Pet Blog > 7 Key Moving Tips for Pet Owners

7 Key Moving Tips for Pet Owners

Have you recently gotten the keys to a brand new home? Maybe you’re already researching moving companies, making a packing list, and donating belongings you no longer need. However, if you’re a pet owner, you might be wondering how to keep your pet calm and comfortable throughout the moving process. Moving with a pet may seem stressful, but with careful planning, you’ll find that your pet will adjust to your new home easily. From hiring a trustworthy pet sitter to finding a new veterinarian and paying down vet bills through CoFund My Pet, these tips will help you get ready to relocate with your pet! 

Packing Your Pet’s Belongings

Packing for a big move can take a while. It’s best to sit down and make a packing plan before you put any of your belongings into boxes. You will probably want to pack any items that your pet will need last. Put together a list with all of the items that your pet will need when you move, and check off each item as you pack it so that you don’t forget anything. Make sure to put labels on any boxes that contain your pet’s items, as you don’t want to lose them while relocating!

If you will be flying or driving to your destination with your pet, you’ll have to keep certain items with you rather than packing them into a moving truck. For instance, you can designate a special box with bowls for your pet’s food and water, a leash or harness, a toy or two, a few treats, and any medications they may need. 

The Road Trip

Chances are, you’ll be taking a road trip to reach your new city. Your pet may already be totally comfortable on long drives, but if you have never taken a road trip with your furry friend before, you’ll need to get ready in advance. Hill’s Pet suggests crate training your pet in the weeks leading up to your trip; if your pet is able to move around in the car, they could interrupt you while driving, which is quite dangerous. You will also want to schedule several stops along the way, as your pet will need to eat, drink water, and take “bathroom breaks.” 

And before you head out on your trip, don’t forget to update your pet’s identification tags with your new address! By the time you arrive, you’ll be so busy that this minor yet important task could easily slip your mind. 

Staying with Loved Ones

What if you know that you need to relocate, but you haven’t secured housing in your new city yet? You’ll have some special considerations when it comes to moving with your pet. If you are moving across state lines, and you’re on a tight budget, you may want to look into staying with loved ones for a few days after arriving if possible. This will help you save money as you look for a place to live and apply for jobs. Just make sure that your hosts are open to accommodating your pet, too! 

Hire a Pet Sitter

You may want to hire a pet sitter for moving day - having an extra set of hands around while you pack up your former residence, or while you unpack at your new home, is invaluable. When looking for a pet sitter, PetFirst recommends asking potential candidates about their previous experience, training, and proof of insurance. You can also ask for references from their past clients; after all, you want to make sure that your pet will be in good hands! Finally, set your budget beforehand and ensure that you hire someone with affordable pricing. Moving is already quite expensive, so you don’t want to overspend on your pet sitter.

Unpacking BoxeS 

You’ve finally arrived at your new home, and you’re ready to unpack! You might be eager to start unpacking your own belongings and setting up the furniture, but first, open any boxes with your pet’s items and set up a space with their belongings. By putting out your pet’s bed and toys, you’ll help them start adjusting to their new environment right away. And they might be tired out after a long day of traveling, so naturally, they’ll probably want to take a nap!

Find a New Veterinarian

Now that you’re in a new city, you’ll need to find a new veterinarian for your pet! It’s best to take care of this early on for peace of mind. You can get in touch with a few different local vets to see who will be the best fit for your pet. 

If you have any remaining veterinary bills from your pet’s previous vet, you might want to consider crowdfunding to take care of them. Your new vet may also be able to recommend a reputable pet insurance company to help you save on pet care costs in the future.  

Establish a Routine

Your pet might feel a little confused and disoriented now that you’re in a new place. The solution? Help them get into a routine as soon as possible. For instance, you’ll want to get into a rhythm of feeding and walking your pet around the same times each day. Even if they still have a lot to learn about their new home, they will feel less anxious if they know what to expect day in and day out. Plus, this will help you create a regular schedule for yourself as well!

When you’re getting ready to move, your to-do list is a mile long, and if you have a pet coming along for the adventure, you’ll have additional responsibilities. But by packing in an organized fashion, asking for help when you need it, and getting your pet into a predictable routine as soon as possible, you can ensure that the process goes smoothly. With these tips, you and your pet will have no trouble getting acquainted with your new home!

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