Moving already takes a lot of effort and planning, but when you add pets into the picture, it can be even more stressful — for you and them. The boxes, the strangers, the unfamiliar scents and sounds — it’s a lot for your 4-legged friends to take in when they live for routine.
Pets feel every bit of the disruption, and when they’re not themselves, you worry about them. That concern can distract you from checking off tasks from your moving checklist. For your peace of mind, it’s important to keep your furry companion’s environment as calm as possible.
To make sure your move with pets goes off without a hitch, this guide covers everything you need to know about moving with cats and dogs, so you can ease their anxiety and ensure a safe, smooth transition into your new home. From vet visits and packing tips to helping them adjust after the move, we’ll walk you through it all.
Before the Move: Prepare Your Pet for the Transition
Moving with pets starts long before moving day. Just like your to-do list for packing your home and seeing to the details of your move, your pets need the same level of attention. Here are the steps to take as you begin your moving prep:
Head to the Vet
Before your move, schedule a checkup with your current veterinarian. Let them know you’re relocating, and take care of the following:
- Update vaccinations and microchip info: If your pet will be outdoors at your new home, make sure they’re current on rabies, distemper, and any local vaccine requirements.
- Request calming medication: If your pet has a history of anxiety during travel or change, a mild sedative can ease the transition.
- Ask for records and referrals: If you’re switching vets, request a copy of your pet’s medical records. You can also ask for recommendations in your new area.
Update Tags and Microchip
During a move, doors open and close constantly. A stressed pet may bolt or slip out when you aren’t looking. While you hope this doesn’t happen, it’s always better to be prepared in case the worst comes to pass. Help them get returned safely if they escape with updated IDs:
- Old ID tags: Replace them with ones that include your new phone number and address.
- Consider a temporary tag: If you’re in between homes, tag your pet with a cell number and “recently moved” note.
- Existing microchip: Update your pet’s microchip information through your chip provider’s registry.
Get Your Pet Used to Carriers and Travel
Whether your pet is used to road trips or not, you should help them become familiar with travel-related gear ahead of time. If your pet enjoys car rides, they’ll still need to be acclimated for longer road trips that might involve rest stops or gas fill-ups, where you’ll want your pet contained until you’re ready to let them out. Here’s how to get your pets used to traveling:
- Leave the crate or carrier open: Place it in your home with comfy bedding, treats, and toys inside. Let your pet explore it on their own terms.
- Take practice rides in the car: Especially if your pet hasn’t traveled recently. Start with short trips and increase gradually. Reward your pet before, during, and after the car ride.
- Use calming pheromone sprays: Products like Feliway or Adaptil can be sprayed inside carriers to help reduce agitation and pacing.
When you help your pet connect positive experiences with their crate and the car, you also help reduce panic and anxiety on moving day. If you’ve followed these steps, then it will hopefully be just another car trip to them.
Pack a Pet Essentials Bag
Much like you would pack an overnight bag for yourself, your pet needs one too. Put together a bag with these essentials:
- Food and treats (enough for 3–7 days)
- Leash, harness, and waste bags
- Any medications and supplements
- Toys, comfort items, and a blanket with your scent
Keep this kit easy to find and handy during the move, so you’re not digging through boxes when your pet needs something. Try to keep their routine as normal as possible throughout the move and after you’ve reached your new place. They’ll rely on it to help soothe themselves.
Plan for Other Transitions
Moving often changes more than just an address. Your pet’s routine, environment, and access to certain comforts may shift, too. Think ahead and ease these changes before the move where possible:
- Switch specialty food gradually: If your pets’ usual food isn’t available nearby, begin transitioning to a new food before the move.
- Start adjusting walks now: Match your new home’s layout or pace. For example, introduce more structured walks if you’re moving from a large backyard to an apartment.
- Practice being apart: If a job change means more time away from your pet, start building up time alone in small increments.
- Begin “baby manners” training early: If a new child will be joining your household after the move, it’s best to start the adjustment as soon as you can.
Check the Laws
Even when moving locally, laws and pet regulations can vary by city or county. And some states are more pet-friendly than others. Be sure to:
- Research local leash laws and any breed restrictions
- Register your pet with the local municipality if required
- Keep vaccination documents handy. Some regions require proof for licensing
Checking all of these items off now can prevent fines or delays later. It will also keep your pet legal and protected in your new home.
On Moving Day: Keep Pets Safe and Secure
Moving day is unavoidably hectic. Doors are open, boxes are stacked, and people are in and out. That chaos is a perfect recipe for a nervous pet to bolt, hide, or become overwhelmed. But, with just a little planning, you can keep your furry friend calm and contained while the rest of the house is in motion.
Minimize Chaos and Anxiety
While the bustle of moving day can’t be stopped, you can lessen its effects on your pet. By following these tips and generally keeping their area as calm, quiet, and out of the way as possible, you can dampen their stress and lower the risk that they’ll bolt.
- Keep pets away from the action: The less your pet sees of the moving hustle, the better. Place them in a quiet, secure space like a spare bedroom or bathroom — ideally one movers won’t need to access.
- Post a clear sign: Use a “Do Not Enter: Pet Inside” note to prevent helpers from opening the door by accident.
- Block out stressful sounds: Consider playing soft music or using a white noise machine to help mask loud noises from the move.
If possible, have a family member stay in the room with them. You can even take shifts, so you and your family or friends get a short break, and your pets always have a companion.
Transport Pets Safely
Just as you kept your pets safe at home by securing them to prevent injury or escape, you’ll want to do the same during the drive to your new place. Focus on safety first by making sure they’re properly contained and comfortable for the journey.
- Secure pets in the car: Use crates or carriers buckled in with seat belts. Loose pets can panic or distract the driver, creating a safety hazard.
- Never use the moving truck: Pets should never ride in the back of a moving truck or cargo trailer, even briefly. These spaces aren’t climate-controlled and can be dangerous.
- Plan safe pit stops: On long drives, map out rest stops where your pet can stretch their legs, hydrate, and use the bathroom.
Bonus tip: Even if you don’t usually feed them at the time you’re moving, give pets a light meal before you hit the road to reduce motion sickness during the ride.
Consider a Pet Sitter
If possible, arrange for a trusted friend or sitter to watch your pet away from the house entirely. This causes the least amount of anxiety, as your pet is free from the noise and chaos of constant movement. If you don’t have someone available to watch your pet during the move, consider a pet daycare or boarding service.
A reputable caretaker or day camp can:
- Keep your pet calm and comfortable while you focus on logistics
- Prevent accidental escapes during loading and unloading
- Give your pet structured care and attention when you can’t
If you’re using a new sitter or facility, do a short test run before moving day so your pet feels more at ease at the facility.
After the Move: Help Your Pet Adjust to Their New Home
You’ve made it to your new home, but your pet is very confused about what just happened. New smells, new sounds, and a whole new layout can leave pets feeling uneasy or anxious. You can read some expert advice on helping your furry friend adjust, but here are a few quick tips to get you started.
Set Up a Familiar Space Right Away
If possible, set up your pet’s comfort zone before moving day so it is ready the moment you arrive. If that is not an option, make recreating it your first priority, even before you finish unpacking.
- Create a comfort zone: Set up their bed, food and water bowls, and favorite toys in a quiet corner. Try to make this somewhere you can stick with for a while.
- Use familiar scents: Give your pet familiar items that carry your scent and the scent from your old home to help comfort them.
- Stick to routines: Maintain your regular schedule for feeding, walks, and playtime as much as possible. The more predictable, the better.
If you can, stay home for the first few days after the move. This helps ease their separation anxiety and reinforces that the new space is safe.
Introduce New Spaces Slowly
Limit your pet’s access to just one area on the first day to prevent them from feeling overwhelmed and to keep them from getting underfoot while you unpack. This also helps them adjust to the new smells and sounds in a controlled space and ensures you always know where they are if they hide when anxious.
- Take it slow indoors: Let them explore one room at a time, especially if they have a timid personality or are prone to anxiety.
- Confine cats initially: Don’t allow cats outside until they’ve fully adjusted inside. Start with one room that includes all their essentials. Too much space too soon can overwhelm them — this process usually takes several weeks.
- Supervise outdoor time: Keep dogs leashed or in a fenced yard whenever they’re outside until they’re fully acclimated.
- Use positive reinforcement: Offer treats, praise, and calm interaction as they explore. This helps speed up their comfort with the new space.
Be Patient With Behavioral Changes
Even the most confident pets can show signs of stress during a move. Common (and temporary) behaviors include:
- Wanting to constantly be near you
- Lack of appetite or activity
- Accidents, even in house-trained pets
Avoid scolding or correcting too much. Instead, stay consistent, calm, and encouraging. This typically resolves itself as your pet gets used to the new place. However, if the changes in behavior continue for more than a couple of weeks, consult your vet to rule out health concerns.
“When you help your pet connect positive experiences with their crate and the car, you also help reduce panic and anxiety on moving day.”
With time, your pet will begin to relax and make the new house feel like home, just like you will.
Pet-Specific Relocation Tips
While general moving advice can apply to any pet, different pets have different needs. Here are a few more specific tips to help make the transition smoother for a dog, a cat, or something a little more exotic.
Moving With Dogs
Dogs are often more adaptable than other pets, but that doesn’t mean they won’t feel the stress of a move. Here’s how you can help them transition smoothly.
Before the move:
- Review basic commands, especially come, sit, and stay.
- Start walking your dog in new patterns if your walking routine will change (e.g., fewer off-leash areas or more sidewalk time).
- Use rewards and positive reinforcement to help your dog feel confident around moving boxes, tape dispensers, and packed spaces.
During the move:
- Always leash your dog during transport, even if they’re used to being loose in the car.
- Keep them in a secure crate or confined space during loading and unloading to avoid escape.
- Pack a separate travel bag with poop bags, water, food, and familiar toys.
After the move:
- Walk your dog around the new neighborhood on leash to help them get used to new smells and sounds.
- Stick to a consistent feeding and potty schedule.
- Use pet apps like BringFido or Sniffspot to find nearby off-leash parks or playgroups. These resources typically have both a website and a mobile app available.
Don’t forget to learn your new area’s leash laws and pet ordinances. Even local laws can change a lot from your old location.
Moving With Cats
Cats are creatures of habit and tend to take moves harder than dogs. Here are a few ways to ease their adjustment.
Before the move:
- Leave the carrier out for days or weeks beforehand with treats and toys inside.
- Get your cat comfortable with short car rides. Bring a soft blanket that smells familiar.
- Cats are very scent-driven. Use calming pheromone sprays or diffusers to reduce stress.
During the move:
- Contain cats in a closed room or crate while movers are present.
- Transport them in a hard-sided carrier with ventilation, and cover it with a light towel to help them feel secure.
- Never open the carrier while outside.
After the move:
- Confine your cat to one room at first with their litter box, food, water, and bedding.
- Slowly introduce them to the rest of the house over several days.
- Check all windows and screens to make sure they’re secure before giving your cat wider access.
Keep an eye on them and watch for signs of stress like hiding, appetite loss, or excessive grooming.
Moving With Small Animals (Rabbits, Hamsters, Birds, etc.)
Small pets can also be sensitive to movement, temperature changes, and noise. Handle them with extra care.
Before the move:
- Check that your carrier or cage is secure and escape-proof.
- Avoid overfeeding or overstimulating the animal before the trip.
- Research pet laws. Some states have restrictions on certain birds, reptiles, or exotic pets.
During the move:
- Keep small animals in cages that are safe for travel and offer both security and fresh air.
- Avoid placing them near drafts or direct sunlight in the car.
- Maintain an even temperature, and keep the interior of the vehicle as quiet as possible.
After the move:
- Set their enclosure up in a low-traffic, calm area of the home.
- Get back to their feeding, cleaning, and playtime routine immediately.
- Give them a few days to adjust before handling or moving them again.
Moving With Exotic or Large Animals
Reptiles, fish, and larger animals (like goats, chickens, or horses) need extra special planning. In some cases, hiring a professional pet relocation service may be your best option.
Before the move:
- Research specific transport laws related to your animal.
- Prepare the containers you’ll need (i.e., travel tanks, heat packs, humidity control for reptiles, cartons, trailers, etc.).
- For fish, move them in their existing tank water in sealable plastic bags or containers with lids.
During the move:
- Avoid feeding reptiles or amphibians within 24 hours of travel to prevent regurgitation.
- Do not transport fish in extreme temperatures, and avoid car trunks or truck beds.
- For farm animals, check fencing and shelter availability at the new property.
After the move:
- Set up their habitat exactly as it was before the move, including lighting and temperature conditions.
- Avoid sudden changes to food, lighting cycles, or social environments.
- Schedule a wellness check with a vet that specializes in exotic or large animals if needed.
What to Know About Moving Pets Long-Distance or Across the Country
A local move can rattle your pet, but moving cross-country takes things to a whole other level. If your move goes beyond city limits, there are a few extra details to keep in mind so your pet remains safe and comfortable for the long haul. Here’s how to prepare for a cross-country relocation.
Pet Travel Options:
Car travel
This is often the best for pets who don’t handle change well, and is also typically the cheapest and most available way to move for you.
Pros:
- Most control over your pet’s environment and schedule
- Less stressful for pets used to car rides
- Can stop for breaks as needed
Cons:
- Requires planning pet-friendly lodging along the route
- Longer travel times can be tiring for both you and your pet
- Can be unsafe if pets aren’t properly secured in the vehicle
Air travel
Commercial airlines allow small pets in-cabin, while larger animals typically travel in cargo. Each airline has different pet policies and restrictions, so be sure to double-check with any you plan on using for your move.
Pros:
- Much faster travel, especially for long distances
- In-cabin travel keeps small pets close
Cons:
- Cargo holds can be stressful or even dangerous for pets
- Size and breed restrictions apply
- Requires health documentation and advance booking
Pet transport services
Professional pet relocation companies can handle everything for you.
Pros:
- Professional care and handling during the journey
- Often includes GPS tracking, climate control, and regular updates
Cons:
- Can be costly
- Less personal interaction with your pet during the move
- Requires trust in a third party
Legal & Health Requirements:
- Get a health certificate: Bring a Certificate of Veterinary Inspection dated within 10 days of travel. Some states require this for entry.
- Verify rabies vaccination: Make sure your pet’s rabies shot is up to date and properly documented.
- Update microchip info: Ensure your pet’s microchip registration reflects your new address and contact details.
- Check state laws along your route: Know the leash laws, breed restrictions, and pet registration requirements in each state you’ll pass through.
Packing Tips for the Journey:
- Pack a travel kit: Keep a well-stocked pet travel bag with food, water, medications, and comfort items.
- Plan your route: Map it out in advance, including rest stops and nearby emergency vet clinics.
- Never leave pets unattended: Don’t leave your pet alone in a parked vehicle — even briefly.
Moving pets long-distance takes extra planning, but it doesn’t have to add stress — for you or your pet.
What to Know About Moving Pets Abroad
Relocating internationally with pets involves more than just booking a flight. Each country has its own rules, paperwork, and timelines for importing animals.
Import Laws Vary Widely
- Understand country-specific rules: Every country has different pet import regulations, including quarantine requirements, banned breeds, and vaccination protocols.
- Plan far in advance: Some countries (like Australia or Japan) require several months of prep and health screenings.
- Contact officials directly: Reach out to the destination country’s consulate or agriculture department for official guidelines.
Essential Documents and Steps
- Get official health records: Health certificates and updated vaccinations (especially rabies) are mandatory and usually must be signed by a USDA-accredited veterinarian.
- Prepare for titer tests: Some countries require blood tests to confirm immunity levels.
Ensure proper microchipping: Most countries require ISO-compliant chips — check yours in advance. - Use the right crate: Secure an airline-approved travel crate that meets IATA standards.
Other Considerations
- Watch for climate changes: Even subtle shifts in weather can impact your pet’s health.
- Adjust for time zones: Plan for jet lag and feeding schedule changes if crossing multiple zones.
- Transition food and meds early: Ensure you’ll have access to familiar brands, or begin transitioning before departure.
- Research veterinary care: Find a local vet in advance and prepare for potential language barriers.
Repatriation Planning
International pet travel is manageable when you’re prepared. If you feel the process is overwhelming, consider hiring a pet travel specialist.
Your Pet’s New Home Starts With You
Your pet’s experience depends on the preparation and care you provide. All of that effort and time pays off in the form of a calm, healthy, and happy companion in your new home. From vet visits and training tweaks to familiar first days, even small adjustments can make a big difference.
Your pet doesn’t just need a new house. They need reassurance, routine, and love to feel at home. With a little patience (and a lot of treats), they’ll settle in faster than you think. They might even claim that sunny windowsill or bench before you unpack your first box.