Moving with pets in South Florida can feel overwhelming. But with the right preparation, it doesn’t have to be stressful. Whether you have a dog, cat, or something a bit more exotic, moving with furry (or scaly!) family members is all about planning ahead. From packing their favorite toys to finding the perfect pet-friendly neighborhood, there’s a lot to consider. When moving with animals in South Florida, it is important that you take your time to make the transition easier for them. Don’t worry, though.
You’ve found your trusted and reliable local movers, Miami. We’ll share some simple, practical tips to help you and your pets make a smooth transition.
Ready to get started? Let’s dive in!
Find Out About Laws and Regulations
If you are coming from another state or a foreign country to South Florida, you need to know more about the state laws and regulations. Get familiar with license issues and what the leash laws are. Also, find out about breed bans and other such issues in your neighborhood. Some insurance companies may also have reservations about some pet breeds. Ensure that your pet will be accepted in the area you are moving to.
Visit the Vet and Discuss the Move
Before moving with pets, it’s important to schedule a vet visit. This gives you a chance to check your pet’s health and discuss the upcoming move. Ask your vet for advice on how to reduce stress during the move. They may recommend calming products or medication, especially if your pet gets anxious. It’s also a good idea to make sure your pet is up-to-date on vaccinations and has a health certificate if needed. This visit is a great opportunity to ask about finding a new vet in South Florida as well. Staying proactive will help make the transition smoother for your pet.
Update Identification Information
When moving with pets, it’s essential to update their identification information. Make sure your pet’s tags and microchip have your current contact details. This is especially important if you’re moving to a new address. A collar with an updated ID tag can help others return your pet quickly if they get lost. If your pet is microchipped, contact the microchip company to update your information. Some places in South Florida may also require specific licenses, so check local regulations. Taking these steps ensures your pet stays safe and easily identifiable during the move.
Help them Weather the Elements
One of the most important things to focus on when moving with pets is the weather. South Florida can be downright brutal when it comes to high temperatures and humidity. You might think it is a good idea to let your dog outside in your yard during the move, but there are a few things to consider. For one, as the homeowner, you will be juggling many tasks on moving day, and the reality of time can get away from you. Before you realize it, your dog has been outside in the heat for triple of the amount of time you intended. While it is a good idea to keep your animals clear of the high-traffic moving areas, leaving them outside could compromise their safety.
Instead, you can just corner them off with a pet gate or lock them in a room where they have some familiar items like their bed, toys, and bones to keep them happy. Keep moving them from room to room as necessary. Whether your animals are inside or outside during moving day, it’s important to ensure they have fresh drinking water nearby at all times.
Crate Train the Pet Ahead Of Moving Day
If you plan on using a crate while moving with pets, it’s a good idea to start crate training early. Introduce your pet to the crate weeks before moving day. Place their favorite toys or blankets inside to make it a comfortable space. Gradually increase the amount of time your pet spends in the crate, so they get used to it. This helps reduce anxiety and makes the move easier. On moving day, your pet will already see the crate as a safe and familiar place. With practice, the crate can make the entire moving process less stressful for both of you.
Protect the Pet from the Hassles on Moving Day
On the moving day, it can be very tough for your pet to watch the entire house being packed up. Since you can’t easily explain the activities to the animal, it is important that you keep it away from the action and save it the stress. You can leave it with a trusted friend while you pack. Do not make the pet feel they are being left behind or that something is wrong. The feeling can lead to serious anxiety and hyperactivity.
Take the Pet in Your Vehicle If That Is Possible
When moving with pets, it’s best to transport them in your own vehicle if possible. This helps your pet stay calm, as they’ll feel more comfortable being with you. Make sure your pet is safely secured, either in a crate or with a seatbelt harness. Take breaks during long drives to give your pet time to stretch, drink water, and relax. If your pet is prone to car sickness, talk to your vet about how to handle it. Keeping your pet close during the move can reduce their stress and help them feel more at ease.
Don’t Let the Pet Out Off-Leash En Route
During the move, it’s important to never let your pet off-leash while traveling. Even the most well-trained pets can get spooked by new surroundings. Always keep them on a leash or harness when taking them out for breaks. This helps avoid any chance of them running off in unfamiliar areas. Be especially careful at rest stops or busy locations. Keeping your pet secure ensures their safety and gives you peace of mind as you make your way to your new home.
Pro-Tip: If your dog gets off-leash while moving with pets, avoid chasing them. Running after your dog might make them think it’s a game, and they’ll likely run faster.
Instead, lie down as if you’re injured. This triggers your dog’s instinct to check on you. They’ll come over to investigate, giving you a chance to grab their collar and safely reconnect the leash. This method keeps your dog calm and prevents them from running further away in an unfamiliar area.
Create a Familiar Space in the New Home
When you finally get to your new environment, it is important that you set up the pet’s home in a familiar manner. This will help the animal to adjust to the new environment easily. It is also important that you stick to the pets previous feeding and walking schedules.
Explore the New Environment Safely
After moving with pets, it’s important to let them explore their new environment safely. Start by walking them around the house or yard while keeping them on leashes. This allows them to get familiar with the new smells and surroundings without feeling overwhelmed. Gradually introduce them to different rooms or outdoor spaces. Make sure to block off any areas that could be dangerous, like pools or busy streets. With time, your pet will start feeling more comfortable in their new home, and exploring slowly will help them adjust with less stress.
There you have it! Above are some tips for moving with pets in South Florida. Moving with a pet can present some unique challenges, especially if you are doing it for the first time. It is your duty to help your pet go through the process without serious stress. By adopting the tips discussed above, you and your pet will do just fine.
Are you considering relocating to South Florida? Contact us today at Moving Squad of South Florida LLC. to handle all the processes involved in your moving and packing. We offer affordable, well-detailed services that can be personalized to your moving needs. We guarantee you excellent services that will surpass your expectations.
