Moving Home with Pets: A Stress-Free Guide

Moving home is a significant change for everyone in the household, including your pets. While you may understand what is happening, your dog, cat, or smaller animals will notice the unfamiliar activity, packed boxes, and disruption to their routine. With a little forward planning, moving with pets can be smooth and stress-free.

Prepare in Advance

Pets are creatures of habit, so sudden changes can cause anxiety. In the weeks leading up to your move, it’s essential to keep things consistent. Here are some tips to help you prepare:

• Maintain Routines: Keep feeding and walking routines consistent. This familiarity will help ease their anxiety.

• Pack Gradually: Leave packing until closer to moving day. This will help your pets adjust to the changes without feeling overwhelmed.

• Keep Essentials Accessible: Ensure that your pets' favourite bedding and toys are easily accessible. This will provide comfort during the transition.

• Update Identification: Make sure microchip details and ID tags are up to date. This is crucial for their safety.

  
  

If you are moving further afield, register with a new vet in advance and arrange for records to be transferred. This will ensure your pets receive the care they need in their new environment.

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: Designate a quiet room away from the activity. This will be their safe haven during the chaos.

• Provide Familiar Items: Leave familiar bedding and water available in their safe space.

• Inform the Removals Team: Let the removals team know that a pet is in the property. This will help them take extra care.

• Consider Temporary Care: If possible, ask a friend, family member, or pet sitter to look after them for the day. This can significantly reduce stress for both you and your pets.

  
  

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

Travelling to Your New Home

Transporting pets safely and comfortably is crucial. Here are some tips for a smooth journey:

• Use Secure Carriers: For cats and small animals, secure carriers are essential. This keeps them safe and contained.

• Restrain Dogs Properly: Ensure dogs are properly restrained in the vehicle. A seatbelt harness or a crate can work well.

• Bring Comfort Items: Pack water and comfort items to help them feel secure during the journey.

• Plan Rest Stops: For longer journeys, plan rest stops. This allows your pets to stretch and relieve themselves.

  
  

Never transport pets loose in the vehicle during a move. This can be dangerous for both them and the driver.

Settling Into the New Property

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

• Set Up Their Space: Immediately set up their bed, food, and water in a quiet area. This gives them a sense of familiarity.

• Keep Them Indoors Initially: Especially for cats, keep them indoors at first. This helps them acclimate to their new environment.

• Walk Dogs on a Lead: When you take your dogs outside, keep them on a lead until they are familiar with the area.

• Maintain Routines: Stick to normal feeding and exercise routines. This consistency will help them feel secure.

  
  

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

Extra Considerations for Different Pets

Different pets have different needs. Here are some tailored tips:

Dogs: Dogs often adapt quickly if their owners remain calm. Stick to regular walks and provide 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. This will help prevent stress and injury.

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 doesn’t 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.

For more information, check out our services here.