Moving house can be a stressful experience for everyone, and that includes pets. Cats and dogs in particular thrive on routine and familiarity, so the chaos of moving can leave them feeling anxious and unsettled. But with a little preparation and care, you can make the transition much smoother for your animals – and for yourself.
Here are some practical tips to help your furry friends cope with the big move.
How to prepare to move house with pets
Book expert removals
It’s an especially great idea to engage a removal company if pets are involved. That way, you can leave the actual packing and moving to the experts, which will free you up to spend more time with your pet, making sure they are happy and relaxed.
Update tags and microchips
Before the move, ensure your pet’s ID tags and microchip details are up to date with your new address and phone number. You could do this once you’ve moved in, but it’s a good idea to get it sorted in advance, just in case your pet gets lost during the move.
Get them familiar with their carrier, crate or car
If your pet isn’t used to a carrier or crate, or travelling in the car, now is a good time to introduce them to it. Make it a positive space by adding their favourite blanket or toy and allowing them to explore at their own pace.
On moving day
If you’ve booked expert removals services, moving day should run smoothly. But it can still be busy and confusing for pets, who don’t understand what’s going on. Consider whether your animals can be looked after by a trusted friend or family member. This will spare them the stress of moving day itself and allow you to introduce them to their new home in your own time. If that’s not an option, here’s how to keep them as safe and calm as possible.
Set them up in a quiet space
On the day of the move, try to place your pet in a quiet room with the door shut, and let your removals team know they’re in there. This will keep them away from the hub of the commotion and prevent any escape attempts as doors are opened and closed.
Keep essentials handy
Make sure you have a bag ready for moving day with your pet’s food, water, bowls, any medications and a few familiar toys. Keep this separate from the rest of the items that your removals team will move so they’re always easily accessible.
Travel them safely
When it’s time to transport your pets to the new home, make sure they’re secured in a suitable carrier or car harness. Take regular breaks if you’re driving long distances, and ensure they have access to water.
Adjusting to the new home
Once you’ve arrived, helping your pet settle in is just as important as packing and moving them safely. Here’s how to make the new environment feel comfortable and safe for them.
Create a safe space
Set up an area with your pet’s familiar things, like their bed, toys and bowls, before letting them explore the rest of the house. This creates a small, familiar area where they can retreat if they feel overwhelmed.
Maintain your usual routine
Try to stick to their usual feeding and walking schedule as much as possible. Routine helps create a sense of security, helping animals adjust more quickly.
Be patient
It can take some time for animals to feel fully comfortable in a new home. Be patient, offer plenty of comfort and reassurance, and give them the time they need to adapt.
To work with a removal company that’ll help make the move easier for both you and your pets, contact Spire Removals today.
