Moving Home With Pets: A Practical Guide for a Stress Free Move

Harvey, the family dog helping to pack!

Moving home is a big change for everyone in the household, including your pets. While you may understand what is happening, your dog, cat or smaller animals will simply notice unfamiliar activity, packed boxes and disruption to their routine.

With a little forward planning, moving with pets can be smooth and stress free.

1. Prepare in Advance

Pets are creatures of habit, so sudden changes can cause anxiety. In the weeks leading up to your move:

• Keep feeding and walking routines consistent

• Leave packing until gradually closer to moving day

• Keep favourite bedding and toys accessible

• Ensure microchip details and ID tags are up to date

If you are moving further afield, register with a new vet in advance and arrange for records to be transferred.

2. Create a Safe Space on Moving Day

Moving day can be noisy and busy. Doors are open, people are coming and going, and furniture is being moved out.

To keep your pet safe:

• Allocate a quiet room away from activity

• Leave familiar bedding and water available

• Inform the removals team that a pet is in the property

• Consider asking a friend, family member or pet sitter to look after them for the day

This is particularly important for cats and small animals who may try to hide or escape.

3. Travelling to Your New Home

Transport pets safely and comfortably:

• Use secure carriers for cats and small animals

• Ensure dogs are properly restrained in the vehicle

• Bring water and comfort items

• Plan rest stops for longer journeys

Never transport pets loose in the vehicle during a move.

4. Settling Into the New Property

Your new house may feel unfamiliar to your pet at first. Help them adjust by:

• Setting up their bed, food and water in a quiet area immediately

• Keeping them indoors initially (especially cats)

• Walking dogs on a lead until they are familiar with the area

• Maintaining normal feeding and exercise routines

Give them time to explore gradually rather than overwhelming them with the entire property at once.

5. Extra Considerations for Different Pets

Dogs:

Dogs often adapt quickly if their owners remain calm. Stick to regular walks and reassurance.

Cats:

Cats are more territorial and may take longer to settle. Keep them indoors for at least two to three weeks before allowing supervised outdoor access.

Small animals and reptiles:

Avoid sudden temperature changes and ensure cages or tanks are secured properly during transit.

6. Reduce Stress for Everyone

Pets often mirror their owner’s emotions. Staying organised and planning ahead will help create a calmer environment on moving day.

Professional removals teams are experienced in working around families and pets. Let your movers know in advance so they can take extra care with doors, gates and access points.

Final Thoughts

Moving home with pets requires a little extra thought, but with the right preparation it does not need to be stressful.

By keeping routines consistent, planning for moving day, and allowing time to settle in, you can help your pets adjust comfortably to their new surroundings.

If you are planning a move and would like advice on preparing your home, our team at Statham & Company will be happy to help make the process as smooth as possible for every member of the family, including the four legged ones.