If you’re moving house, especially if you’re going a fair way away from your old home, then it can be tough on your children and pets. They will be leaving what may be the only home they’ve ever known and if you’re moving to Brisbane or another large city from a smaller town, then there will be some big changes that they’ll have to contend with.
Think of moving day as moving week instead
You’re all set for your move and its challenges, but your children and pets may be confused and so they’ll need extra help. If you can, move into your new place over a few days so that everyone has the chance to familiarise themselves with the new house, garden and neighbourhood. Spend longer each day in the new place, filling it with familiar objects, smells and sounds.
Of course, if moving to Brisbane involves an interstate journey, then this won’t be possible, but if you can, then do. A good alternative is to take a virtual tour of the house and neighbourhood.
Collect smells
For dogs in particular, smells are important, so make sure you don’t launder his bed and blankets before you go. Another good tip is to wipe your dogs muzzle and face with a soft cloth as this picks up his personal scent, then wipe it around the new walls and doorframes.
Let the children pack their own boxes
This is just for toys and special clothes, of course – you can wrap the valuables yourself! If they pack and label their own boxes it keeps them occupied and gives them a feeling of control in what can be a stressful time.
Turn it into a camping adventure
If you’ve packed most things away, then turn the whole thing into an adventure by cooking on your barbecue set, sleeping on inflatable beds and even using torches at night. Remember, the emptied-out old place and the new place will be unfamiliar so having a light to hand will offer a lot of reassurance.
Make sure your pets are chipped
You should also tell your old vet where you’re going and register with the new local one, just in case one of your pets makes a break for it. It’s advisable to keep your pets indoors for a week or so and make sure your dog is on a lead when he goes outside until the new place is home.
