Pets on the move

Moving house can be one of the most stressful experiences in life, both physically and emotionally, especially with the added complications of social distancing. So imagine how confusing this time can be for our pets, who can’t understand why all these changes are taking place.

PDSA vet Anna Ewers Clark says: “Worrying that your pet might struggle to settle into a new home can add yet another layer of stress to the moving process.

“Even confident pets can be daunted by all the comings and goings ahead of moving day, so try to keep at least one room free of too much change, where they can get away and find a bit of normality.

“Leading up to the move, gradually place food and water bowls, litter trays, toys and beds into this room. On moving day, they should then be happy to remain in one secure room for a number of hours for reassurance, with regular opportunities to go to the toilet.

“Some pets may benefit from staying elsewhere to avoid the flurry of movingday tasks. Once you’ve had a few days to settle in and everything smells more like home, you can then introduce your pet to your new home.”

There are steps you can take to help your pet settle quickly. For example, ensure your pet’s microchip details are up to date to increase the chance of you being reunited with your pet should they go missing or escape during the move. If your pet seems nervous and doesn’t want to eat, small amounts of their usual food throughout the day will be gentler on their tummy while they are feeling anxious.

At your new home, place some of your pet’s toys and bedding into one room with a piece of clothing that smells of you. Dogs will usually prefer for you to spend some time with them to help them settle, but most cats will be keen to explore and may prefer some time alone to investigate their new surroundings.

“Watching for the swallows to depart,” says John Fotheringham, “I see starlings (with nests in the hedge) line up on the telephone wires. It must be a good year for starlings – this is the first time in 30 years I have seen this in Ardler, Meigle.”

Isobel Margaret Westwater (nee Hood) of Cupar has sent in this photograph of a class from Abbey School, Arbroath, in 1939. “I am seventh from the left in the second back row,” she says.