Moving to a new home is exciting, but between packing boxes, organizing furniture, and coordinating moving day, it can be stressful. If you have pets, another important consideration is helping your furry friends feel comfortable during the transition.
Dogs, cats, and other pets thrive on familiar routines, so sudden changes to their environment can leave them feeling anxious or confused. The good news is that with a little planning and the right storage solutions, you can make moving easier for everyone.
Plan Your Pet’s Move a Few Weeks Ahead
Confirm pet rules at your new building
If you’re moving into an apartment or rental property, check the pet policies before signing your lease. Some buildings restrict pet size, breed, or the number of animals. You may also need to provide vaccination records or additional paperwork.
Book a vet visit and update ID tags
Schedule a veterinary appointment to make sure your pet’s vaccinations are current and discuss any concerns about traveling. Update their ID tags and microchip registration with your new contact information so they can be identified if they get lost.
Get Your Pet Used to the Carrier and the Car
If your pet isn’t accustomed to traveling, moving day shouldn’t be their first experience. Leave their carrier open at home with familiar blankets or treats inside so they can explore it and get comfortable. For pets who get nervous in the car, try taking a few short practice drives before moving day. Gradually introducing these experiences can help reduce anxiety when it’s time for the real trip.
Use Self Storage to Keep Your Home Calm While You Pack
Packing can quickly turn a familiar home into a maze of boxes and furniture. A self-storage unit lets you clear space gradually instead of overwhelming your pet with sudden changes.
Bring in boxes slowly and pack pet items last
Start packing rooms your pet rarely uses, introducing boxes gradually. Keep their bed, toys, food bowls, and favorite blankets in their usual spots until the last possible moment. Maintaining familiar surroundings helps your pet feel more secure as your home changes.
Move furniture and boxes out before moving day
Consider moving nonessential furniture, seasonal decorations, and packed boxes into self-storage ahead of time. This creates more room for moving day activities while reducing clutter and potential hazards. With fewer obstacles around, you’ll have an easier time keeping your pet away from packing areas.
What to Keep with You and What Can Go in Storage
Pack a pet essentials bag for the car
Prepare a separate bag with everything your pet might need during the move, including food, water, medications, waste bags, and favorite toys. For cats, include litter and a portable litter box. Keep this bag accessible during the trip rather than loading it into the moving truck.
Pet gear and household items that store well
Extra crates, unused pet beds, seasonal accessories, and bulky household furniture are great candidates for self-storage. Clean and thoroughly dry everything before packing to help prevent odors and moisture buildup.
What not to put in a storage unit
Never leave pets inside a storage unit, even temporarily. Keep food, treats, and other perishables out of storage, as they can attract pests. Keep medications and everyday pet supplies with you.
How to Keep Pets Calm on Moving Day
Moving day can be noisy and unpredictable, with unfamiliar people coming and going. Set up a quiet room away from the activity where your pet can relax with their bed, water, and favorite toys.
Place a sign on the door reminding movers to keep it closed. If your pet is particularly anxious, consider arranging for a trusted friend, family member, or pet sitter to care for them until the moving truck is loaded.
Traveling with Dogs, Cats, and Small Pets
Different pets have different travel needs:
- Dogs may benefit from a walk before leaving and scheduled breaks during longer drives.
- Cats generally travel best in secure carriers with familiar bedding.
- Small animals, such as rabbits or guinea pigs, should travel in appropriate ventilated carriers with careful attention to temperature and stress.
Never leave animals unattended in parked vehicles, especially during extreme temperatures.
Pet-Proof and Settle into Your New Home
Start with one room
Create a comfortable space with familiar bedding, toys, food, and water. Let your pet explore gradually rather than introduce them to the entire home at once.
Give Dogs and Cats Time Before Going Outside
Before allowing pets outside, check fences, gates, and potential escape routes. Keep cats indoors while they adjust and introduce dogs to their new neighborhood through supervised walks.
Make Your Pet’s Move Easier with Secure Self Storage
Moving with pets doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By preparing early, maintaining familiar routines, and clearing unnecessary clutter, you can make the transition smoother for your entire household.
At Secure Self Storage, we make moving easier with clean, secure storage units in a variety of sizes. Whether you need temporary space for furniture or a climate-controlled unit for extra belongings, we’re here to help.
Find a Secure Self Storage location near you and make more room for a comfortable, stress-free move for you and your pets.