Moving with Pets: Containing the Chaos

chris.ha • March 4, 2020

Dog on Welcome Mat

We all know how pets can be. Whether your fur friend is feline or canine, we can all relate to the stress it brings! Not only are you stressing over planning the move, getting everything packed, being in on time, getting utilities turned on, and more, but your family pets are also stressing over not knowing where they’re going, all of their stuff is being removed, new environments, etc.

With experience in moving with pets, we’ve decided to put together a little guide to make it much easier for you to relocate with your pets and containing the chaos!

Preparation

Like anyone or anything, your dog is going to need a little bit of prep work. You may have noticed that when you’re packing for a trip, your pets will get a bit nervous or anxious when they see the suitcase come out and things put inside of it. Now how do you think they will feel if the WHOLE HOUSE is being packed up?! Some experts suggest that you should setup boxes and suitcases ahead of time to allow your dog time to cope with what is going on.

Start training them now. If you’re moving somewhere that they may have a different set of rules or different schedule, you’ll want to get them started on recognizing and abiding by these rules and schedules. For example, if they won’t have doggy door access, you’ll want to get them on a bathroom schedule for when you’re available to let them out at all times. Another good idea, is to get them used to the new place. In most cases you cannot put your dog in the new home until closing day, but you can take them on walks around the new neighborhood, simulating new noises, meeting new people, etc. You’re going to want to prep them for travel as well, most dogs won’t want to be forced into a crate or bag, so we suggest that you prepare your dog to be put into a crate and travel in a car.

Once you’re in your new home, you are going to want to do a few things. You’re going to want to check with the county or city and see what permits or licenses you may need or if they have breed restrictions/laws. After you’ve done those things, finding a new vet is priority! Look through the reviews on local veterinarian offices or ask for recommendations on social media. It’s recommended to also microchip your dog and/or get them a collar with a tag that states your name and phone number!

Moving Day

On moving day, things can get rough if you’re not prepared. Make sure to pack your dogs essentials, especially if you’ve got a long move. Pack things like their favorite toys, water, food, treats, bedding, etc. Always make sure they have quality ventilation in the crate or bag you put them in for the ride, maybe even include a bone or toy to keep them occupied. If you’re dog frequently needs to urinate or has a lot of energy, map out your route and see where all of the possible rest stops and doggy parks are. This will make moving with pets much easier on you and your pup.

The New Home

When you finally get to the new place, you will run into issues when moving with pets. One of the biggest issues with a move is the animal getting used to the new place. Being in a place that they’ve never been can cause them to act out, not sleep, be very anxious, and sometimes even be aggressive. The best thing to do according to experts is to not clean the house immediately, because the smell of the old home will travel with your belongings, allowing your dog a sense of peace and familiarity. It’s helpful to setup your home as close to the old one as possible so the dog recognizes the home as it’s own.

Try to dog-proof all areas of the home that you don’t want the dog to be allowed in with gates, fences (outdoors), leashes, etc. Leashes can be used very wisely for guiding your pets around the home or outdoors where they should and should not go. Your dog will need time to adjust, and remember that they can hear much better than humans can. If they’ve never heard the noises of a busy city or kids at the playground, they may react negatively to these new experiences. Try to take them around the neighborhood, meet the neighbors, show them new amenities such as a pool or tennis courts. More importantly, make this entire process fun for them!! Play with them, give them your attention, reinforce positive behavior, and allow them to adapt to their new environment. It wont be an easy process but it is one that needs diligence.

Conclusion

At the end of the day, you’re moving whether your dog likes it or not. All they need is assistance in getting used to these new things so they don’t get scared or react negatively to your situation. As long as you follow these steps in some way or another, your dog will likely be fine with the move and adapt fairly quickly. If you have any questions, you can always ask your vet if they have any recommendations for you, considering they know your dog better than almost anyone but you!

Written By:

Brown Home Group @ Keller Williams Advantage II Realty

Blaine Wyker

Sources:

https://www.rover.com/blog/moving-with-your-dog-how-to-help-pets-adjust-new-home/

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A No-Nonsense Guide to a Hassle-Free Job Relocation

February 17, 2025

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