Explore your real estate options with Christensen Collective and discover pet-friendly properties to call home in Bend.