7 Tips for Moving with Pets

Toni Marie Cafferty | November 14, 2024

Moving can be a stressful event for everyone involved, including your pets. With unfamiliar surroundings, disruptions in their routine, and the hustle and bustle of packing, your pets might feel anxious and confused. But with some careful planning, you can help make the transition smoother for your furry friends. Whether you're moving across town or to a new state, these tips will ensure your pets remain comfortable and safe throughout the process.

1. Prepare a Moving Plan that Includes Your Pets

Just like you make detailed plans for packing and transporting your belongings, it's important to include your pets in those preparations. Start by determining the best way to transport them to the new location, considering their size, temperament, and species. Cats and small dogs can often travel in carriers, while larger dogs might need more space and breaks during the journey.

If you're moving a long distance, you may need to book accommodations that are pet-friendly or plan out stops where your pets can stretch their legs and relieve themselves. Additionally, be sure to research the pet policies in your new home or neighborhood, such as leash laws, dog parks, and local veterinarians.

2. Keep Your Pet’s Routine as Normal as Possible

Pets thrive on routine. During a move, when everything is changing around them, it's crucial to maintain as much of their regular schedule as possible. Feed your pet at the usual times, take them for walks at their normal intervals, and try not to disrupt their exercise routine.

If you're packing, try to do it in stages rather than all at once. This way, your pet won't feel overwhelmed by the sudden appearance of boxes everywhere. If possible, set up a quiet room or space where your pet can relax while you pack. Keeping a sense of normalcy will help reduce their stress and anxiety.

3. Pack an Essentials Kit for Your Pet

Before the moving day, prepare a "pet essentials" kit with everything your pet might need during the journey and in the first few days at your new home. This kit should include:

Food and water
Food and water bowls
Leashes, harnesses, or carriers
Medications and medical records
A favorite toy or blanket
Waste bags or litter box supplies

Having these items readily available will ensure that your pet’s needs are met during the move, and they’ll have comforting, familiar objects nearby as they adjust to the new environment.

4. Make Transportation Comfortable and Safe

The actual process of transporting your pet can be one of the most stressful parts of the move, both for you and your pet. For car travel, use a well-ventilated carrier that’s secure but comfortable. Make sure it’s big enough for your pet to stand, turn around, and lie down. Secure the carrier in the car so it doesn’t shift during the drive. For larger dogs, a pet seatbelt or harness can keep them safe while giving them some room to move.

If you’re flying with your pet, check the airline’s policies in advance. Some pets may be allowed in the cabin if they meet size requirements, while others may need to travel in the cargo hold. In either case, make sure your pet’s carrier is airline-approved and that your pet has proper identification, including an ID tag and microchip information.

5. Introduce your pet to the new home gradually

Once you arrive at your new home, it’s best to introduce your pet to the space gradually. Start by confining them to one room, which can help reduce their stress as they adjust to the unfamiliar environment. Make sure this room has their bed, toys, food, water, and a litter box if necessary.

As your pet becomes more comfortable, you can slowly introduce them to other areas of the home. Give them time to explore at their own pace. Avoid overwhelming them with too many new experiences at once, and be patient as they adjust to their new surroundings.

6. Update Your Pet’s Information

After moving, it’s important to update all of your pet’s identification information. This includes their microchip details, ID tags, and registration with your local animal control or pet licensing authority. If your pet has a microchip, contact the registry to update your address and phone number.

Also, find a new veterinarian in your area and transfer your pet’s medical records. Having a trusted vet nearby will give you peace of mind in case of emergencies or routine check-ups.

7. Be Mindful of Your Pet’s Behavior During the Move

Moving can be overwhelming for pets, and their behavior may change as a result. Watch for signs of stress, such as excessive panting, pacing, whining, or hiding. If your pet seems particularly anxious, you may want to consult with your veterinarian about potential calming aids, such as pheromone sprays or anxiety wraps.

It’s also important to avoid leaving your pet unattended in a new environment during the early days. Pets, especially cats, may try to escape and find their way back to their old home or hide in small spaces. Keeping an eye on them will help prevent accidents and ensure they feel secure.

Moving with pets requires careful planning and consideration, but by following these tips, you can make the experience less stressful for both you and your furry companions. From preparing an essentials kit to ensuring a smooth transition into your new home, your pets will feel safe and loved every step of the way.

Partner with Toni Cafferty

For expert real estate guidance and personalized support during your move, reach out to Toni Cafferty. She’s here to help you and your pets find the perfect home.

Toni Marie Cafferty

Primary phone
(904) 449-2184
Email
[email protected]
Address
851 W Morse Avenue,
Winter Park, FL 32789

About the Author

A true native, Toni Marie Cafferty calls Florida home. Originally from Jacksonville, she moved to Central Florida while attending the private university of Stetson where she graduated with a degree in Marketing and International Business. With time spent in Austria, Germany, Italy, Switzerland, and the Netherlands, she loves to explore other cultures. In her real estate career, she’s had the pleasure to work with buyers from around the world.

As a Realtors® daughter, Toni Marie was raised in the real estate industry and contributes her high level of client care to that of her mother. Toni Marie caters to the luxury market with a white glove-style all her own. Just as the Golden Rule states, “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you,” Toni Marie takes this to the next level offering superb client care. When asked, she says “it’s all about the details and being present with those you are working with whether it be in-person or over the phone. Be ahead of your client’s questions and help provide clarity and honest feedback.”

Toni Marie Cafferty’s Gold Standard (#tmcgoldstandard) has garnered respect from her colleagues and clients alike as she grows her real estate profession. In the past 9 years, she has managed over $94 million in sales and she’s not slowing down; rather she is expanding her reach with Compass to help more buyers find their place and continue to shatter records for her sellers. Most recently, Toni Marie has been the highest priced estate under contract in Windermere, Florida since 2019 and set a new price per square foot high in the exclusive community of Isleworth Golf & Country Club.

Toni Marie rounds out her career with a balance of time spent with her friends and family. Her husband, Brett, and their two dogs are looking forward to growing their family over the next few years as they continue to call Central Florida their home.