MOVING WITH PETS: TIPS FOR DOGS AND CATS

“I'm going too, right?”

Moving with pets

Moving is a big change for people and pets. Some families worry about finding a rental that welcomes animals, while others are concerned about how their pet will adjust to an unfamiliar home.

Your pet depends on you for comfort and security. With patience, a little planning, and familiar routines, you can help make the move less stressful for everyone.

How can I find a pet-friendly rental?

Start looking as early as possible and allow time to compare housing options. When contacting a landlord or property manager, ask about pet policies, fees, and any size or breed restrictions.

It may help to prepare a short “pet résumé” that includes a photo, vaccination information, training history, and references from a previous landlord, veterinarian, trainer, or pet sitter. These details can show that you are a responsible pet owner.

Helpful resources for your search:

You can also contact local real estate agents, neighborhood groups, or humane organizations for recommendations. Before signing a lease, make sure permission for your pet is clearly documented.

Wouldn't my pet be better off at a shelter?

Moving can be difficult, but giving up a pet is also a major change for the animal. A shelter stay means losing familiar people, surroundings, and routines, and a new home is not always immediately available.

Before considering surrender, explore pet-friendly housing, temporary care with someone you trust, and other available community resources. Whenever possible, helping a pet stay with the family they know can be the most reassuring option.

How can I make the move less stressful?

Begin preparing your pet well before moving day. If your dog or cat is uncomfortable in a carrier or car, introduce these experiences gradually and reward calm behavior with treats and praise.

Keep your pet's regular food, medications, favorite bedding, and toys close at hand. For longer trips, plan rest stops and confirm any pet-friendly overnight accommodations in advance. PetsWelcome is one resource for finding hotels that accommodate pets.

Travel safety matters: Secure cats in a suitable carrier and use an appropriate secured carrier or travel restraint for dogs. Never leave a pet unattended in a parked vehicle. If your pet experiences severe travel anxiety or motion sickness, talk to your veterinarian before the trip rather than trying calming products or sedatives on your own.

Moving-day tips for dogs and cats

Every animal adjusts differently. These practical steps can help your pets feel safer as you pack, travel, and settle into your new home.

Before the move: Prepare your pets

Bring out moving boxes gradually so they don't become an overnight surprise. Try to keep walks, mealtimes, and play sessions on their usual schedule.

Help your cat become comfortable with a carrier by leaving it open in a familiar room with soft bedding and treats. Give your dog opportunities to explore packing activity at a comfortable pace. If your dog is sensitive to change, short visits or walks in the new neighborhood may help when practical.

It's moving day: Keep pets safe

Open doors, unfamiliar people, and moving equipment can create opportunities for pets to escape. Arrange for your pet to stay with a trusted friend or in a quiet, securely closed room away from the activity.

If your pet stays in a room at home, provide water, familiar bedding, and a litter box for cats. Post a clear sign on the door asking movers to keep it closed. Transport pets securely once the busiest activity is over.

Planning for a long-distance move

Check travel and destination requirements with your veterinarian well in advance, especially if you're crossing state or national borders. Gather medical records, vaccine information, and enough of your pet's regular food and medication for the journey.

Update ID tags and microchip contact details before leaving. Keep a leash, water, bowls, waste bags, cleaning supplies, and a recent photo of your pet readily available.

Welcoming your cat to the new house

Start your cat in one quiet room with food, water, a litter box, bedding, and a familiar hiding place. Check that windows, doors, vents, and other possible escape routes are secure.

Allow your cat to explore additional rooms gradually, at their own pace. Some cats hide or eat less for a short time while adjusting. Maintain familiar routines, offer reassurance without forcing interaction, and contact your veterinarian if changes in eating, drinking, or behavior are concerning or persistent.

Keep your cat indoors and secure during the transition. Even cats who previously spent time outside may become disoriented in unfamiliar surroundings.

Helping your dog adjust to a new home

Introduce your dog to the new home calmly. A leash can help you guide an initial walk-through and keep your dog safe while exploring unfamiliar rooms and the yard.

Check fences and gates before allowing outdoor access, and supervise your dog outside until you're confident the area is secure. Return to familiar feeding, walking, and bedtime routines as quickly as you can.

If possible, spend some extra time with your dog during the first few days. Practice short, comfortable absences to help them adjust to being alone in the new space.

Veterinary advice for moving with pets

Before a long trip, ask your veterinarian whether your pet needs a health examination, updated preventive care, or travel documentation. If travel anxiety or motion sickness is a concern, your veterinarian can recommend safe options for your pet's individual needs.

After the move, locate a veterinarian and an emergency animal hospital near your new home so you know where to go if your pet needs help.