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Moving House with Pets - How to Settle Them In

Alan Stephenson • December 4, 2023

Ensuring a Paws-itive Transition to a New Home

moving house with pets, settling them into their new surroundings

Moving house can be an exhilarating yet stressful experience, not just for you but also for your furry companions.

Cats and dogs, with their strong attachments to their environments, may find the transition overwhelming.

However, with careful planning and thoughtful strategies, you can ensure a smooth and stress-free relocation for your pets.

Preparing for the Move

Gradual Introductions: Familiarise your pets with moving boxes and crates weeks before the move. Let them explore these items gradually to reduce anxiety on moving day.

Updated Identification: Ensure your pets' collars have updated identification tags with your new address and contact information.

Moving Day Strategies

Safe Space: On moving day, designate a quiet room away from the chaos where your pets can stay. Fill it with familiar bedding, toys, and their favourite items.

Supervised Isolation: Keep pets in crates or carriers, ensuring they are secure and safe during the move. Frequent check-ins and reassurance are essential.

Travel Comfort: During transit, provide comfort by placing familiar items in carriers or crates. Use calming aids recommended by your vet if needed.

Settling into the New Home

Settling cat dog into their new home after moving house

Familiar Setup: Create a safe, familiar space in your new home. Begin with one room, gradually allowing access to other areas to prevent overwhelming them.

Routine Continuity: Maintain your pets' routines as much as possible regarding feeding times, walks, and play. Consistency helps them feel secure.

Exploration Time: Allow pets to explore their new surroundings gradually, providing positive reinforcement and treats to associate the new space with positive experiences.

Preventing Return Attempts

Supervised Outings: Initially, keep dogs on leashes and accompany cats outside to prevent them from attempting to return to their old home.

Updated Boundaries: Install pet-friendly barriers or fences to establish the new boundaries and prevent escape attempts.

Microchip Details: Ensure your pets' microchip details are updated with the new address as an added precaution.

Monitoring and Patience

Observation: Monitor your pets closely for signs of stress or anxiety. Consult a veterinarian if they display prolonged signs of distress.

Patience and Reassurance: Be patient with your pets during the adjustment period. Provide plenty of love, attention, and reassurance to ease their transition.

By implementing these tips and showing patience and understanding, you can help your furry companions settle comfortably into their new home, ensuring a smooth transition and preventing any longing for their old surroundings.

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