dog moving boxes

Table of Contents

Key Points

Moving to a new home can be exciting, but when you have pets, the process requires extra planning and care. Pets rely on routines, which become disrupted during a relocation, and most animals are susceptible to loud noises common on moving day. The upheaval can trigger stress and even impact your pet’s health, according to the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine.1

Fortunately, there are a number of things you can do to lessen or eliminate these negative impacts. Below are some moving tips that will help you navigate the process, ensuring your pets feel safe and comfortable every step of the way. Keep reading to learn more.

Why Moving with Pets Requires Special Attention

Pets are creatures of habit, and changes in their environment can cause stress or anxiety. Whether you are hiring local movers in Greenville, SC, or handling the move yourself, it is essential to prioritize their well-being during this transition.

This includes maintaining routines and preparing them for travel as best as possible. It also means taking some basic steps to create a welcoming space in your new home or apartment.

Pre-Move Preparation

Preparation is key to ensure the relocation with your pets goes as smoothly as possible. There are a few main tasks you should prioritize to make this happen.

1. Contact Your Veterinarian

Before moving day, schedule a visit with your vet to make sure your pet is healthy and up-to-date on vaccinations. If you are moving a long distance, ask for a copy of their medical records and recommendations for veterinarians near your new home. This is especially important if you are relocating to another state where pet regulations might differ.

2. Pack an Emergency Pet Kit

Create a moving kit that has essentials for your pet. Examples include:

  • Food and water bowls
  • Treats
  • Medications
  • Toys
  • Bedding
  • Leashes

These items will help keep your pet comfortable during the move and ensure you have everything they need readily available when you arrive at your new home.

3. Familiarize Your Pet with Packing Supplies

Pets can become anxious when they see boxes piling up. Gradually introduce packing supplies to your home so they do not associate them with negative experiences. Gradually packing as far ahead of time as possible can also help ease the transition for them.

Moving Day Tips

There are also a few basic things you can do on moving day to help things go well for your pet, including keeping them safe.

1. Secure Your Pet During the Move

On moving day, ensure your pet is safely confined to a quiet room or crate while movers handle your belongings. This prevents them from escaping or getting injured amidst the chaos. Be sure to alert professional movers of your pet’s location, so that they do not inadvertently let the pet escape or unnecessarily disturb them.

2. Transport Your Pet Safely

Take your pet in your own vehicle, rather than sending them with movers or shipping services. Cats and small dogs should be placed in carriers secured with seatbelts, while larger dogs can ride comfortably in kennels in the back seat or trunk space (if appropriate).

3. Maintain Their Routine

Stick to their feeding and walking schedule as much as possible during the move. Maintaining routines helps reduce anxiety and keeps them calm throughout the transition process.

Settling Into Your New Home

Finally, follow the steps below to help your pet transition to their new home.dog new home

1. Pet-Proof Your New Space

Before letting your pet explore their new home and yard, inspect it for hazards, like exposed wires, sharp objects, or toxic plants. Ensure fences are secure if you have outdoor pets.

2. Create a Comfortable Environment

Set up a designated area for your pet with familiar items like their bed, toys, or blankets to help them adjust quickly to their new surroundings. Initially keep them confined to one room—or a set of rooms—before allowing them to explore other areas of the house.

3. Introduce Them Gradually

Give your pets time to acclimate by introducing them slowly to different parts of the house and outdoor spaces. Take note of any changes in behavior that might indicate stress or discomfort.

Special Considerations for Different Pets

While the information above applies to almost all animals, there are a few additional considerations for specific kinds of pets, including dogs, cats, and small animals.

Dogs

Dogs are highly social animals that thrive on routine and interaction.2 Dog stress can be triggered by even modest changes in schedule or how you relate to them. Therefore:

  • Walk them around the new neighborhood to familiarize them with sights and smells.
  • Ensure outdoor spaces are secure before letting them roam freely.
  • As best as possible, stick to their regular feeding schedule even during packing, moving, and unpacking.

Cats

Cats are more sensitive to environmental changes than other animals. For this reason, consider the following when dealing with cats and moving:

  • Keep them indoors initially until they have fully adjusted.
  • Provide hiding spots like cardboard boxes or covered beds for comfort.
  • Use calming sprays or diffusers if they seem particularly stressed.

Small Animals (Rabbits, Hamsters, etc.)

Small pets require extra care during transportation. Make sure to:

  • Ensure their cages are secure and well-ventilated.
  • Avoid exposing them to extreme temperatures during travel.
  • If you are transporting them in a separate container, set up their habitat immediately upon arrival.

The Role of Professional Movers

Hiring experienced movers can make all the difference when moving with pets. Professionals will understand how stressful relocation can be and offer tailored services that minimize disruptions for both humans and animals alike.

In general, look for services that will prioritize moving you as efficiently as possible without sacrificing the safety of your belongings, including your pets. You also might consider comprehensive services that offer packing assistance or furniture disassembly and reassembly, which can minimize disruptions for your pet (and can make things less stressful for yourself as well).

Learn More About Moving With Pets

Moving with pets requires careful planning and patience, but it does not have to be overwhelming. By following the tips discussed above and working with trusted local movers in Greenville SC, you can ensure a smooth relocation experience for both you and your beloved animals.

Smith Dray Line is a full-service moving company serving customers moving to or from Greenville, Charleston, Columbia, Asheville, or Charlotte areas. Since our founding in 1911, we have prided ourselves on exemplary customer service and satisfaction. Reach out to us today for a free quote or to discuss strategies for making the move seamless for you and your pet.

References

  1. Sarah Boudreau, “Is Your Pet Stressed?” Virginia Tech News, retrieved on April 1, 2025, from: https://news.vt.edu/articles/2024/07/vetmed-pet-stress-management.html.
  2. Clive D L Wynne, “The Indispensable Dog,” Frontiers In Psychology, July 2021, https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8378212/.