Moving is stressful—and not just for humans. Not only can animals sense your anxiety, they also dislike unpredictability. Here are suggestions to help your beloved companions have a smoother experience:

Have a Travel Plan

Coordinate how you will transport your pets ahead of time and give them a chance to get acclimated to the travel crate or carrier. Have treats, bathroom supplies, and a leash or harness ready for the trip. Also, reach out to your vet if you think they will need calming medication.

Reduce Food Intake

Prevent car sickness by not feeding your pet right before traveling. Instead, either feed them a few hours before or wait until you have reached your destination.

Separate Your Pets from the Chaos

Board your pets or put them into a closed room while your stuff is being moved out or into the new home. Keeping them confined will also protect them from accidentally getting out of the house.

Reestablish Routine

Ensure there are smells they recognize in the new home, so that your pets don’t feel completely out of place. For example, have their toys, favorite blanket, food, crate, or litter box nearby. Also, take your dog on walks with a leash around the neighborhood, and let your cats slowly explore the house to help them adapt to their new surroundings.

And don’t forget, whether it’s finding a new vet, animal daycare, or different dog parks in the area, your REALTOR® can be an excellent resource.