Moving to a new home is a big milestone, but when you have pets, it can feel like an even greater challenge. Pets are creatures of habit, and a change in their surroundings can lead to stress and confusion. The good news? With the right preparation, you can make the transition smooth and as stress-free as possible for your furry (or feathered) friends.

Let’s explore how to move house with pets without a hitch, including how self-storage can play a surprising role in simplifying the process.

Preparing Your Pet Before the Move

Moving is a process, not a single-day event, and your pet’s experience should be part of the plan from the start. Begin by creating a familiar and secure environment amidst the growing chaos. Ensure your pet has a quiet space in your current home where they can retreat. This could be a spare room or a corner of a room with their bed, toys, and food bowls. Having a dedicated area for them provides a sense of normality and calm, which will help your pet remain relaxed as you pack and organise.

In the weeks leading up to the move, let your pet get used to the new sights and smells associated with the moving process. Boxes, tape, and packing supplies can seem threatening to animals, so introducing them gradually and letting pets explore these materials can help reduce anxiety.

If your pet will be travelling in a carrier, spend time helping them feel at ease with their new environment. Leave it open in their space, line it with a familiar blanket, and encourage them to explore it on their own terms. The aim is to make the carrier a safe haven, not a source of stress.

Packing Your Home with Pets in Mind

Packing is an inevitable part of moving, but it doesn’t have to disrupt your pet’s routine completely. Keep their feeding, walking, and playtimes as consistent as possible. Familiar patterns are a source of comfort and can help them feel secure despite the changes happening around them.

When packing your pet’s items, resist the urge to box them up early. Their bed, toys, and other essentials should be among the last items packed. Having their familiar belongings close by will be a constant reminder of home, even in the middle of the transition.

It’s also a good idea to prepare a "pet essentials bag" for moving day. Include food, water, treats, favourite toys, and any other comfort items to help them feel safe and stress-free. This ensures you’ll have everything your pet needs within arm’s reach, whether the journey is short or long.

Managing Moving Day with Pets (the stress-free way)

When it comes to moving day, this can be overwhelming for everyone, pets included. To keep your pet safe and calm, consider confining them to one room or arranging for them to stay with a trusted friend or family member for the day. This helps prevent them from becoming anxious or accidentally escaping during the hustle and bustle of a house move.

When it’s time to transport your pet, ensure they are secure in their carrier or harness. For cats, small dogs, and smaller animals, a travel carrier is essential. If your journey is lengthy, plan for regular breaks to give your pet a chance to stretch, hydrate, and use the bathroom. For larger dogs, make sure the vehicle is set up with a comfortable area where they can safely rest.

If your pet struggles with travel anxiety, consider using calming aids like pheromone sprays or diffusers. These can be applied to carriers or the car itself to create a soothing atmosphere.

Settling Your Pet into the New Home

Arriving at your new home is an exciting moment, but it can also be daunting for pets. The unfamiliar smells and spaces may initially confuse or overwhelm them. To ease the transition, start by setting up a familiar area for your pet in a quiet room. Place their bed, food bowls, and toys there, so they immediately have a space that feels like home.

Allow your pet to explore the house at their own pace, keeping an eye on them as they investigate. Gradual introductions to each room help them feel more confident and less overwhelmed by the new surroundings. For cats and smaller animals, it’s best to keep them in one room initially, expanding their space as they grow more comfortable.

Maintaining your pet’s routine is key during this time. Feed them at the same times as before, stick to regular walk schedules, and make time for play. The consistency will provide reassurance as they adjust.

How Self-Storage Can Help During the Move

Moving home is the perfect time to evaluate how much you’re bringing to your new home. Decluttering can significantly reduce stress—not just for you, but for your pets, who may become anxious when surrounded by clutter and chaos. This is where self storage comes in handy.

By storing non-essential items in a self-storage unit, you can create a calmer environment for your pet during the move. Furniture, boxes, and large appliances can be moved to storage temporarily, leaving you with a tidy and safe space for both packing and settling in.

Storage units are also ideal for keeping hazardous items out of the way, such as cleaning supplies, tools, or sharp objects. With flexible access hours, you can retrieve these items once you’ve safely moved your pet and feel ready to organise your new home.

Moving House with Specific Types of Pets

Different pets have different needs during a move, so it’s worth tailoring your approach:

Tips for moving with Dogs

Dogs thrive on routine and activity. If possible, take your dog to explore their new neighbourhood before moving day to familiarise them with the sights and smells. During the move, keep them on a leash or in a secure area to prevent them from becoming disoriented.

Tips for moving with Cats

Cats are highly sensitive to change, so keep them indoors for at least two weeks after the move. This gives them time to adjust to their new space. Ensure their litter box is placed in a quiet, easily accessible spot.

Tips for moving with Small Animals

For pets like rabbits, hamsters, or birds, maintaining their habitat setup is crucial. Keep their cages or enclosures consistent, and avoid making changes to their environment during the move. Check on your animals regularly for signs of stress and ask a vet for further advice if you're unsure.

Simplify Your Move Today for you and your furry friends

Moving house with pets doesn’t have to be stressful. With careful planning, a little patience, and the right resources, you can create a smooth and positive experience for everyone involved.

If you’re preparing for a move, let SelfStorageBooker.com help you create a calmer environment for your pet. By storing extra items in a secure, flexible self-storage unit, you can focus on making your new house a welcoming home for your pet. Visit SelfStorageBooker.com today to book your perfect storage solution and make moving day a breeze