Moving With Pets: A Step-by-Step Guide

Moving is stressful for everyone — including your pets. Animals are highly sensitive to changes in routine and environment. With the right preparation, you can make the transition much smoother for them.

Before the Move

Visit the Vet

• Get an up-to-date health certificate (required for some states and air travel)
• Ask about anxiety medication if your pet is easily stressed
• Update microchip information with your new address
• Get copies of vaccination records

Update ID Tags

• New address and phone number on the collar tag
• Consider a temporary tag with your cell number during the move

Keep Routines

• Maintain feeding, walk, and play schedules as long as possible
• Hold off on buying new furniture or rearranging until after the move

On Moving Day

• Keep pets in a quiet, closed room away from the chaos — put a sign on the door so movers don't open it
• Pack a "pet bag" with food, water, bowls, leash, waste bags, favorite toy, and medications
• Never leave pets in a parked car in warm weather

Settling Into the New Place

1. Start small — let them explore one or two rooms first before giving full access
2. Bring familiar scents — their bed, blanket, and toys from the old place
3. Stick to routines — same walk times, feeding times, and bedtimes
4. Watch for stress signs — hiding, not eating, or excessive vocalization

Finding Pet-Friendly Services

If you need pet sitting, dog walking, or pet transportation during your move, browse our pet service providers in your area.

Moving with pets takes a little extra effort, but the reward of exploring a new home together is worth it! 🐾