Last Updated on April 10, 2025 by Kari-Ann Ryan
Moving to a new home can be an exciting milestone—but for pets, it often brings stress and anxiety. Dogs, cats, and other household animals thrive on routine and familiarity. The disruption caused by packing, strangers entering the home, and new surroundings can overwhelm even the calmest pets. Whether you’re relocating across Chicagoland or making a long-distance move, follow these 10 expert tips for moving with pets to help ease the transition for your furry companion.
Why Is Moving Stressful for Pets?
Like humans, pets feel secure when their daily routines remain consistent. During a move, the sudden appearance of boxes, noise, and unfamiliar activity can lead to stress symptoms in pets such as:
- Excessive panting
- Pacing or hiding
- Loss of appetite
- Destructive behavior
- Changes in sleep patterns
How to Move with Pets? Expert Tips
To make the move easier on both you and your pet, it helps to plan ahead and think about what they need to stay comfortable. Here are 10 simple, effective tips to help you move with your pets—while keeping them calm, secure, and as stress-free as possible from start to finish.
Start Packing Early to Desensitize Your Pet
Get the pet used to the mess of moving boxes early in the relocation process. Give them an empty box or extra packing paper with which to play. Leave some boxes open so the animal can investigate; within a few days the pet is unlikely to pay them much attention.
Stick to Your Pet’s Routine
Keep feeding times, walks, and play sessions consistent. Pets, especially dogs and cats, are highly sensitive to changes in routine. Sticking to their regular schedule offers a sense of normalcy amidst the chaos.
Keep Pets Entertained During the Move
Walk or play with the pets to keep them happy during the upheaval of moving. Let them burn off their anxious energy. Once tired out, the animal is likely to stay calm. If time is lacking, ask a friend to play with the pet outdoors.
Alternatively, hire a dog walking service to exercise the pet and keep them out of the frantic household. Or play brain games with the animal to stimulate them and prevent boredom and misbehavior. A plus is that a well-behaved pet allows the pet owner to focus on moving tasks.
Create a Safe Space for Your Pet
Boxes, supplies, and clutter create chaos in a typically neat home. The piles of boxes can intrude upon the pet’s space. Prevent pet anxiety by preparing a secluded spot for the animal to retreat to when the moving schedule gets hectic. A small room or closet are ideal places.
Similarly, ensure the pet’s space is ready at the new home. Lay a blanket, bowl of food, or crate in an area away from the commotion of the move. Be sure the animal can see and hear the owner so as not to feel abandoned in a brand-new place.
Schedule a Vet Visit Before Moving
A veterinarian can offer a wealth of advice for destressing pets during a hectic move. While at the vet, ensure the animal’s vaccinations are up to date and regular prescriptions are ordered. Ask the professional for recommendations for vets in the new area.
Be Aware of Pet Laws
Some rentals do not allow pets. Become familiar with the rules and laws of the new home and area before moving in with a beloved animal. Certain cities, for instance, mandate that dogs be on leashes. Update pet tags and their microchip details online.
Keep Pets Safe on Moving Day
Once moving day arrives, doors will be left wide open and unfamiliar people (moving crews) will pop in and out. Protect the animal’s safety and security by keeping them in a closed, quiet room. This tip prevents them from darting outside in attempt to escape the commotion.
Pack a Pet Emergency Bag
Just as homeowners need a separate bag with all the essentials, pets do so, too. Pack a bag with the animal’s favorite toys, food, medications, and water bowl. Stay extra prepared for unexpected cleanups by including a disposable plastic bag and paper towel roll.
Prepare for the Car Ride
The safest place in the vehicle during the drive to the new home is in a crate in the back seat, secured by a seatbelt. Reduce the visual stimulation in animals (especially birds) who are prone to anxiety by placing a blanket over the crate during the ride.
Pet-Proof the New Home
Before your pet enters, inspect the new home for hazards. Secure the doors, windows, and gates. Move any electrical cords, as they can be dangerous to pets. Install covers over the vents and inspect the balcony to ensure the pet cannot squeeze through the railing.
Close the toilet lids to prevent dogs from drinking water that may contain chemicals. Check the backyard for plants that can be poisonous to the pets and remove the growth. Look for any pest control traps that may have been left behind by the previous owner.
Choose Mid-West Moving & Storage for Pet-Friendly Moves
Moving with a pet is a doable task, but one that requires preventing or minimizing the pet’s stress and anxiety. Keep the animal happy by utilizing the abovementioned tips. Ensure your own satisfaction by hiring a trusted moving service, like Mid-West Moving & Storage, for your upcoming relocation.
Your exciting move starts with a discussion with our move counselor, who can provide invaluable advice for preparing your pets and belongings. During the relocation, you are kept up to date via emails and/or phone calls. Our customers appreciate our open lines of communication.
Licensed, bonded, and background-checked movers handle your possessions with care and expertise. We protect the home at both the origin and destination with hardwood floor runners, carpet shields, and door jambs, among other professional moving equipment. Furniture is stretch-wrapped and padded.
Whether you are moving to or from a home, condo, apartment, retirement home, or dorm, Mid-West Moving & Storage is ready to provide you with our well-known quality customer service, efficient moving processes, and budget-friendly moves. We meet all your residential moving needs.
From short- and long-term secure storage options to packing and unpacking services, Mid-West Moving & Storage is the most comprehensive residential mover in Chicagoland. Call our office today to start your upcoming relocation with our well-rated moving services.
