How to Manage a Move With Pets and Kids in Tow
May 23, 2024
Moving can be a challenging adventure, especially with pets and kids involved. It’s a journey that requires careful planning, patience, and the right support. Whether you’re relocating within Toronto or embarking on a long-distance move, this guide offers practical advice to ensure a smooth transition for your entire family, furry members included.
The Challenges of Moving With Pets and Kids
Emotional and Behavioural Impact
Moving can be an emotionally taxing experience for both children and pets. Kids may feel anxious or upset about leaving their familiar surroundings, friends, and routine. Pets, sensitive to changes in their environment, often exhibit signs of stress when their daily routine is disrupted.
This emotional upheaval can manifest in various ways such as clinginess, behavioural changes, or even physical symptoms like loss of appetite.
Safety Concerns
The chaos of moving day presents numerous safety concerns. For kids, the bustle of packing and moving heavy items poses risks of injury. Pets, curious and often unaware of dangers, can easily get underfoot, escape through open doors, or become injured by moving equipment.
Adjustment to New Environment
Adapting to a new home can be challenging for kids and pets. Children might struggle with the loss of their old community and the challenge of making new friends. Pets, particularly those sensitive to changes in their environment, might display behavioural issues as they adjust to a new space.
4 Ways to Ease the Move for Your Pets and Kids
Provide Emotional Support
Open Communication
Talk to your children about the move. Let them express their feelings and concerns, and provide reassurance.
Maintain Routine
Try to keep your family’s daily routine as normal as possible leading up to the move.
Involvement in the Process
Involve kids in the moving process where appropriate, like packing their own belongings or planning their new room.
Comfort Items
Keep comfort items like favourite toys, blankets, or snacks easily accessible for both kids and pets.
Familiarization With New Area
If possible, visit the new neighbourhood with your kids and pets before the move to familiarize them with the area.
Post-Move Activities
Plan fun activities or explore local attractions post-move to create positive associations with the new home.
Select the Right Moving Company
Research and Compare
Start by researching moving companies that specialize in family relocations. Look for customer reviews and ratings to gauge their reputation.
Verify Credentials
Ensure the company is licensed and insured. This provides protection against any potential damages during the move.
Assess Services Offered
Check if the company offers services like packing and unpacking, especially beneficial for families with kids and pets.
Get Detailed Estimates
Request detailed, written estimates from multiple companies. Compare costs, services included, and any additional fees.
Ask About Experience with Families
Inquire about the company’s experience in moving families with kids and pets. Experienced movers will understand the unique challenges and offer solutions.
Confirm Availability and Flexibility
Make sure the company is available on your desired moving date and is flexible in case of any changes.
Creating a Moving House Checklist
Update Medical Records
Ensure all vaccinations and medical records for pets are up to date. For kids, transfer medical records to new healthcare providers in the new location.
Pack Essential Items:
Prepare an essentials bag for the first few days post-move. Include medications, favourite toys, snacks, and necessary documents.
Manage Packing and Unpacking with Kids and Pets
Packing and unpacking can be chaotic with little ones and pets around. It’s important to keep them occupied and safe. Consider hiring a service for packing and unpacking to streamline this process.
Child and Pet Proof the New Home
Before moving in, inspect the new home for potential hazards and child/pet proof accordingly.
Arrange Transportation
Plan how your pets will travel to the new home, considering the most comfortable and safe option for them.
Plan for School and Pet Care Transitions
Prepare for a smooth transition to new schools and pet care routines, including finding local parks and recreational activities for kids, as well as a new veterinarian for pets.
Create a Familiar Environment
Once you arrive at your new home, set up a familiar space for your kids and pets as soon as possible. This can help them adjust more quickly to the new environment.
Keep a Routine
Try to maintain a regular routine for meals, playtime, and bedtime to provide a sense of normalcy.
Ensure Safety During the Move
Child and Pet Care
Arrange for someone to look after your kids and pets on moving day. This keeps them safe and reduces stress.
Clear Pathways
Ensure all walkways and driveways are clear of obstacles to prevent trips and falls.
Safety Equipment
Check that the moving team uses appropriate safety gear like gloves, back braces, and non-slip footwear.
Proper Packing
Make sure all items, especially heavy and fragile ones, are securely packed and labelled.
Vehicle Safety
Verify that the moving trucks are well-maintained and suitable for the safe transport of your belongings.
Emergency Plan
Have a first-aid kit and emergency contacts ready. Inform everyone involved about what to do in case of an emergency.
Regular Breaks and Hydration
Ensure everyone, including movers, takes regular breaks and stays hydrated, especially important on hot days.
Find a Trusted Moving Company
Moving with pets and kids requires additional planning and consideration, but with the right approach, it can be a smooth and positive experience.
Remember, a successful move is not just about transporting belongings; it’s about transitioning your life to a new beginning.
For assistance with your next move, contact Inner City Moving & Storage at 416-656-8924, one of the best moving companies in Toronto, to ensure a seamless and stress-free relocation for you and your loved ones.
