Preparing Your Pets for a Move

Amber RandhawaHomeowner and Homebuyer Tips

The process of looking for a new home, especially if you are also selling your old one, can be stressful and chaotic. So can the time you spend decluttering and packing. Once you have progressed to the point where you are actually moving into your new home, you probably feel a great amount of relief. But this is the point where your pets are most likely to start feeling the anxiety of a move. Pets are typically used to a set routine and familiar surroundings, which helps then to feel secure in their environment. Whether you are simply moving across town or are starting a new chapter on the other side of the country, we have some tips to help make your pet more comfortable during a move.


Go For a Walk

If you are moving to another home in your same town or a town nearby, take your pet exploring ahead of the move. Any animal that can be walked on a leash will benefit from a stroll around their new block, allowing them to go ahead and get used the sights and smells of their new surroundings. Plus, this will help you gain familiarity with the area as well. This is important because if you feel comfortable, your pet is more likely to feel comfortable too. Walking around your new area ahead of time will also allow you to see if there are other more aggressive pets in the area that you might want to avoid, or friendly pets you may want to socialize with. You may even meet pet owners that can direct you to dog parks and pet friendly businesses in the area.

Make a Plan

Cats and dogs both can develop anxiety if their environment changes. If you have the luxury of time, a little while before you actually move, slowly begin packing up your belongings in phases so that there are no sudden or drastic changes in their environment. When the day comes that the movers actually arrive, leave your furry friend in a quiet room or make arrangements for them to spend time away from home, such as at a friend’s house or a pet daycare. It is not only important to keep them out of the way while people are working, but it will also prevent them from escaping through a door left open. Even the happiest pet may get spooked and run if they feel anxiety.

Settling In

When you arrive in your new home, you may be tempted to let your pet out immediately to explore. However, it is best that they remain closed in a separate room to prevent an escape attempt in an unfamiliar location. Choose one room of your new home and let your pet slowly get acclimated to the new sounds and smells while safely sequestered away. Then once the movers are gone and larger items are in place, you can lead them through the house so they can gradually begin to explore while you supervise.

Important Reminders

Make sure that if your pet is on any sort of medication, that you have plenty on hand to last throughout the moving process. If you have moved to another city, go ahead and find a vet – ask your new neighbors for recommendations if possible. And definitely take the time to make sure that your pet’s ID tags and microchip are updated with your most current contact information.