6 Tips for Moving with Pets

Welcome to Rochester, MN. It is a vibrant city known for its pet-friendly parks, cozy cafes, and outdoor spaces for you and your pets. Whether you're strolling through Silver Lake Park, grabbing a bite at one of the many dog-friendly restaurants, or discovering hidden gems like the local pet boutiques, Rochester has plenty to offer for animal lovers.

Many services, like grooming, boarding, and pet health care, are widely available, helping your pets feel just as at home as you do. The community here embraces a pet-friendly lifestyle, making it easier to find the right amenities no matter where you live.

Before you bring your pets into your new Rochester home, ensure the space is safe and comfortable. Dog owners should start by securing loose wires or small objects that could become chew toys. Make sure to store household cleaners, medications, and food in cabinets that are out of reach. If your new home has a backyard, inspect the fencing to ensure no gaps or loose boards where an adventurous dog might sneak through.

Cat owners should focus on high places where your feline might leap or climb. Secure shelving, remove fragile items and ensure that any plants you bring into the home are non-toxic. Cats love to explore, so be mindful of any small spaces they could get stuck in, and check for any cords from blinds or curtains that might become tempting playthings. If you're moving with fish, you'll want to ensure their tank is stable, away from direct sunlight and drafts. Ensure the water conditions are perfect before moving them in.

Moving can be stressful for pets, so giving them a quiet, familiar place to retreat is key to helping them feel secure. When you first arrive at your new home, designate a secluded spot where your pet can unwind away from the hustle of unpacking. Set up a cozy corner with the dog or cat's bed, favorite toys, and maybe even a piece of clothing that smells like you for extra comfort. This space should be away from the main traffic areas of the house, giving them a quiet retreat if the excitement becomes overwhelming.

Give cats a room to be alone in and explore at their own pace. Set up their litter box, food, and water in this area, along with any comforting items like their scratching post or favorite blanket. Cats are often more anxious during moves, so a calm, familiar space will help ease their transition.

Smaller pets, like fish or hamsters, benefit from a quiet introduction to their new home. Before moving fish in, ensure their tank is fully set up and stable, and for hamsters, place their cage in a quiet, low-traffic room initially.

Moving can be as disorienting for pets as it is for humans, especially when their familiar surroundings start disappearing into boxes. To help your pet adjust, introduce packing supplies like boxes and suitcases well before your move. Allow your pets to sniff around the boxes, and consider giving them treats or attention near the packing supplies to build positive associations. It will reduce anxiety as they see more boxes piling up. For cats, in particular, turning a few empty boxes into play spaces can keep them entertained and less stressed by the changes around them.

In addition to easing them into the moving process, pack a separate emergency moving bag for your pet. It should include essentials like food, water, a favorite toy or blanket, necessary medications, and waste bags or a litter box. For dogs and cats, you may also want to include a leash or harness, so don't forget important paperwork like vaccination records and identification tags. Having everything packed and easily accessible will ensure that your pet stays comfortable during the move and has everything they need for the first few days in your new home.

Schedule a pre-move check-up to confirm that your pet is up to date on vaccinations and any necessary medications. It is also a great time to discuss any specific travel tips or anxiety-relieving options for pets who may be nervous during the move. Ask your vet to provide you with a copy of your pet's medical records, or better yet, have them send it directly to your new vet in Rochester.

Securing a new veterinarian before you arrive is equally important. Research local vets, check reviews, and even call ahead to ask about their services to make sure it's a good fit. Some vets specialize in certain types of care, so finding one that aligns with your pet's needs is key. Having your pet's medical records transferred ahead of time means that, if an emergency arises, your new vet will be ready to help.

Every pet is different, so the time it takes to adjust to a new home will vary. On average, dogs may take a few days to a couple of weeks to get used to their new surroundings, while cats may need a bit longer—sometimes up to a month or more. The key is to give your pet time and patience as they settle into their new environment.

Daily routines can help dogs feel more secure. To establish a sense of normalcy, keep their feeding, walking, and play schedules as consistent as possible. Gradually introduce them to new areas of the house and let them explore at their own pace. Conversely, cats are creatures of habit and may be more anxious about the move. Keep them in a single room at first, allowing them to slowly acclimate to their new home before opening more space for them to explore.

Small pets, like fish or hamsters, usually adjust quickly as long as their habitats remain consistent. Ensure they're in a quiet, stable location, allowing them time to relax without too many distractions. With love, attention, and patience, your pets will soon feel right at home.

Jake Huglen is the real estate agent you can count on when finding the perfect pet-friendly home for sale in Rochester, MN. As a third-generation real estate agent and passionate dog lover, Jake understands the importance of finding a home that suits you and your pets. His deep knowledge of Rochester's pet-friendly neighborhoods and his dedication to serving his clients ensure that your home search will be seamless and enjoyable.