Moving With Pets: How To Keep Your Furry Friends Calm And Safe

Moving is a big life event filled with excitement, stress, and a long to-do list. While you may be focused on packing boxes, hiring movers, and setting up your new home, it’s important not to forget about your pets. Animals are sensitive to change, and a move—whether across town or across the country—can be confusing, unsettling, and even scary for them.

Pets thrive on routine and familiarity. So when everything they know starts to shift, they can become anxious or act out. That’s why it’s essential to plan ahead, make thoughtful accommodations, and create a transition plan that keeps your furry companions calm, safe, and comfortable throughout the moving process.

Here are some helpful tips for making your next move easier on your pets, from packing to settling in.

Start Preparing Early

Just like humans, pets pick up on environmental changes. Boxes piling up, furniture moving around, and changes in your routine can cause stress for your animals. Starting early gives you time to prepare your pet gradually, which can reduce anxiety and make the transition smoother.

Ways To Prepare Early:

• Bring moving boxes into the house a few weeks in advance so your pet gets used to them.
  
  

• Stick to your pet’s normal routine (feeding, walking, playtime) as much as possible during the lead-up to the move.
  
  

• Take short drives with your pet if they are not used to car travel to help them adjust to being in a carrier or vehicle.
  
  

If you’re hiring a professional moving service like Coastal Moving Services, LLC, let them know you have pets. Some moving teams can offer advice or help accommodate your animals during the move.

Pack A Pet Essentials Bag

On moving day, your pet’s familiar environment will be disrupted, and access to their belongings may be limited. Having a dedicated bag or box of pet essentials will help you keep your furry friend comfortable and cared for during the transition.

What To Include In A Pet Essentials Bag:

• Food and water bowls
  
  

• A supply of food and treats
  
  

• Leash, harness, and waste bags
  
  

• Medication (if needed)
  
  

• Favorite toys and comfort items
  
  

• A blanket or bed that smells like home
  
  

• Health records and vaccination information
  
  

• A photo of your pet (in case they get lost)
  
  

Having these items close at hand makes it easier to respond to your pet’s needs during the busy moving process.

Keep Pets In A Safe Space During The Move

On moving day, doors are opening and closing, people are coming in and out, and there’s a lot of commotion. For pets, this environment can be overwhelming—and even dangerous.

The best option is to keep your pet in a quiet, enclosed space away from the chaos.

Safe Pet Locations On Moving Day:

• A closed room with their crate, food, and water
  
  

• A pet boarding facility for the day
  
  

• A trusted friend or family member’s home
  
  

• In their secured crate in your vehicle, if temperature and weather permit
  
  

Clearly label the room or crate with a note for movers or helpers so they know not to disturb your pet’s space.

If you're using a moving company such as Coastal Moving Services, LLC, be sure to coordinate your pet’s needs with them ahead of time. A good moving service will help work around your pet’s safe area during loading and unloading.

Traveling With Your Pet

Whether your move is a few miles away or across state lines, safe travel is critical. Each type of pet has different needs, so it’s important to plan for your specific situation.

For Dogs And Cats:

• Use a sturdy carrier or crate that is well-ventilated and large enough for them to turn around.
  
  

• Line the crate with absorbent material and bring water and food for long trips.
  
  

• Never let pets roam freely in the car—it’s unsafe and can be distracting for the driver.
  
  

• Stop for breaks on long drives to let your dog stretch and go to the bathroom.
  
  

For Small Pets And Birds:

• Keep cages or carriers covered with a light blanket to reduce visual stress.
  
  

• Ensure they are securely fastened in your vehicle.
  
  

• Avoid temperature extremes; keep the car at a comfortable temperature.
  
  

For Exotic Pets And Fish:

• Research specific guidelines based on your pet species.
  
  

• For fish, use sealed plastic bags filled with water from the tank, stored in a cooler or box for stability.
  
  

Talk to your vet about safe travel and whether your pet may benefit from anti-anxiety medication for the journey.

Settling Into The New Home

Once you arrive, your pet may be hesitant or anxious in the new environment. The best way to help them adjust is to create a sense of familiarity and routine right away.

Tips For Helping Pets Settle In:

• Set up their bed, crate, toys, and food bowls in a quiet area as soon as possible.
  
  

• Keep them confined to one room initially so they aren’t overwhelmed.
  
  

• Gradually introduce them to the rest of the home.
  
  

• Stick to the same feeding and walking schedule they had before the move.
  
  

• Spend time with your pet to reassure them that everything is okay.
  
  

With time and consistency, most pets will adapt to their new home in just a few days or weeks. Be patient and give them the attention they need to feel secure.

Update Identification And Pet Records

After the move, update your pet’s microchip, ID tags, and vet records with your new address and contact information.

This is especially important in case your pet gets lost in a new, unfamiliar neighborhood.

Also, research and register with a local vet clinic in your new area. Having an established relationship will be helpful if any emergencies come up.

Final Thoughts: Moving Pets With Confidence

Moving with pets requires extra planning, but it’s worth the effort to ensure their comfort and safety. By preparing early, packing the right supplies, and maintaining a routine, you can make the transition easier for both you and your furry companions.

Remember, pets depend on us to provide stability and care—especially during big life changes. With a little extra thought and attention, your pet can feel at home just as quickly as you do.

Professional moving companies like Coastal Moving Services, LLC understand that pets are part of the family. When you work with the right team, they can help you coordinate a move that works for everyone, paws and all.

By keeping your pets’ needs top of mind throughout the process, you can look forward to a fresh start in your new home—together.