Moving is a big event for the entire family, and that includes your furry, feathered, or even finned family members! Whether you have a dog, cat, fish, or small pets, moving can be stressful and confusing for them. Pets thrive on routine and familiarity, so when their environment changes, it can cause anxiety and distress.
At Cross Town Movers of Eugene, Oregon, we’ve helped countless families relocate while keeping their pets’ needs in mind. Our professional movers understand that your pets are an important part of your family, and we want to help make your move as smooth as possible—for both you and your animal companions!
In this guide, we’ll cover expert-approved moving tips for different types of pets, from dogs and cats to fish and small animals.
? Pre-Move Preparation: Getting Your Pet Ready for Moving Day
Before the big day arrives, take these important steps to ensure your pet’s safety and comfort throughout the moving process.
✔ Schedule a Vet Visit
- Update your pet’s vaccinations and records in case of an emergency.
- Get a copy of their health records if you’re moving to a new vet.
- Discuss stress-relief options (such as calming treats or medications) if your pet is prone to anxiety.
✔ Keep Their Routine as Normal as Possible
- Stick to regular feeding times, walks, and playtime leading up to the move.
- Give them extra attention and reassurance to reduce their anxiety.
✔ Pack an Essentials Bag for Your Pet
Just like you pack an overnight bag for yourself, you’ll want a pet travel bag with these must-haves:
✅ Food and treats
✅ Water and travel bowls
✅ Leash, collar, and ID tags
✅ Favorite toys and blanket
✅ Medications (if needed)
✅ Waste bags and litter (for cats)
? Moving Day: Keeping Your Pets Safe and Comfortable
The day of the move can be chaotic, with movers going in and out of your home. Pets may feel anxious or try to escape during all the activity. Here’s how to keep them calm and secure.
✔ Consider Boarding or Having a Pet Sitter
- The best way to reduce pet stress is to keep them away from the commotion.
- Ask a trusted friend or family member to watch them for the day.
- Consider boarding them at a pet daycare until the move is complete.
✔ Create a Safe Space in Your Home
- If boarding isn’t an option, set up a quiet, secure room for your pet during the move.
- Make sure the room has water, food, bedding, and familiar items.
- Let your movers know not to enter the room to prevent your pet from escaping.
✔ Secure Pets Before Transporting Them
- Use a secure pet carrier for cats and small animals.
- Keep dogs on a leash when transitioning them to your new home.
- Transport fish in sealed bags with water from their tank.
? Moving with Dogs: Keeping Them Happy and Calm
Dogs can sense change, and they may get anxious when they see moving boxes or unfamiliar people. Here’s how to help them adjust.
✔ Before the Move
- Make sure your dog’s microchip and ID tags are up to date in case they get lost.
- Take them on short car rides if they aren’t used to traveling.
- Pack their favorite bed, toys, and treats to make the transition smoother.
✔ On Moving Day
- Keep them in a separate room or take them to a friend’s house to reduce stress.
- Maintain a calm tone when speaking to them so they don’t pick up on your stress.
- If traveling long-distance, make frequent stops to allow them to stretch and relieve themselves.
✔ Settling into the New Home
- Walk them around the new neighborhood to explore the sights and smells.
- Set up their bed, toys, and food bowls in a similar layout as the old home.
- Spend extra time playing and bonding to help them feel secure.
? Moving with Cats: Helping Them Adjust to Change
Unlike dogs, cats tend to be territorial and may struggle more with a new environment. They may even try to hide or escape during the move.
✔ Before the Move
- Introduce their carrier by leaving it open in your home with treats inside.
- Use pheromone sprays or calming collars to reduce anxiety.
✔ On Moving Day
- Keep them in a quiet, enclosed space with their litter box and familiar bedding.
- Place them in a secure, well-ventilated carrier during transport.
✔ Settling into the New Home
- Let them explore one room at a time instead of overwhelming them with the entire house.
- Keep their litter box, food, and water in a quiet area.
- Give them plenty of time to adjust before introducing new spaces or people.
? Moving with Fish: Minimizing Stress During Transport
Fish are highly sensitive to changes in their environment, so moving them requires special care.
✔ Transporting Your Fish
- Use sealed plastic bags filled with half tank water and half fresh water.
- Place the bags in a padded, insulated container to protect them from temperature changes.
- Limit travel time to less than 48 hours whenever possible.
✔ Setting Up Their New Tank
- Set up the filter and heater before reintroducing the fish.
- Slowly acclimate them to the new water by adding small amounts every 15 minutes.
- Monitor their health closely in the days after the move.
? Moving with Small Pets (Rabbits, Hamsters, Guinea Pigs, etc.)
Small pets are sensitive to temperature changes and stress, so careful planning is essential.
✔ How to Transport Small Pets
- Use a well-ventilated carrier with soft bedding for comfort.
- Keep them away from loud noises and direct sunlight.
- Pack their favorite food and treats to keep them calm.
✔ Setting Up Their New Home
- Place their cage in a quiet, familiar-smelling area.
- Give them time to adjust before handling them.
- Keep their routine as normal as possible (feeding schedule, playtime, etc.).
? Need Help Moving? Call Cross Town Movers Today!
Moving with pets doesn’t have to be stressful when you plan ahead and take the right precautions. Whether you’re moving locally in Eugene, Oregon, or across the state, Cross Town Movers is here to make your relocation as smooth as possible.
? Call us today at (541) 683-5211 for a FREE moving estimate!
? Visit our website to schedule your move now!
? Cross Town Movers – Moving You (and Your Pets) with Care! ?