A Guide to Moving Home With Pets

Pets are an integral part of our families. 60% of households in the UK house (non-aquatic) pets (13.5 million dogs and 12.5 million cats). Whether you’ve got a faithful dog, a cuddly lap cat, or even a talkative parrot, moving home can be just as stressful for them as it is for us. Unable to understand what’s happening, they can find the process of packing up and being moved quite disorientating. And that’s before they have to settle into a new home!

Fortunately, animals are quite resilient, and with proper planning, moving with pets doesn’t have to be a big drama. This blog post explores moving home with pets and outlines some strategies to make it as simple as possible. Follow this guide, and you’ll be snuggling on your sofa in your new living room in no time.

Preparing for the move

How you prepare for moving day will depend on your furry (or feathered) friend’s temperament and personality. For example, if you’ve got a dog that’s relaxed and easy-going, you can probably start packing as you would normally. 

However, even the most relaxed pooches can get stressed out. If your dog or cat likes to stick their nose into everything, it can be a good idea to have them stay with friends or family for a few days while you pack and move everything. This also helps avoid any accidental injuries or mishaps to pets or people. 

If your pet isn’t used to being in their crate or travel carrier, start introducing it to them a few weeks in advance. Put plenty of treats in there, their favourite toy and blanket, and make it a fun experience for them. If possible, take them to their new home before moving day so they can have a sniff around and get familiar with the space.

In either case, creating a moving timeline and schedule with all the tasks needed to move your little companions to their new home can help. For example, in the chaos of moving home with a dog, it’s very easy to forget to feed them or take them for their morning walk. Make a list of everything that will need to be packed and where it will be. If possible, we put all of your pet’s stuff in the same box for easy access.

Remember, you’ll also have to update your pet’s microchip with the new address when you get there. 

 

Moving with pets: what to do on the day

If you can’t find a sitter on moving day, you’ll need to make the process as calm for them as possible. Consider the following strategies to make moving house with a dog, or any animal for that matter, much simpler.

• Maintain their normal routine: feed them, let them out, and take them for a walk at your usual time. Make sure their food bowls are in their usual spot, and there isn’t too much activity going on.
• Keep them in a quiet space: put your furry friends in a quiet, calm place while the removal van is being packed up. Having excited dogs or nervous cats running around while heavy boxes are being moved is not ideal, not to mention they might run off! Make sure they have their favourite blanket, toys and treats with them too. Even better if a family member can sit with or play with them.
• Don’t forget their needs: with so much to do, it’s easy to forget that your pet may need the loo, some fresh water, or something to eat. Set reminders on your phone to check on them regularly.
• Travel separately: when moving home with a dog or other pet, make sure they travel with you in the car rather than in the van surrounded by rattling boxes and furniture. If it’s close, you could even walk them to your new home to burn off some energy and do things on their terms.
• Let them settle first: in your new home, arrange a space for them with their bed, bedding, toys, and some treats so they can settle down. If you can, let them explore the house and have a good sniff before anything is moved in, and keep them in their safe space while it’s all happening. Remember to check on them regularly and give them plenty of love.
• Scent swapping: when moving with a dog, a good trick to help them feel safe is to rub a cloth around their face and then onto various furnishings, corners, and surfaces at their height. This will help them spread their scent around the house and calm them down.

 

Settling into the new home

In your new house, it’s important to keep doors and windows shut. Dogs, and especially cats, may try to find their way ‘home’ so do everything you can to keep them in the house to begin with. Don’t let dogs off the lead in public until they are used to their new surroundings. It’s also a good idea to let your old neighbours know you’re moving in case your pet shows up in your old neighbourhood in the future.

Try to maintain your old routine as much as possible. Feeding and taking them out at the same time, as usual, every day will help keep them calm and get them used to their new home much quicker.

Pets have emotions and feelings, and they can get homesick, stressed and down just like we do. You need to be patient with them in the days and weeks after the move. Accidents might happen due to stress or not knowing how to get to the garden. They might also become withdrawn and depressed, so it’s important to let them do everything at their own pace, as they will eventually settle. 

At Zapperty, we take the hassle out of selling your home, speeding up the process for both you and your pet. We will make a cash offer on any home within seven days, simply contact us to find out more. In the meantime, head to the Zapperty Blog for home handy property and moving tips.

 

Local Veterinary Services

Moving is overwhelming, and in the chaos of unpacking, decorating, and settling in, it’s easy to forget one crucial step—finding and registering with a local vet. Your pet’s health and well-being depend on it, and the sooner you do it, the better.

Why Finding a Local Vet Should Be a Priority

Imagine your pet getting sick just days after moving—where would you take them? Emergencies happen when you least expect them, and having a trusted veterinary clinic already in place can be a lifesaver. Whether you have an adventurous cat prone to mischief or a senior dog needing regular check-ups, securing a vet early ensures your pet gets the best care when they need it most.

How to Find and Register With a Vet

• Start with Recommendations – Ask new neighbours, local pet owners, or even check online reviews to find highly rated veterinary services in your area. Websites like the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons can help locate accredited professionals.
• Look for Specialist Care – Does your pet have a condition requiring specialised treatment? Ensure the vet you choose can cater to their needs.
• Visit the Clinic – Before registering, visit the vet’s office. Observe how they interact with pets and ask about their services, emergency protocols, and appointment availability.
• Complete Registration – Once you find the right vet, provide them with your pet’s medical history, vaccination records, and any special care requirements.

Check out this guide to speed up your move and ensure a smoother transition for your pet.

Updating Your Pet’s Identification and Microchip Details

Pets are creatures of habit, and a new home can feel confusing and overwhelming. They may try to find their way back to their old home, increasing the risk of them getting lost. This is why updating their microchip details and identification is vital.

• Contact the Animal Registry – Ensure your pet’s microchip details reflect your new address and contact information.
• Check Their Collar and Tag – A dog’s collar should have an updated identification tag with your current phone number. If your cat wears a collar, double-check that it’s secure and up-to-date.
• Notify Your Pet Insurance Company – If your pet is insured, update your address with your pet insurance provider to avoid complications if you need to make a claim.
• Transfer Medical Records – Request your pet’s medical records from your previous vet and hand them over to your new one. This will ensure continuity in healthcare.

 

Pet Safety and Familiarisation: Helping Your Pet Feel at Home

Creating a Secure Outdoor Space

The last thing you want is for your pet to escape in an unfamiliar neighbourhood. Taking a few steps to secure your outdoor area can prevent unnecessary stress and potential dangers.

• Inspect Fences and Gates – Ensure there are no gaps or weak spots your pet can squeeze through. A secure, escape-proof enclosure provides peace of mind.
• Check for Poisonous Plants – Some common garden plants can be toxic to pets. Research and remove any that could pose a threat.
• Set Up a Safe Play Area – Whether it’s a catio for your feline friend or a designated yard space for your pup, having a controlled environment can help them adjust safely.

Using Familiar Scents and Comfort Items

New environments can be intimidating, but familiar scents help ease the transition. Have you ever noticed how your pet sniffs around obsessively when in a new place? That’s their way of trying to feel at home.

• Bring Their Favourite Blanket or Bed – Placing items that carry your pet’s scent in their new space can provide a sense of security.
• Use a Scent Transfer Technique – Rubbing a cloth on their face and then placing it on furniture, corners, and other surfaces in your home can help them mark the new space as their own.

Preventing Escape During the Move and Settling Period

Pets can be unpredictable, and a change in environment might cause them to bolt at the first opportunity. Here’s how to prevent that from happening:

• Supervise Curious Pets – Keep a close eye on them, especially in the first few days. Cats, in particular, may attempt to find their way back to their old home.
• Limit Outdoor Time at First – Even if your dog loves their walkies, keep outings short and on a leash until they get used to the area.
• Establish a New Walkies Route – Introduce your pet to new paths gradually, ensuring they become familiar with their surroundings while remaining safely under your supervision.

For more tips on settling in quickly, read this guide.

 

FAQs

 Do dogs find moving house stressful?
Yes, dogs can experience stress when moving due to changes in their routine and unfamiliar surroundings. Keeping their routine consistent and providing familiar items can help ease their anxiety.

 How long does it take for a dog to get used to a new house?
It varies depending on the dog’s personality, but most dogs take a few weeks to adjust. Providing a safe space, maintaining routines, and using positive reinforcement can speed up the process.

 How to stop a cat from running away when you move?
Keep your cat indoors for at least a few weeks before gradually introducing them to the outside. Ensure their microchip details and identification tag are updated in case they do escape.

What is the easiest house pet to have?
Small pets like guinea pigs, hamsters, and fish tend to be lower maintenance than dogs or cats. However, every pet requires care and attention to thrive.