Planning a Move with Pets? Our Guide to a Stress-Free Transition

Moving is a huge change for everyone, including our four-legged friends. Transitioning into a new home can be very stressful and confusing for beloved cats and dogs. Consider these pet-friendly tips to help them stay calm during and adjust after the move.  

Some dogs love an adventure, and some ... do NOT. Most cats are resistant to change and would likely say, “I’ll pass on moving, thank you, though,” if you asked. Pets are territorial and love their daily routine.

Preparing your pet before and during the moving process, and adding a few special touches after the move, will help ease some anxiety, mitigate the impact of change, and keep them safe while they learn their new home and neighborhood. We’re sharing practical tips to help make the move easier for your pets, both before, during, and after the move.

‍Cats & Dogs Don't Like Moving Either - Try This to Help Before the Move

‍We’re sharing practical tips to help make the move easier for your pets before, during, and after the move.

Pet owners know their cat or dog’s personality and limitations, allowing them to anticipate the toughest part of the move and what will be most helpful. Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine examined stress and certain traits in its article, “Moving to a new home with your dog.”

Planning, decluttering, and packing before the move can disrupt your pet’s routine, environment, and mental health. Keep these traits and challenges in mind before the move and consider ways to mitigate stress.

Personality Traits & Challenges:

• Fearful: Packing parties & no safe space
• Sensitive to Noise: Loud packing noises
• Senior & Less Mobile: Going up or down stairs & weather conditions
• Puppies & More Active: Lots of energy & less training

Ideas to Help Your Pet Before the Move:

• Limit the number of people at your packing parties
• Create a safe and quite space
• Frequent packing breaks & take your dog (or cat - we won't judge) on a walk
• Keep your puppy in a closed room if the front door is open

1. Familiarize Them with Moving Supplies  

Boxes, packing tape, and moving crates can be unfamiliar and intimidating to pets. Let them sniff and explore these items to help reduce their anxiety. Consider placing their favorite toys or blankets inside the boxes or crates to create a positive association.

2. Keep a Routine  

Maintain a consistent routine during the upheaval of a move. Try to keep their feeding, walking, and playtimes as regular as possible. Consistency provides a sense of normalcy and security amidst the chaos of packing and moving preparations.

3. Visit the Vet  

If your pet struggles with serious anxiety, it may be a good idea to seek some help from your veterinarian. Vets can offer more specialized advice for your pet and can prescribe sedatives or anti-anxiety medications that will make your pets more comfortable throughout your move.  

During the Move  

Moving day can be the most stressful part of the process for pets so it’s important to make them as comfortable as possible. If you don’t take the time to properly move your pets, they could start exhibiting some unhealthy behaviors like not eating, hiding, fear-based aggression and more.  

Here are a few tips to keep pets less stressed during your move and avoid these behaviors:

1. Keep Your Pet Secure  

Keep your pets in a quiet, closed room on moving day to prevent them from escaping or getting injured amid the commotion. If you’re in a smaller space without this luxury, consider leaving pets with a friend or at a daycare service for the day.  

2. Travel Safely  

When you transport your pets, use a secure, comfortable carrier for your pet during the journey to your new home. If you’re traveling a long distance by car, take frequent breaks for potty time and stretching.

3. Comfort Them  

Place familiar items like toys, bedding, or a piece of your clothing in their carrier to provide comfort and a sense of security.

After the Move  

Pets are highly adaptable creatures, and with your love, patience, and support, they will soon embrace their new home as enthusiastically as you do. Here are a few ways to help this process along:  

1. Set Up a Dedicated Space  

Establish a cozy corner in your new home with your pet's bed, toys, and other familiar items to create a safe haven for them.

2. Explore Together  

Introduce your pet to the new house gradually, one room at a time. Accompany them during the initial exploration to provide reassurance.

3. Stick to Routines  

Maintain your pet's usual feeding, walking, and playtime schedule to help them adjust to the new surroundings more quickly.

4. Give Extra Love  

Spend quality time with your pet. Offer plenty of attention, cuddles, and playtime to help them feel secure and loved in their new home.

5. Watch for Signs of Stress  

Monitor your pet for signs of anxiety or stress, such as excessive vocalization, loss of appetite, or destructive behavior. If problems persist, consult with your veterinarian.

Learn More About How to Move with Pets and Other Helpful Tips  

By following these tips and being attentive to your pet's needs, you can help ensure a smooth transition for your furry friends during this exciting new chapter in your lives together.

Helping your pets adjust is just one step of the long and complicated moving process. Check out the rest of our blog for more helpful moving tips and expert advice. This article on helping kids adjust to a move is a great place to get started.