Start with Early Preparation

We all know that pets are creatures of habit. They thrive on routines, which can be disrupted by the chaos of moving. To help minimize the impact on your pets, start your preparations early.

Acclimate Your Pet to Moving Supplies

One thing that can make your pet uneasy is all the moving supplies that start piling up. Boxes, tape, and unfamiliar objects can make pets anxious. To reduce their anxiety, bring these items into your home gradually. Let your pet sniff around and get used to the sight of boxes without associating them with sudden change.

Mac’s Moving & Storage offers all the moving supplies you need, including pet-friendly packing materials that can help make the process easier for your pets. We recommend that you leave a few boxes out for a few days before you start packing to help your pet get used to the idea.

Vet Check-Up and Travel Documents

Before your move, make sure your pet is up-to-date on all vaccinations and health check-ups. If you’re moving across state lines or internationally, you’ll need to research the required travel documents for your pet in advance. Some states require vaccination certificates, health records, or even quarantine, depending on the type of pet you have.

Additionally, talk to your vet about how to handle your pet’s anxiety during travel. For particularly nervous pets, they may recommend sedatives or calming supplements. Be sure to pack any necessary medications for the trip.

Making Moving Day Easier for Your Pet

When the big day arrives, it’s important to have a game plan for your pet. Pets can get confused or anxious during the hustle and bustle of moving, so having a clear strategy is key.

Safe Transport: Car Travel with Pets

Most people moving long distances choose to drive, which can be a good option for pets, as it keeps them close to you. However, driving for long periods with pets can pose its own set of challenges. Safety should be your top priority when traveling with your pets.

• For dogs, consider using a harness that can be attached to a seatbelt, or opt for a travel crate.
• For cats or smaller pets, make sure they are in a secure carrier.

Stopping frequently for bathroom breaks, water, and stretching is essential to keep pets comfortable. Always keep dogs on a leash, and never leave your pets in the car unattended, especially during hot summer months.

Flying with Pets: 2024 Updates

If you’re flying to your new location, there are some important considerations. In 2024, airlines continue to have updated restrictions and policies for pet travel, especially due to health and safety concerns. Some airlines have reduced the number of pets allowed in the cabin, and others have made significant changes to how pets are transported in cargo.

Make sure to check with your airline about specific pet requirements and book your flights well in advance. Airlines like Southwest and Delta still allow pets to travel in the cabin, but size and weight restrictions apply. Larger pets may need to travel in the cargo hold. If this is the case, be sure to label your pet’s crate clearly and pack a blanket or toy that smells like home to comfort them during the flight.

Keeping Pets Comfortable on the Road

If you’re moving to Lake Geneva, WI or beyond, chances are your journey might be long. Keeping your pets comfortable is crucial for a stress-free trip. Here are some travel tips to make things easier for your furry friends:

• Stick to Their Routine: Feed them at the same times you normally would and take breaks for exercise and bathroom trips.
• Pack Familiar Items: Bring along your pet’s favorite blanket, toys, or bedding to keep them relaxed.
• Stay Calm: Pets can sense your stress. Try to remain as calm and upbeat as possible to prevent your anxiety from transferring to them.

If you’re moving with more than one pet, consider separating them into different carriers. This can prevent fights or anxiety between pets that may already be on edge from the move.

Unpacking and Settling Into Your New Home

Finally, after a long journey, you’ve arrived at your new home. But the process isn’t over yet! Now you need to help your pets adjust to their new environment.

Create a Safe Space for Your Pet

When you first arrive, keep your pet in a designated “safe zone” while you begin unpacking. Choose a quiet room and set up their food, water, bed, and toys. This will help your pet feel more secure in an unfamiliar space. Cats, especially, may hide for the first few days, so having a safe space will allow them to adjust at their own pace.

At Mac’s Moving & Storage, we offer climate-controlled storage options that can give you extra time to settle in without overwhelming your pets with unpacking all at once. Use our storage services to store items that don’t need to be unpacked right away, helping you create a calm, organized environment for your pets.

Maintain Their Routine

Even though you’re in a new home, try to keep your pet’s routine as consistent as possible. Continue feeding them at their usual times, and if you have a dog, take them for walks around the same time every day. The more predictable their schedule, the easier the transition will be.

Explore Lake Geneva with Your Dog

If you’ve moved to Lake Geneva, WI, take advantage of the beautiful parks and walking trails that are perfect for dogs. Places like Big Foot Beach State Park and the Lake Geneva Shore Path offer great outdoor activities for you and your furry companion. Getting out into nature can help your dog burn off any extra energy and adjust more quickly to their new home.

Why Choose Mac’s Moving & Storage for Your Pet-Friendly Long-Distance Move?

At Mac’s Moving & Storage, we understand that your pets are part of the family. Our long-distance mover services in Lake Geneva, WI, are designed to provide peace of mind not just for you, but for your furry friends too. We offer:

• Safe and secure packing solutions that ensure all your belongings, including pet supplies, arrive safely.
• Flexible moving schedules so you can plan your move around your pet’s needs.
• Portable storage containers, climate-controlled storage, and on-site management with 24-hour surveillance to keep your items safe while you settle into your new home.

Moving doesn’t have to be stressful for you or your pets. Let Mac’s Moving & Storage handle the logistics while you focus on helping your pets adjust to their new surroundings.

Ready to move with your pet? Contact Mac’s Moving & Storage today to get a free quote and find out how our long-distance mover services in Lake Geneva, WI, can help make your move a breeze for you and your furry friends. We’re here to help you every step of the way!