6 Tips for Moving with Pets

Moving to a new home is an exciting step, but if you’re bringing pets along, the process can quickly become overwhelming for both you and your animals. Pets thrive on routine and familiarity, so the disruptions of packing, traveling, and settling into a new environment can lead to stress or behavioral issues. That’s why preparing thoughtfully and strategically for your pet’s needs can make all the difference. With the right approach, you can ensure a smooth transition that keeps your furry companions happy, calm, and safe throughout the journey.

This guide will walk you through what to do before, during, and after your move to help your pets adjust. From vet visits and packing tips to travel strategies and new home routines, you’ll find practical advice designed to give your pet a stress-free moving experience.

Start planning for your pet’s move as soon as you know you’re relocating. One of the most important early steps is scheduling a vet visit. This isn’t just for a routine check-up; it’s a chance to make sure your pet is up-to-date on vaccinations and to request any necessary medications or calming treatments for travel. If your pet gets anxious or carsick, your vet can offer specific solutions based on their medical history and needs.

This is also the time to update your pet’s microchip information and tags. Make sure all ID tags include your current phone number and any temporary contact details during the move. If your pet isn’t already microchipped, now is the ideal time to consider it. It’s a simple step that provides peace of mind in case your pet gets lost during the move.

Pets can be startled by sudden changes in their environment. If boxes, packing tape, and suitcases appear overnight, your pet might begin to feel anxious. To reduce their stress, start bringing moving supplies into your home gradually. Let your pet sniff and explore the boxes. Keep packing confined to one area at first so that your pet still has access to familiar spaces.

You can also pack up their items last. Toys, bedding, dishes, and crates should stay in their usual places until moving day if possible. This helps maintain their daily routine and reduces the sense that their home is being disrupted. If you're using a crate or carrier for the move and your pet isn’t used to it, start crate training in advance by offering treats and feeding meals inside the crate to build positive associations.

Pets, especially dogs and cats, rely heavily on routines. Feeding times, walks, and even nap schedules help them feel secure. As you start packing and preparing for the move, try to keep these daily habits intact. Feed them at the same time each day, walk them along the same route, and continue your usual playtime rituals.

This consistency provides comfort when everything else starts to shift. If you’re hiring movers or expecting visitors for packing, consider keeping your pet in a quiet room with familiar items like their bed and favorite toys. It’s a helpful way to shield them from chaos and unfamiliar scents.

Every pet is different, so the right travel plan depends on their species, size, temperament, and medical needs. Small pets, like cats and rabbits, may travel well in carriers inside your car, while dogs might need a harness or a crate secured in the back seat. Make sure carriers are well-ventilated, large enough for your pet to turn around in, and lined with something soft and familiar.

If you’re flying, research airline policies in advance. Some pets can ride in the cabin, but others must be transported in the cargo hold, which requires specific preparations and vet documentation. For longer drives, plan pet-friendly routes with plenty of rest stops. Apps like BringFido can help you locate hotels, parks, and restaurants that welcome pets, so you’re never caught without a place to stop.

Don’t forget to pack a pet travel kit with water, food, a collapsible bowl, waste bags, treats, toys, and any medications your pet might need. Bring along their bedding or an item that smells like home to help them feel more secure on the road.

Moving day can be hectic, loud, and full of unfamiliar people. The last thing you want is for your pet to escape through an open door or get stressed out by the activity. The best solution is to set them up in a quiet, enclosed space — like a bedroom with the door closed — or have a trusted friend or pet sitter watch them for the day.

If boarding your pet at a facility they’re familiar with is an option, consider doing that for the duration of the move. It allows you to focus on logistics without worrying about their well-being. Just make sure to book the facility early, as spots fill up quickly during peak moving seasons. Stick to the familiar to keep stress levels low.

Once you arrive at your new place, it’s tempting to let your pet explore every corner immediately, but that can be overwhelming. Instead, introduce them to one room at a time. Set up a “safe zone” with their bed, toys, food, and water in a quiet space where they can relax. Gradually allow them to check out new areas once they seem comfortable.

If you own a cat, keep them indoors for at least a few weeks. Cats are territorial, and allowing them to explore too soon could cause them to try to return to your old home. Supervised leash walks for dogs are a great way to familiarize them with the new neighborhood while providing exercise and mental stimulation.

Watch your pet’s behavior closely. Appetite changes, hiding, or excessive grooming can be signs of stress. Offer extra affection and patience as they adjust, and resist the urge to introduce new routines or people too quickly.

Moving with pets doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With thoughtful preparation, consistency, and a few well-planned strategies, you can make the process smoother for your animal companions.

Your move is a major event, but it can also be the beginning of a fresh, exciting chapter — one where your pet thrives in a new space and continues to enjoy life by your side. By focusing on their emotional and physical needs, you’re setting the stage for a happy and healthy transition.

Reach out to Summerville Partners today to explore your real estate opportunities in Evanston.