Moving to a new home is an exciting experience for you, but it’s not always so easy for your beloved pets. Whether you’re traveling across town or relocating to a new state, the changes in environment and routine can leave your pet feeling stressed and unsettled. This guide will walk you through a few practical, pet-centered tips to help make your move as smooth and comfortable as possible — for everyone involved.
Start With A Pre-Move Plan
Before the moving truck pulls into the driveway, take the time to map out a plan focused on your pet’s needs. Think about how they’ll handle disruptions in routine, how they’ll be transported, and what steps you can take to minimize stress in the weeks leading up to the move.
Visit your veterinarian to ensure your pet is up to date on vaccinations and get any necessary prescriptions. Ask for copies of medical records and discuss options for calming travel anxiety. If you’re moving long-distance, request referrals for vets near your new location so that you’re not starting from scratch after the move.
Visit your veterinarian to ensure your pet is up to date on vaccinations and get any necessary prescriptions. Ask for copies of medical records and discuss options for calming travel anxiety. If you’re moving long-distance, request referrals for vets near your new location so that you’re not starting from scratch after the move.
Update Tags And Microchip Info
One of the most critical steps to take before moving day is updating your pet’s identification. If your pet wears a tag, make sure that your new address and current phone number are included. If your pet is microchipped, contact the registry to update your contact details. The updated ID ensures that if your pet gets lost during the move, you have the best chance of being reunited quickly.
Stick To Your Pet’s Routine
Your pet relies on their routine for comfort, so do your best to maintain their feeding schedule, play times, and sleep patterns. Even when you're surrounded by moving boxes, try to feed your dog or cat at their regular times. Keeping those daily rituals in place sends a signal to your pet that everything is okay and gives them something to rely on when everything else feels unfamiliar.
If possible, pack gradually over several days or weeks so that your pet isn’t overwhelmed by sudden chaos. Allow them to investigate the boxes and new smells on their own terms rather than forcing them to interact with a changing environment.
If possible, pack gradually over several days or weeks so that your pet isn’t overwhelmed by sudden chaos. Allow them to investigate the boxes and new smells on their own terms rather than forcing them to interact with a changing environment.
Prepare A Pet Travel Kit
Before the move, assemble a dedicated travel bag for your pet. This should include food, collars, a favorite toy, treats, a blanket that smells like home, and any necessary medications. You’ll want to have this kit handy during your move, especially if you’re spending long hours on the road or staying somewhere overnight. Having familiar items nearby can help reduce anxiety and give your pet a sense of normalcy in unfamiliar settings.
Keep Pets Away On Moving Day
Moving day is filled with noise, open doors, and strangers coming in and out — all of which can cause stress or even lead to a pet escaping. To avoid this, consider boarding your pet for the day or asking a trusted friend or sitter to watch them until the move is complete.
If that’s not possible, set up a quiet, enclosed room away from all the commotion. Stock it with your pet’s bed, water, and some toys. Place a sign on the door letting movers know not to enter this space. This keeps your pet safe while allowing you to focus on the move.
If that’s not possible, set up a quiet, enclosed room away from all the commotion. Stock it with your pet’s bed, water, and some toys. Place a sign on the door letting movers know not to enter this space. This keeps your pet safe while allowing you to focus on the move.
Transport Your Pet Safely
When it’s time to head to your new home, make sure that your pet is transported securely. Cats and small dogs should always travel in a crate or carrier that’s large enough for them to stand, turn, and lie down. Larger dogs can use a properly fitting harness or travel crate inside the car.
Avoid packing your pet’s carrier into the moving truck — always bring your pet with you. Make frequent stops for water, bathroom breaks, and reassurance, especially during long drives.
Avoid packing your pet’s carrier into the moving truck — always bring your pet with you. Make frequent stops for water, bathroom breaks, and reassurance, especially during long drives.
Set Up A Pet-Safe Space First
When you arrive at your new home, don’t try to introduce your pet to the entire house right away. Instead, create a small, comfortable space that feels familiar and safe with their bed, some toys, water, and food. Once your pet seems calm in this new space, you can slowly introduce them to other areas of the house. Let them explore at their own pace, and stay nearby for reassurance. The slower the transition, the more confident and relaxed your pet will feel.
Ultimately, moving with your pet is a big achievement. Once the boxes are unpacked and you’ve settled in, take the time to relax and enjoy your new home together. The real win is knowing you’ve helped your pet feel safe and supported throughout the transition.
If you’re ready to get started on the journey, connect with the team at The DH Citadel Real Estate for expert guidance as you explore your real estate options in Plainview, NY.
