Moving House with Pets: 7 Tips to Keep Your Pet Calm and Stress-Free
Moving house can be stressful for humans, but it can be just as stressful for our pets. A new environment, a new house, and new walking paths can feel confusing for them. Luckily, our furry friends have their owners with them, which is the most important and comforting thing during this time.
Here are 7 helpful tips to keep your pet calm and stress-free during your move.
1. Let your pet visit the new area
If possible, make a few visits to your new neighbourhood before the move. This will help your pet become familiar with the environment. Pets rely heavily on scent and familiarity, so walking around the new area will allow them to get used to the sounds, surroundings, and smells. When moving day arrives, the environment will feel less strange and stressful. You can also use the Move-Mate app to find nearby parks and walking paths close to your new home. This will help you take your dog for walks in the new area and allow them to slowly explore and get comfortable with their new surroundings.
2. Let your pet visit the home before the move
Just like the neighbourhood, it is helpful if your pet can see the new home before the move. This allows them to get familiar with the new smells and surroundings. To avoid overwhelming them, introduce the house slowly and let them explore one room at a time.
3. Pack your pet’s essentials last
Make sure your pet’s belongings are among the last items you pack and the first ones you unpack. Having their bedding, bowls, favourite toys, and the same treats they are used to will help them feel safe and comfortable in their new home.
4. Keep their routine the same
Pets feel safest when their routine stays consistent. Try to keep feeding times, walks, and playtime the same during the moving process and after you move into your new home. Familiar routines help pets feel more secure during times of change.
5. Give them extra attention
Moving can feel overwhelming for pets just as it does for us. Make sure you spend some extra time with them during the process. A cuddle, a walk, or a bit of playtime can reassure them that everything is okay.
6. Prepare a safe space on moving day
Moving day can be chaotic, with people coming in and out of the house. It may help to keep your pet in a quiet room with their bed, toys, food, and water. Having a calm space can make them feel much safer while the move is taking place.
7. Update your pet’s microchip
One of the most important steps is making sure your pet’s microchip and ID tags are updated with your new address and contact information. This ensures that if your pet gets lost, they can be safely returned to you. One of the most important steps is making sure your pet’s microchip and ID tags are updated with your new address and contact information. This ensures that if your pet gets lost, they can be safely returned to you.
PS. Don’t worry, you’ve got this. Your furry friend needs you the most to feel safe and comfortable during this time. The tips above will help make the transition smoother for both of you. Wishing you and your pet all the best in your new chapter together. 🐾🏡
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Quick Checklist: Moving House with Pets 🐾
Visit the new neighbourhood with your pet before moving if possible
Let your pet explore the new home gradually before the move
Pack your pet’s essentials last (bed, toys, bowls, treats, portable water bottle)
Keep feeding, walking, and playtime routines the same
Give your pet extra attention and reassurance during the move
Prepare a quiet, safe space for them on moving day
Update your pet’s microchip and ID tags with the new address
Signs your pet may be feeling stressed during a move 🐾
Moving can be confusing for pets, so it is important to watch for signs that they may be feeling anxious or overwhelmed. Some common signs of stress include:
Excessive barking or meowing
Hiding or avoiding people
Loss of appetite
Pacing or restlessness
Whining or unusual vocalisation
Chewing or scratching furniture more than usual
Accidents in the house (even if they are normally trained)
Excessive grooming or licking
If you notice these behaviours, try to give your pet extra reassurance, maintain their routine, and create a calm environment to help them settle.
Useful Links for Pet Owners When Moving
Pet microchip updates (UK legal requirement)
You can remind readers to update their details through official guidance:
UK Government guidance on updating pet microchip details
Pet welfare advice
For professional advice on keeping pets calm during stressful situations like moving:
RSPCA pet care advice
Dog behaviour and stress guidance
Helpful tips for understanding dog behaviour during big changes:
The Kennel Club advice on dog care and wellbeing
General pet care and welfare information
Veterinary guidance and animal wellbeing resources:
PDSA pet health and behaviour advice
Finding parks and outdoor spaces for dogs
When moving to a new area, it is helpful to know where nearby parks and walking paths are located so your dog can explore and stay active. The free app www.movly.uk includes a feature that helps you discover nearby parks and other useful locations around your new home, making it easier to plan walks and help your dog settle into the new neighbourhood.