10 Tips for Successfully Moving with Pets and Must-Read Resources to Help

Most pet owners have moved at least once in their lives. Perhaps to a new apartment or a new home across the country or globe. Making this significant life change can be a stressful experience. But for a pet, who doesn’t like change nor understand the concept of “relocation,” their anxiety skyrockets. 

Planning for your pet’s move is key.

Just as you do for your psychological and physical transition, you have a plan to help your move go smoothly. The same should be done for your pet. Tossing it in the back of the car and hoping it all lands nicely doesn’t work. 

I’ve personally made many cross-country moves with two dogs, and I’m preparing to do it again.

I’ve learned some hard lessons and discovered some fantastic hacks to help my fur babies enjoy their new home and have a smooth transition experience. But each move is different. And as new pets come along or age, it’s like starting all over again. 

But this isn’t about me. The topic of moving with pets arose in a relocation group, and I quickly learned that most people struggle with this challenge when moving. A lightbulb went off. Books Uplift is the home of experts, books, resources, and uplifting insights. Why not circle the wagons, find the experts, and share their wisdom with the entire Books Uplift Community? Done!

Through my research, I connected with veterinarians, trainers, pet transport experts, behavioralists, and dog whisperers, who were gracious enough to offer their expert advice.  Combining that with some recommended resources resulted in 10 Strategies for Successfully Moving with Pets and the Must-Read Resources to Help.

Crate Train. Every expert I spoke with recommended crate and carrier training. While most pets are familiar with crates and consider them their safe and cozy den, older dogs, especially those adopted from shelters, can also be successfully trained to use crates as a safe and cozy den. Start early so they become comfortable with the process, as it will eventually become their space over time. When you plan to move, a crate or carrier is not only necessary for transport or hotel stays (in some cases) but, more importantly, it’s a safe and familiar shelter away from the fray. 

“Keep the carrier in a visible, open area of your home where your pet will see it every day, says Valerie Neyra, Marketing Coordinator, WorldCare Pet Transport. As trusted experts in pet transportation, they provide a wealth of resources and support for pets and their owners.

“Familiar sight and smell reduce anxiety,” says Valerie. “Feed your pet inside the carrier each day so they associate it with something positive. If your pet seems afraid, remove the door and top half at first, then put those pieces back on later as they become more comfortable.” She also recommends stocking the crate or carrier with favorite toys, treats, and a familiar blanket, so it becomes a place they seek out and enjoy. 

Air Prepare. Many moves involve air travel, especially if it’s overseas. Although many airlines now permit buying seats for pets, not all do. In most cases, crates for pets are required, and that means crate training and travel training well in advance of your transition. 

“Travel training matters, especially for air travel,” says Valerie. “It’s critical for your pet’s well-being to crate-train before the move.” She recommends setting up the carrier in the house, so they get comfortable and familiar with it. “Let them spend 5–10 minutes a day inside. Reward them with attention and treats when they come out. It can also help to take them on short car rides, so they get used to travel sounds.” She also states that airlines’ safety requirements don’t permit toys in travel crates. “Use toys only for training at home. On travel day, instead of placing an unwashed T-shirt that smells like home.”

Buckle Up. Many carriers are suitable for crate training at home, air travel, and car transport, but in some instances, they may not be ideal for use in a vehicle. That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t secure your pet when driving. 

“When traveling, your dog or cat must be safely secured and should never be allowed to roam freely inside the vehicle,” says Dr Preston Turano, MDV and Veterinary Advisor at ASPCA Pet Health Insurance. “This helps prevent injuries in the event of sudden braking or an accident and reduces distracting behavior while driving.” There are numerous options for safely protecting your pet in the car, which can be found at your local pet store or online. “Pets can be secured using a travel carrier or a harness that attaches to the seatbelt,” he says. “If you’re using a carrier, ensure that you follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper installation. For added security, visit the Center for Pet Safety  for certified, crash-tested carriers and harnesses.”

Heed Advice. Your pet’s veterinarian will be the best resource for advice. They know your pet’s medical history and behavior and can offer advice. They may also see if it’s time for calming medications and be able to fill prescriptions for the next six months. To travel safely, smoothly, and handle unexpected issues or emergencies along the way, set an appointment for a pre-travel check-up and conversation with your pet’s trusted care provider.

“Be sure to speak with your veterinarian about your pet’s past travel experiences,” says Dr. Turano. “While traveling with a companion animal is easy for some pet parents, others may find their dogs or cats experience anxiety or motion sickness. Your veterinarian is the best resource for determining whether natural or pharmaceutical remedies could benefit your pet. If your pet has any underlying medical conditions, it’s essential to discuss how those needs can be managed—particularly during long trips. “

You’ll also want to ask about transferring pet records, vaccination records, licenses and tags, as well as care recommendations.

Vet Consultation. In addition to consulting with your current veterinarian, it is also recommended that you contact veterinarians and 24-hour emergency clinics in your target destination before your move. 

“Many pet owners are facing long wait times—often 3 to 6 months—for new patient appointments,” says Dr. Turano. “Some clinics may not be accepting new clients at all.” To avoid this setback, he recommends making a plan well in advance of your move so you can get your pet care when needed. 

Call several veterinarian offices and talk with them about their services so that you can get a feel for their approach and plan for care. Then set up several in-person consultants for after your arrival. Take your pet and ask to meet with the vet for a conversation and pay for a nail trim so you can check out the setting and meet the care team before deciding. Remember, even if you choose one veterinarian practice, if it doesn’t feel right, don’t hesitate to change. That’s why finding several options in advance will make things easier. 

Reduce Anxiety. This seems obvious, and in some cases, it is easier said than done. Keep in mind, when you’re stressed, your pet senses it. Strategies for reducing human anxiety include talking, getting plenty of exercise, which your pets will also benefit from. However, it’s impossible to ask your pet to meditate or take a deep breath, so consider other activities that they may enjoy instead. 

“Some dogs have some bigger reactions to things like moving, and can become anxious and stressed,” says Paige Gordon, Certified Professional Dog Trainer with SpiritDog Training. “Moving houses is a significant life change we will all experience at some point in time, and therefore, our pets will participate in these changes as well!

Packing, moving, traveling, and settling in are sources of stress for us, and often present as even bigger stressors for our furry family members. Providing a lot of calming, positive activities like a stuffed frozen Kong or a collagen stick for them to enjoy while some soothing music plays (which can help drown out noise if your dog is sound sensitive!) can help keep our dogs feeling calm and safe.”

Avoid Isolation. Amidst one of our moves, I almost made the mistake of running an errand without taking my dogs along for the ride. The howling that ensued once I closed the door stopped me in my tracks. I rushed back in, buckled my pups in the backseat, then took them with me. They’d been real troopers throughout the packing, but never considered how they might react to the half-packed home. I felt horrible at the notion that they thought I was abandoning them. Lesson learned! 

Once the moving process, especially packing, has begun, don’t be surprised if your pet becomes clingy. Like children, and perhaps family and friends, the closer proximity to their support system eases anxiety. If possible, try to avoid leaving your pets home alone. The big boxes, the disrupted atmosphere, furniture movement, and all the physical changes can heighten their anxiety. 

Find Daycare. “Whether you are using a moving company or moving all your stuff yourself, you will want to have your pets out of the house on moving day,” says Julie C. Bond, M.S., certified animal behaviorist and board member of the National Association of Animal Behaviorists. “Doors and gates will be open, and you don’t want anyone running off. Additionally, the stress of watching strangers invade their home turf and remove their belongings can result in some pets displaying aggressive behavior.” She recommends exploring daycare options, boarding them, or asking a friend to take them for a day or two, or even overnight. 

“Your goal is to bring them into their new home environment with most of the furniture in place,” says Julie. “Particularly the objects belonging to your pets, such as beds, dishes, cat trees, and toys.  For some pets, the safest way to transport their belongings is for you to do so in your vehicle, ensuring that strangers’ hands don’t touch their belongings.  While you could certainly wash a pet bed when you get to your new home, your pet will find comfort in those familiar smells from the old place.” 

Keep Walking. Even if the move goes smoothly, change will affect everyone involved. Adjusting to a new home, community, and support system, not to mention a new job site, finding new medical professionals, and searching for activities to join—the list of changes to account for is endless. Anxiety will rear its ugly head a time or two for you and your pets. 

“It goes without saying that you will want to be extra kind to yourselves and your pets during a move,” says Julie. “Take that extra walk.  Go for a hike and explore together. Break out the yummy treats. Spend more time playing together, or just relaxing in your new home.”

Walking is excellent therapy for you and your pet.

Whether it’s walking around the house with your cat, carrying your cockatiel on your shoulder, or taking your dog or pet pig for a long stroll. The activity will do you good. If you can get outside, do it. Learn about your neighborhood, meet new people, and start establishing a regular walking path for your dog that they will look forward to each day. 

Establish Routines. “Once you have arrived, stick to your previous routine as close as possible,” says Paige. “This can help your pet transition. Routines provide a sense of security and can help your pets feel at ease in a strange environment.”  

Your pet trusts you.

They know you feed them around the same time each day, play with them, or take them for a walk every morning and evening. These activities solidified the human—pet bond. Structure and routine are critical for maintaining trust and promoting good behavior. 

While you can’t control everything, you can control your schedule.

Having a sense of predictability and routine will give you and your pet a sense of stability and reinforce trust. Sure, there will be unexpected events, disruptions, and appointments, but maintaining your pets’ feeding, walking, play, and sleeping schedules in your new home will go a long way in easing the transition. Structure is essential to minimizing fear and anxiety. When your pet has a routine, it provides a sense of security.

“Pets are susceptible to changes in their environment, and a move can feel overwhelming to them,” says Dr. Wailani Sung, Senior Director of Animal Admissions and Wellbeing, Joybound People & Pets. “But with a little patience and preparation, they can adapt beautifully. The most important thing is to be their constant, your calm presence and consistent care are what help them feel secure, no matter the zip code.” 

All the experts I consulted with in preparing this article are available to assist you if you need support throughout your move. I also highly recommend the following resources to help you prepare for a smooth move with your pet. 

Images Courtesy of Harper Collins Publishing, Pexels, and Angela Passman.