Adapting your pet to its new home, it takes time. There is a transition period during which it will explore and sniff around to make its own, as it needs to recognize the surroundings. Below, we explain several tricks to help them adapt easily.
Adapting Your Pet to Its New Home
As we discussed in the previous tips for transporting pets, many factors affect a pet when travelling and adjusting to a new home. Each animal is unique, and different breeds have varying levels of ease in adapting to new environments.
1.- It’s not the same for a cat, a dog, or a lizard
We are talking about animals that roam freely around the house, like dogs, cats, or rabbits. Animals living in terrariums or fixed cages can be affected if the change impacts temperature or the environment is highly variable. We must ensure that the new environment is as similar as possible, in terms of light, temperature, or sounds. For example, with dogs, you need to be more attentive to them, while cats or rabbits tend to be more independent and better explorers. It all depends on each pet’s uniqueness.
2.- The younger, the easier
Young pets tend to take less time to get used to a new space. They are more adaptable, and their energy allows for quicker adjustment. Older adults, on the other hand, are not accustomed to change and may be more reluctant, and they might even feel a bit discouraged. So, you’ll need to put more effort into helping them adapt to their new home.
3.- Give them time, don’t force it
Your pet will naturally explore every corner of the house. Let them take their time, and don’t force them into rooms they are not yet comfortable entering. They will communicate with you and let you know which areas they prefer to avoid. Avoid going out frequently during the first few days to maximize the adaptation time with your pet. It’s likely that they may cry or whine when left alone initially.
4.- Use their routines
Assign them a designated space to eat, rest, and play, so they can make it their own. Make it as similar as possible to their previous space. Gradually, expand that space over time. Animals have routines, and you can leverage those patterns to help them explore more of the territory. You need to make them associate those elements with their new home. For example, if you have already placed your belongings in the new house, it’s even better, as your scents will provide them with more confidence.
5.- If they stop eating or seem down, accompany them
This often happens with adult or older animals that are not used to change. The best thing to do is to keep them company, take them for walks around the neighbourhood, or walk with them around different areas of the house while calling them to play. This way, they will recognize different smells and spaces. They should sense your scents, which represent trust, in different areas of the house, such as the bed, closets, or sofas.
6.- The adaptation begins during the move
Our little pets are very smart, and they will notice that something is changing as they see all the suitcases packed. Even we might be tense due to the work involved, and our pets will pick up on that. They will be more nervous because they won’t understand the situation, and it’s best not to scold them in these cases or lock them up. That’s why it’s essential to keep them away from this process. If you have someone with whom you can leave them, it’s much better as it avoids this stressful pre-change phase and helps in adapting your pet to its new home.
7.- Be positive and reward them
It’s going to be a challenging phase, and their behaviour may not be the most appropriate at times. Give them some leeway and avoid getting angry with them. When they do something right, praise them and reward them with a treat, whether it’s using the designated spot for their needs or eating from their bowl.
If you need to transport your pet to another country under the best conditions, fill out our online form, and we will provide you with all the possible route options.
