Moving with Pets
Cats and dogs are very territorial animals and removing them from their home can be a traumatic experience. Our guide to moving with pets ensures a stress-free move for you and your furry friend.
2 minute read
Before the move
- Have up to date tags made up to go on your pet’s collar so in the unfortunate chance they do go missing, it’ll be easier for them to be returned to you
- If possible, try and make arrangements with a kennel or a friend who can look after your cat or dog on moving day. This is useful if your pet is easily disturbed by new people coming into their home and it will mean one less thing for you to worry about
- Make sure your pet is registered with a new veterinary practise, update their microchip and update any insurance policy you have for them
- Be aware that your pet might suffer with travel sickness just like people do, so speak to your vet about any medication they can provide for this
- Leave the crate that your pet will be travelling in in their favourite room so that they get used to it and go in and out as they please. This will prevent fear during the actual move
Moving day
- Designate an empty room for your pet and shut them in it whilst the removal company are at work. Make sure they have their bed, plenty of food and drink and ensure there is a note on the door so that no one lets them out by accident
- If you have a cat, don’t let him out of the house before the removal men arrive. All the commotion might mean he’ll stay away and you might not be able to get him back in before you need to leave
- Once everything has been removed from your old home, encourage your pet into their crate in the car and make sure they’re comfortable. If you have a dog, make sure he is walked and has used up some energy before the car journey
- Before you start unloading all your belongings, introduce your pet to their new home whilst it’s empty. Feed and water them and allow them to explore their new surroundings
- Take your dog for a walk as soon as you get chance, this will give him chance to mark his new territory and become accustomed with his new surroundings
Post move
- If you have a cat, keep him inside for at least 24 hours and make sure he’s been fed before you let him outside to explore
- Ensure your garden is fully secure and that there aren’t any gaps in the fences that a dog could escape out of
- Try and get straight back into the same routine you had in your previous home and stick to feeding, walks and bed times. If they weren’t allowed upstairs before then try and keep these learnt behaviours in place
