Moving With Pets: Keeping Your Furry Friends Calm and Safe

Moving With Pets requires a special level of planning to ensure your dogs, cats, or birds stay happy during a chaotic day. We understand that animals can become very stressed when they see their familiar environment being packed into brown cardboard boxes. Our team observes that pets often react to the nervous energy of their owners, which can lead to hiding or even running away. Because a move involves open doors and strange people in the house, keeping your pets secure is our top priority. We want to help you create a “safe zone” for your animals so they feel protected while we handle the heavy lifting. By following a few simple steps, you can help your pets adjust to their new home much faster and without any health issues.

Creating a Quiet Safe Room

On the morning of the move, the best thing you can do is place your pets in a quiet room with the door locked. We find that a bathroom or a small bedroom that has already been emptied is the perfect spot for a temporary kennel. You should provide them with their favorite bed, water, and plenty of toys to keep them occupied while the house is busy. Furthermore, you should place a large sign on the door that says “Pets Inside” to warn the moving crew and guests. Consequently, the animals won’t be frightened by the noise of furniture moving or the sight of strangers in their territory. Our team always respects these boundaries to ensure your pets never accidentally slip out through an open front door.

Updating Identification and Medical Records

Before you leave your old neighborhood, you must ensure that your pet’s identification tags and microchip information are completely up to date. We see many cases where pets get lost during a move and their tags still list an old phone number or a disconnected address. Additionally, you should keep a copy of their medical records and a recent photo in your “essentials” box just in case of an emergency. If you are moving to a new part of Calgary, we suggest finding a local veterinarian before you arrive so you know exactly where to go. Furthermore, check the local bylaws in your new community to see if you need to register your pet with the city. Taking these administrative steps provides a vital safety net for your furry family members during the transition.

The Journey to the New Home

While we handle the transport of your furniture, your pets should always travel in a personal vehicle with a family member they trust. We find that the familiar smell of your car and your presence helps keep them calm during the drive across the city. You should use a secure carrier or a pet seatbelt to prevent them from jumping around and causing a distraction for the driver. Moreover, for longer trips, you should plan for regular “potty breaks” and keep a bowl of water handy at all times. If your pet is prone to extreme anxiety or car sickness, you should consult with your vet about mild sedatives or calming sprays. Our team focuses on getting the truck loaded quickly so you can spend more time focusing on your pet’s comfort.

Settling Into the New Neighborhood

Once you arrive at the new house, you should set up a specific room for your pets before you start unpacking the rest of the boxes. We observe that surrounding them with familiar items like their old blankets and food bowls helps them realize they are in a safe place. You should also check the fence in your new backyard for any holes or loose boards before letting a dog out to explore. Furthermore, try to stick to your normal feeding and walking schedule as closely as possible to provide a sense of routine. It may take a few days for your pets to feel completely at home, so give them plenty of extra attention and treats during this time. We are the Best Moving Company in Calgary for making sure every member of your family, including the four-legged ones, has a great moving experience. If you are planning a move with animals, please Contact Us for more pet-friendly tips.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I put my pet in the moving truck?

No, you should never put a pet in the back of a moving truck. It is dark, loud, and the temperature is not controlled. Pets should always travel in your personal car.

How do I stop my cat from hiding?

Give your cat a small, dark space like a carrier with a familiar blanket. Cats feel safer when they are “hidden,” and this prevents them from getting underfoot during the move.

Can moving make my pet sick?

Stress can sometimes cause stomach upset or a loss of appetite in animals. If your pet stops eating for more than twenty-four hours, you should call a veterinarian for advice.

What should go in a pet travel kit?

You should pack a three-day supply of food, water, a leash, waste bags, and any medications they need. Don’t forget their favorite toy to help them feel at home.

How long does it take for a dog to adjust?

Most dogs settle in within a few days if you keep their routine the same. Just be patient and spend extra time walking them so they can learn the smells of the new neighborhood.