You finally did it boo! You signed the lease (or deed) and you’re moments away from getting the keys to your new place in La La Land (insert happy dance!). Moving to a new place is such a huge moment for anyone and it’s a moment ya need to celebrate. Pssst…we recommend hitting up these places! But anyone can agree to this – moving can be stressful especially with our furry friends. There’s tons of planning and prep to settle into your new home. But if you take the right amount of steps, moving with pets can be the smoothest transition. So whether its down the block or way across to the westside, here’s everything you need to know about moving with pets in LA.
How To Plan Ahead
The first step in moving with pets in LA is to plan ahead. There are several important things you need to do to make sure your pets are comfortable and safe throughout the process. First step – don’t forget to schedule a visit to the vet. The vet should do a thorough health check-up and be on top of your pet’s vaccinations, medical records and medications. If your pet is prone to anxiety, your vet might suggest ways to help them cope during the move. You also want to check that your pet’s identification is up to date. This means updating their microchip information and making sure they have a collar with an ID tag that includes your new address and phone number (we don’t want your pup to go missing!). Finally, and before you sign anything, make sure your new place is pet-friendly. Check for any breed or size restrictions, and be mindful of any parks or open spaces nearby for your furry friends to play.
How To Prepare for The Move
On the day of the move, having a plan in place will help prevent problems. According to AmeriSafe Moving Services, not preparing in advance for a move can lead to unnecessary stress and complications for your pet. Preparation can make the process much smoother for you – trust us! We suggest renting storage for your belongings to keep the moving process organized and less chaotic. By storing non-essential items temporarily, you can create a more controlled environment for your pet, reducing their exposure to the commotion of moving day. Set up a safe, quiet space for your pet in your current home where they can stay during the hustle and bustle of moving day. This could be a room with their bed, toys, and some of your clothes to keep them calm. Be sure to pack a bag with your pet’s essentials, including food, water, bowls, medications, toys, and anything else they might need during the move. Having these items easily accessible will make the transition smoother for your pet. When it comes time to move your pet, safety is paramount. Use a secure carrier for smaller pets and make sure larger pets are safely harnessed in your vehicle. Never transport your pet in the back of a moving truck or in a way that could put them at risk.
You’ve Arrived!
Once you’ve arrived to your new LA home, here are some steps to take to help your pet adjust to their new environment. First, set up a designated area for your pet with their bed, toys, food, and water bowls. Having a familiar space will help them feel more secure in their new surroundings. Allow your pet to explore their new home gradually. Start with one room and slowly introduce them to other areas of the house. Supervise their exploration to ensure they don’t encounter any hazards. As you already know, pets thrive on routine, so try to keep their schedule as consistent as possible. Feed them at the same times and maintain regular walking and play schedules. Familiar routines can help reduce anxiety and help your pet adjust to the new place more quickly.
How To Lower Your Pet’s Stress
Even with careful planning, your pet might exhibit signs of stress or anxiety during the move. Common signs of stress in pets include excessive barking or meowing, changes in eating habits, and uncharacteristic behavior such as hiding or aggression. If you notice these signs, try to provide extra comfort and reassurance to your pet. Creating a calm environment by playing soft music, using calming sprays or diffusers, and ensuring they have a quiet place to retreat to. If your pet’s anxiety persists, consider seeking help from a pro. Animal behaviorists and trainers can offer strategies and techniques to help your pet adjust to their new home. And not a bad idea to book a session in your new home too!
Explore LA
We love that LA has so many pet-friendly things to do! We suggest exploring LA’s pet-friendly parks. Griffith Park, Runyon Canyon Park, and Silver Lake Dog Park are popular options. Regular visits to these parks can help your pet burn off energy, socialize with other animals, and get used to their new LA home. We also love LA’s wide range of grooming and pet-sitting services. We’re positive you’ll find one that you’ll love. Many restaurants and cafes in LA welcome pets, especially in outdoor seating areas. Places like The Morrison and The Fat Dog are known for being particularly pet-friendly. Exploring these options can make your LA experience more enjoyable for you and your pet.
We hope you these steps will help your move to LA be a smooth transition especially for your furry friends. From visiting the vet and updating identification to setting up a familiar space and maintaining a routine, every step is crucial in helping your pet adjust to their new home. And we can’t say it enough – be sure to take advantage of LA’s pet-friendly amenities to make the most of your new environment. For more tips, check out how we planned our easy move to LA.
