8 Tips for Moving With Pets

Planning on moving across the country with your cat or dog? Here’s a complete guide to moving with pets and keeping them safe the whole way.

As moving day approaches, the stress can pile up as tall as your boxes. Between researching the best movers, coordinating with your new landlord, and buying enough tape and bubble wrap, keeping your checklist in line is a big undertaking. And your four-legged fur babies might sense the stress. 

Pets are creatures of habit. Moving to a new place and interrupting their routine can be as stressful for them as it is for you. But when moving with pets, there are ways to make the transition easier for everyone, like choosing the most comfortable mode of transport for relocating pets and checking in with their vet. 

If you’re moving to a new city, here are eight tips for moving with pets without stressing out your fur baby. 

8 Tips for Moving with a Pet

Here are eight tips for moving with cats, dogs, and other pets — from before you pack to when you settle in. 

1. Check With Your New Landlord

Before signing a new rental agreement, inquire about pet deposits and pet-friendly building amenities to avoid surprises on move-in day. A virtual tour or copy of the floor plan can help you determine if your dog’s breed and the apartment setup are compatible.

2. Gather All Documentation

Pet relocation services, state authorities, and landlords likely require different documentation, including proof of rabies vaccinations and other medical certifications. Gather everything in a single, easy-to-find folder so you’re never scrambling. It’s also a good idea to make copies and upload digital versions just in case.

3. Introduce Moving Supplies

The sight of a suitcase or packing can trigger stress or anxiety in some animals, especially if you travel frequently. Keeping packing supplies around weeks before moving can help acclimate them until boxes feel like another regular household item. 

4. Don’t Change Their Routine

It’s tempting to speed through your packing checklist. But don’t neglect your regular routine. Keeping your pet’s feeding schedules, play times, and walks is a good way to help them adjust during a disruptive packing and moving process. 

5. Keep Them Safe on Moving Day

On moving day, people will be coming in and out and leaving doors open. Sending your pet to a boarder or pet sitter is an easy way to keep them safe. Otherwise, keep them closed off in a quiet part of the house. Make sure everyone knows there are pets in the home so there are no surprises. 

6. Pack All the Essentials

Pack your pet’s belongings last, clearly identifying the box so you can unpack it quickly. If you’re traveling in a car, be sure to have water and food dishes, a comfy bed, and plenty of treats — whatever your pet needs to feel comfortable. Familiar smells (like their favorite blanket or an item of your clothing) can also help them feel a sense of safety, especially if they travel in a crate with a handler. 

7. Check Into Pet-Friendly Hotels

For long-distance hauls, be sure to reserve a room at a pet-friendly hotel or rest site. Although it might be tempting to drive overnight, your pets need to stretch their legs and take a break from the sensory overload. Plus, a pet-friendly hotel means plenty of cuddles before a long day of travel. 

8. Consult With Your Veterinarian

Always consult with a veterinarian beforehand. They can give you valuable tips for moving with pets by airplane, car, or ground shipping, including information about proper feeding and hydration. The vet might also be able to provide medication to lessen your pet’s anxiety. 

How To Move with Pets: 5 Modes of Transport

Planes, trains, and automobiles are a few friendly ways for moving pets. Here’s how to ship a dog, cat, or other pet to their new home:

1. Drive

If you’re wondering how to move long distances with pets, turning your pet’s move into a fun road trip is the best way to prioritize their comfort. Driving your car or renting a vehicle means you can stop whenever you want, whether it’s to take a potty break, stretch their legs, or detour to a dog-friendly park or trail. Plus, a road trip will keep you calm when you don’t have to worry about them being alone in a crate for extended periods. 

2. Bus

Moving cross-country with a pet by bus is a little more complicated than driving or flying. Many bus companies have strict policies about carrying pets on board. Greyhound, the largest bus service provider in the U.S., doesn’t allow any animals on board except for service animals. 

Companies that do allow animals on board likely require you to keep them in a crate or carrier in the bus’s luggage compartment, depending on their size. Check the guidelines beforehand. Get your dog used to riding in a crate first, starting with short rides in your vehicle. On the day of the trip, be sure to arrive early and board your pet’s carrier in the right area to maintain a stress-free environment. 

3. Airplane

Booking air transport is the fastest option for moving animals. But it requires a lot of precaution, especially if your animals aren’t used to air travel. Even if your dog or cat travels on board with you, you have no idea how they’ll react to the noise or turbulence, changes in air pressure, or several hours in a crate. 

If you want to know how to ship a dog to another state by plane in the cargo, here are some tips to ensure their safety and comfort:

• Although you can ship a dog or cat, it’s best to travel on the same flight to resolve any problems quickly. 
• If you don’t have one already, get a collar that can’t get caught on crates.
• Use direct flights to avoid delays or mistakes during transfers.
• Make sure your pet is familiar with their carrier at least a month before flying so they associate their crate with a safe environment.
• While it might be tempting, avoid giving your pet sedatives or tranquilizers, as they increase the chances of respiratory and cardiovascular problems at high altitudes. 

Carefully read all the airline’s guidelines before purchasing a ticket and shipping a dog, cat, or other pet by air. Take note of all necessary certifications and crate requirements so there are no surprises on moving day.

4. Ground Shipping Company

If your new home is within driving distance, find a ground shipping company that specializes in family pet relocation. Companies like TLC Pet Transport, Royal Paws, and Happy Tails Travel all have ground services to ship a dog long distances. Many offer helpful advice about how to ship a dog to another state in the least stressful way possible. Some also have private minivans that don’t require crates and other special accommodations like regular breaks and experienced pet carriers. 

5. Independent Contractor or Friend

Another option for moving cats, dogs, or even hamsters is hiring an independent contractor. Companies like GoShare function similarly to ride-share apps, connecting you to independent movers. Although GoShare doesn’t specialize in pet-moving, you may find drivers open to transporting your fur babies. 

Before signing up, ask for client reviews, appropriate certifications, and the company’s policy on transporting animals. You can also interview a prospective contractor to see if they know how to travel with a dog or have experience moving cats. 

If you’re more comfortable with a trusted friend, hiring someone you and your pet know can ease the anxiety for everyone. 

4 Tips for Adjusting to a New Home

Your new home is a big, strange world for your pets. Here are four tips for moving with pets and helping them adjust to a new environment:

1. Set the scene: Unpack all your pet’s belongings first. Setting up their bed, litter box, and food and drink bowls can help them attach to the new home. If you’re moving with cats, set up a quiet corner to relax before they’re ready to explore their new digs.
2. Rebuild routine: Reintroducing them to their regular feeding times, walk schedule, and playtime can significantly ease their stress. If you have a dog, it’s also a wonderful excuse to take a long walk and explore your new neighborhood together. 
3. Prioritize quality time: Although it’s tempting to explore all the cafes and shops in your new neighborhood, spend time at home with your pets. If you ship your dog or cat with a handler, lots of one-on-one time full of cuddles, treats, and engaging activities rebuilds a sense of security. 
4. Stay at home: Spend extra time at home, even if you’re a digital nomad with a pet that’s used to moving frequently. Your pet will likely feel anxious and express those feelings, possibly destroying furniture, barking excessively, or engaging in other destructive behaviors. Being near their best friend can help them feel safe in the new space. 

Old Dog, New Home

Another way to reduce the stress of moving with pets is working with a company that cares. Landing has fully furnished, pet-friendly apartments in cities all over the U.S. You worry about packing the leash and treats and let Landing take care of the rest. Become a member today.