Moving is a big change for everyone. But for pets, it can feel even more stressful. From boxes and new scents to unfamiliar sounds and routines, moving can unsettle even the calmest companion.
With the right preparation and support, you can help your pet stay safe and comfortable during the transition into your new home.
If you’re planning a move, schedule a pre-move wellness exam at Maple Grove Pet Hospital to ensure your pet is healthy, up-to-date on vaccinations, and ready for the journey ahead. Call 763-340-0346 or schedule an appointment online today.
Pre-Move Preparation: What to Do Before Moving Day
A smooth move starts well before the boxes are packed. Since pets can sense changes in their environment and your stress, it helps to start early and stay organized.
Gradually introduce moving boxes so your pet can get used to them, and research any new city, state, or country requirements such as licenses, vaccinations, or quarantine rules.
Update your pet’s microchip and ID tags with your new contact information, and schedule a veterinary visit two to three weeks before your move to confirm your pet’s health, update vaccinations, and obtain any required travel documents.
Your Pre-Move Pet Checklist
To make sure you’re fully prepared, use this quick checklist as you plan your move:
Health & Records
- Schedule your pre-move wellness exam with Maple Grove Pet Hospital.
- Confirm that all vaccinations are current.
- Ask for printed or digital copies of your pet’s medical records.
- Request a health certificate or travel documents if moving out of state or abroad.
- Refill prescriptions and stock up on medications your pet may need.
Identification & Safety
- Verify your pet’s microchip is active and linked to your new contact info.
- Update ID tags with your new address and phone number.
- Keep a recent photo of your pet on hand in case they get lost.
Travel Prep
- Decide how your pet will travel and review carrier or crate requirements.
- Introduce your pet to their travel crate early and make it a positive space with treats and bedding.
- Pack a travel kit with food, water, bowls, a leash, waste bags, medication, and a favorite toy.
- If you are driving, plan routes with rest stops for breaks and bathroom time.
Home Transition
- Prepare a quiet, secure space for your pet on moving day to minimize stress.
- Set up one familiar room first in your new home with their bed, food, and toys.
- Maintain regular feeding and play schedules to help them settle in quickly.
Choosing the Right Travel Method for Pets
The best travel plan depends on your destination and your pet’s temperament.
- Car travel: Often ideal for many pets, allowing you to stay with them and control stops. Secure your pet in a crate or harness.
- Air travel: If you plan to fly, check the airline’s pet carrier requirements, size limits, and ventilation standards. Some pets may travel in the cabin while others fly in cargo.
- Professional pet relocation services: For interstate or international moves, these services handle logistics, documentation, and safe transport.
Whether driving or flying, help your pet acclimate to their carrier or travel environment as early as possible. Include familiar blankets or toys, and consider taking short “practice trips” to help reduce anxiety.
Moving Day Best Practices
On the big day, your goal is to keep your pet safe, calm, and out of the chaos. You can achieve this by:
- Creating a quiet space for your pet: Keep them in a secure room or with a trusted friend/family member while movers are loading/unloading.
- Bringing a pet travel kit: Have your travel kit and essentials ready.
- Preventing escapes: Movers often leave doors open, so ensure pets are safely contained.
- Maintaining routines: If possible, stick to your pet’s feeding and walking schedule. Familiarity reduces stress.
Settling Into Your New Home: First 24–48 Hours
Coming home is just the start of the transition. A thoughtful arrival helps your pet adjust.
- Limit the environment initially: Open one room at a time and supervise exploration until your pet is comfortable.
- Maintain routine: Stick to your regular feeding, walking, and bathroom break schedule as you did in your old home.
- Provide comfort items: Bring their familiar bedding, toys, and accessories into the new home immediately.
- Pet-proof & secure: Check fences, gates, escape routes, and noises in the new environment.
- Allow adjustment time: Your pet may need several days (or more) to feel comfortable in the new place, be patient and reassuring.
Special Considerations: Cats, Dogs, & Exotic Pets
Every pet species handles change differently. Tailor your approach for the type of pet you own.
Moving with Dogs
Dogs tend to adapt well to change when their routine and familiar comforts are maintained. Before your move, make sure your dog’s license, microchip, and ID tag are updated with your new contact information.
If you’ll be driving, help your dog adjust to travel by taking short practice rides and bringing along familiar items like their bed or blanket.
During the trip, plan for regular rest stops and bathroom breaks to keep your dog comfortable and calm.
Before you arrive at your new home, take time to research local veterinarians and emergency clinics so you’re prepared in case your pet needs care soon after settling in.
Moving with Cats
Cats are often more sensitive to change and may find moving especially stressful. Keep your cat in a secure carrier during transport and allow them to adjust to the new home gradually.
When you arrive, set up a quiet room with familiar items such as their litter box, scratching post, bedding, and favorite toys. This creates a safe retreat where they can begin exploring at their own pace.
Over the next several days, slowly introduce your cat to new rooms, supervising their exploration until they seem comfortable in the new space.
Moving Exotic or Small Animals
Smaller pets and exotics require extra care during a move due to their specific environmental needs. Keep temperatures consistent and ensure proper ventilation throughout travel.
Use sturdy, species-appropriate transport containers to prevent escapes or injuries, and avoid exposing your pet to drafts or direct sunlight.
For longer trips, monitor their condition closely, provide hydration when possible, and plan for short breaks to minimize stress and fatigue.
Moving Abroad or Across State Lines
If your move takes you across state lines or overseas, it’s important to start early. Requirements vary widely, and gathering the proper documents, such as health certificates, vaccination records, microchip information, and any required import or export permits, can take 6 to 12 weeks, depending on the destination. Many countries also have specific timelines for completing paperwork, so planning ahead helps prevent delays and travel complications.
Some locations have quarantine or inspection procedures for arriving pets, and airlines have their own rules for approved travel crates, safety guidelines, and documentation. Ensuring your pet’s crate meets airline and international standards will help make the trip as smooth and stress-free as possible. If you need support preparing travel forms or scheduling your pet’s pre-travel exam, Maple Grove Pet Hospital is here to help.
Make Moving Easier on Your Pets with Maple Grove Pet Hospital
Our team at Maple Grove Pet Hospital understands how stressful moving can be for both you and your pet.
Whether you need a pre-move wellness exam, guidance on travel, or follow-up care in your new home, we’re committed to personalized service that always prioritizes your pet’s comfort and safety.
Schedule your pre-move wellness exam today at 763-340-0346 or book online with Maple Grove Pet Hospital.