Introducing your pet to a new home takes patience and understanding - whether you're welcoming a newly adopted dog or cat or relocating with your family four-legged companion. Just like moving can be overwhelming for us, it can be equally disorienting for pets as their familiar environment and routines are suddenly disrupted. Here are some essential tips to help your pet acclimate to their new surroundings and feel right at home.
Maintain Familiar Routines
Helping your pet adjust to a new home takes patience and consistency. Stick to their familiar routines as much as possible; keeping their feeding schedule, the location of food and water dishes, litter boxes, walks, and playtime unchanged. Familiar scents, bedding, and toys can provide extra comfort during this time. A few extra cuddle sessions can also help ease any anxiety and reassure them that they're safe and loved.
Keep Your Pet's Old Belongings
Moving is already stressful enough, so it might be tempting to ditch your pet's old belongings and start fresh with new beds and toys. However, with so much change happening around them, your pet is likely to find comfort in the familiar - especially the scent and feel of their old things. Introducing too much change at once can be overwhelming and stressful. Keeping some of their favourite items nearby can help them feel secure and settled into their new home.
Create Comfort for Your Pet
Every pet has their own personality and will respond to moving in their own way. Some may embrace the change and enjoy exploring their new surroundings, while others may feel unsettled and anxious. They will be around you more for reassurance or seek out the comfort of a familiar space like their crate or even a leftover moving box. Ensure they have a quiet, safe spot away from stacked boxes and suitcases. For particularly sensitive pets, it might be best to have them stay with a trusted friend until things have settled and you've had a chance to unpack.
Give Your Pet Time to Settle In
If your pet is struggling to adjust it, it doesn't mean they're misbehaving or that the situation won't work out. They may simply need more time to explore and settle into their new surroundings before feeling comfortable. If unwanted behaviours continue, shower them with extra love and consider seeking guidance from a professional trainer or veterinarian. Spending time on their level and playing with them can help spread your familiar scent around the house and ease their anxiety.
Moving is challenging for everyone, but with a bit of patience, planning, and plenty of love, you can help make your pet's transition to a new home as smooth as possible.
Where Pets are Family at Augustana
At Augustana, we know that pets are family, which is why our apartment is pet-friendly. While you enjoy the comfort of your home with stunning views from our floor-to-ceiling windows and explore the vibrant downtown Edmonton area, your pet can experience the same comfort too. Plus, as a Resident in our community, you'll gain access to exclusive discounts to 100+ retail offers - not only for yourself, but for your pets too! Enjoy savings on pet supplies and toys from brands like Woof, Barkbox, and Chewy Canada. Contact our Leasing Team for more details on our pet policy and to schedule a tour.