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Moving with Pets

Tips and advice for making your move less stressful for your furry, feathered, or scaly family members.

Moving is Stressful for Pets Too

Moving to a new home can be just as stressful for your pets as it is for you. Animals thrive on routine and familiarity, and a move disrupts both. With proper planning and care, you can help make the transition smoother for your animal companions.

This guide provides tips for before, during, and after your move to help minimize stress for dogs, cats, birds, and other pets. Remember that each animal is unique, so adapt these suggestions to suit your pet's specific needs and temperament.

Moving with Dogs

Before the Move

  • Update your dog's ID tags and microchip information with your new address.
  • Research veterinarians in your new area and transfer medical records.
  • Maintain your dog's regular routine as much as possible during packing.
  • Pack a separate bag with your dog's essentials: food, treats, toys, medications, and bedding.

During the Move

  • Keep your dog in a quiet, secure room with familiar items while movers are present.
  • For car travel, use a secure crate or harness and take regular breaks for exercise and bathroom needs.
  • Never leave your dog alone in a parked vehicle, especially in warm weather.
  • If flying, check airline pet policies well in advance and consider a direct flight.

After the Move

  • Set up a familiar space with your dog's bed, toys, and water bowl right away.
  • Keep your dog on a leash during initial exploration of the new neighborhood.
  • Maintain feeding and walking schedules as close to normal as possible.
  • Be patient with accidents or behavioral changes as your dog adjusts to the new environment.

Moving with Cats

Before the Move

  • Update your cat's ID tags and microchip information with your new address.
  • Get your cat accustomed to their carrier weeks before the move by leaving it open with treats inside.
  • Consider using pheromone products like Feliway to reduce anxiety.
  • Pack a separate bag with your cat's essentials: food, litter, toys, and medications.

During the Move

  • Keep your cat in a quiet, secure room with food, water, and litter while movers are present.
  • Transport your cat in a secure carrier, never loose in the car.
  • Cover the carrier with a light blanket to reduce visual stimulation during travel.
  • For long trips, set up a small litter box in a secure area of your vehicle during breaks.

After the Move

  • Set up a quiet room with familiar items, food, water, and litter box before releasing your cat.
  • Allow your cat to explore the new home gradually, one room at a time.
  • Keep your cat indoors for at least 2-3 weeks to prevent them from trying to return to your old home.
  • Maintain consistent feeding times and litter box locations to provide stability.

Moving with Birds and Small Pets

Birds

  • Transport birds in a small, secure travel cage with familiar toys.
  • Cover the cage during transport to reduce stress from visual stimulation.
  • Maintain consistent temperature and avoid drafts during travel.
  • Set up their cage in a quiet area of your new home before introducing them to the space.

Birds are particularly sensitive to temperature changes and airborne toxins. Never transport birds in moving trucks, and be cautious with air fresheners or cleaning products in your new home.

Small Pets (Hamsters, Guinea Pigs, Rabbits, etc.)

  • Transport small animals in their regular cage if possible, or a secure travel carrier.
  • Provide extra bedding for comfort during travel.
  • Keep the carrier out of direct sunlight and maintain a comfortable temperature.
  • Provide fresh vegetables with high water content during travel to maintain hydration.
  • Set up their habitat in a quiet, low-traffic area of your new home.

Small pets can be particularly sensitive to stress and temperature changes. Monitor them closely during and after the move for signs of stress or illness.

General Tips for All Pet Owners

  • Consult Your Veterinarian:

    Discuss your move with your vet, especially for older pets or those with health conditions. They may recommend mild sedatives or other strategies to reduce stress.

  • Research Pet Regulations:

    If moving to a new state or country, research pet import regulations, required vaccinations, and quarantine requirements well in advance.

  • Update Identification:

    Ensure all pets have proper ID tags with your current phone number and new address. Update microchip registration information promptly.

  • Pack a Pet First-Aid Kit:

    Include basic first aid supplies, any medications your pet takes, and contact information for veterinarians in both your current and new locations.

  • Be Patient:

    It can take pets anywhere from a few days to several months to fully adjust to a new home. Be patient and provide extra attention and reassurance during this transition.

Need Help with Your Move?

Our professional movers understand the importance of keeping your pets safe and comfortable during a move. Contact us today to learn how we can help make your relocation stress-free for the whole family.