Moving with Your Pet

Moving to a new apartment home is an exciting time. If you have a pet, however, there are some additional factors you’ll need to take into consideration before and during your move. Making sure your pet is safe, secure, and comfortable every step of the way will make the transition to your new Wahiawa home much easier for you both.

Update Pet Health and Identification

Before your move, it’s a great idea to update your pet’s health information and address any medical needs. Take him in for his annual vet checkup and make sure he is up to date on vaccines, flea and tick prevention, and any other health concerns he may have. If you are moving to Hawaii from the mainland, keep in mind that certain pet medical restrictions may apply—you may need to have your pet vaccinated or monitored well in advance of your move. Additionally, check that your pet’s ID is current as well; if his tag still contains your previous address, let your old landlord know how to reach you and make sure the phone number on the tag is correct. Have a new ID made with your new address so you’ll be ready to replace the old one as soon as you move.

Plan Moving Day

It’s important to plan for your pet on moving day. If possible, have your pet stay with a friend or at a boarding facility during the actual move itself, as movers and the commotion associated with moving can be frightening for pets. Alternatively, you can keep your pet confined in a bedroom or bathroom on moving day—place a sign on the door so movers or well-meaning friends don’t accidentally frighten your pet or let him out. Only move your pet once it is calm and quiet; he will feel safer and act more cooperative. If at all possible, try to maintain your normal feeding and walking routine on moving day, as this will also help to keep your pet calm and comfortable.

Provide a Safe Spot

Your pet will need time to acclimate to his new apartment home after your move. Make sure he has a spot where he can feel safe and comfortable, such as a crate, carrier, or bed surrounded by some of his favorite toys. Avoid giving your pet new items immediately after a move—if you want to replace his bed, carrier, or toys, do so well before or well after your move so these items will be familiar during the move itself. Furthermore, try to limit the amount of space your pet has in his new home at first, which will let him get accustomed to each new area before exploring more. Keep bedroom and bathroom doors closed for a few days and allow your pet into one new room each day until he’s seen the entirety of his new apartment home.

You and your pet will both love your new apartment home at Palms of Kilani. Our spacious apartments near Ewa Beach offer convenient access to Oahu and Pearl Harbor, while you can also enjoy some amazing amenities right outside your front door. You can find out more about our Wahiawa apartments on the web, where you can explore our floor plans, gallery, and local neighborhood map.