11 Tips For Moving With a Pet – Your Ultimate Guide
Moving with a pet can be exciting—but also a little overwhelming. Whether you have a dog, cat, bird, or something a bit more exotic, you want to make sure they feel safe, comfortable, and cared for throughout the entire process. After all, your pet is part of the family.
At U & Me Moving and Storage, we’ve been helping families move smoothly for over 100 years. We know how important it is to look out for every member of your household—including the four-legged ones. This guide covers 11 simple and helpful moving with pets tips to make things easier for everyone involved.
1. Visit the Vet Before You Move
Before you start packing boxes or planning your route, schedule a visit with your veterinarian. This is one of the most important steps when moving with a pet because it ensures they’re healthy, up to date on vaccines, and ready for the changes ahead. Even if your pet seems fine, a pre-move checkup gives you peace of mind and helps you prepare for any travel-related requirements.
If you’re moving out of state, you may need to show proof of vaccinations, updated medical records, or a health certificate depending on where you’re going. Airlines also have specific rules, and many require official paperwork before you’re allowed to board with your pet.
During your appointment, here are the key things to ask for:
- A copy of your pet’s full medical records
This should include vaccination history, past illnesses, surgeries, and any ongoing treatments. Your new veterinarian will need this information, and some apartment complexes or HOAs may even request vaccine records. - Prescription refills if needed
If your pet takes medication, ask for enough to last at least a few weeks after the move. This gives you time to settle in and find a new vet without worrying about running out. - Calming options for travel
Some pets get anxious during long car rides or flights. Your vet can recommend safe calming solutions, such as:- Prescription anxiety medication
- Over-the-counter calming chews
- Pheromone sprays
- Tips for crate training before the trip
- An updated health certificate
Many states and airlines require an official health certificate signed by your vet within 10–30 days of travel. This document confirms your pet is healthy, free of contagious diseases, and safe for travel.
Common Questions About Vet Visits Before Moving
Do all pets need a health certificate to move out of state?
Not always. It depends on state laws. Some require certificates for dogs only, while others require them for all pets. Your vet can check the rules for your destination.
How early should I schedule the visit?
Aim for 2–4 weeks before your move. This gives you time to handle paperwork, request records, and get any medications your pet might need.
What if my pet hates the vet?
Let your vet know ahead of time. They may suggest:
- Scheduling a quieter appointment time
- Allowing you to wait in the car until a room is ready
- Using treats or calming aids
- Bringing your pet’s favorite toy or blanket
Should I ask about microchipping?
If your pet isn’t microchipped, this is a great time to do it. With doors opening, movers coming and going, and a new environment ahead, a microchip increases the chances of your pet being found if they get lost.
Visiting the vet before your move sets the stage for a safe, smooth transition for your pet. It ensures you have everything you need—from paperwork to medication—before moving day arrives. Let me know if you’d like the next tip expanded the same way.
2. Update Tags and Microchip Info
If your pet gets lost during the move or at your new place, having the right contact info is key. Double-check that their ID tag has your current phone number and your new address. If your pet has a microchip, contact the company and update your info there too.
3. Stick to Their Routine
Pets love routine. So even if you’re busy packing, try to keep their daily schedule the same—especially when it comes to feeding, walks, and bedtime.
The more normal things feel, the less anxious they’ll be. This also helps them adjust more easily when you get to the new place.
4. Pack a Bag Just for Them
Just like you might pack a bag with your essentials for the first night, your pet needs one too. Keep this bag in the car with you so it’s always easy to reach.
Include:
- Food and treats
- Bowls for water and food
- Medications (if they take any)
- Toys or a blanket that smells like home
- Waste bags or litter
- Leash or carrier
5. Keep Pets in a Safe Space on Moving Day
Moving day can be loud and stressful—with doors open and people coming in and out. It’s easy for a pet to get scared or slip out unnoticed.
To keep them safe:
- Put them in a quiet room or crate while the movers are working
- Close the door and put up a sign that says “Do Not Open – Pet Inside”
- Check in with them often to give comfort and water
While your pet stays secure, make sure your belongings are equally protected with these expert techniques for safeguarding furniture during the move.
6. Plan the Right Travel Setup
If you’re driving to your new home, make sure your pet is safe and secure in the car. Use a pet seatbelt harness or a crate. If the trip is long, plan to stop for bathroom breaks and water.
If you’re flying:
- Call the airline ahead of time to learn their pet rules
- Book a nonstop flight if possible
- Make sure your pet’s carrier is approved for the cabin or cargo hold
If you’re relocating across state lines with your pet, our long-distance moving guide covers everything from route planning to timeline considerations.
7. Check Rules at Your New Home
Before you move in, find out if your new home or neighborhood has any pet rules. Some places have restrictions on certain breeds, pet sizes, or the number of pets allowed. You might also need to pay a pet deposit or get a license.
Knowing all this ahead of time avoids problems after you arrive.
8. Let Them Explore Slowly
Your pet might feel unsure or nervous in a new space. Start by setting up one room just for them with their favorite things—bed, food, toys, and water. Let them get used to that room before opening the rest of the house.
The familiar smells will help them settle in faster.
9. Be Patient and Use Praise
Your pet may act differently at first. Some might hide, bark more, or have accidents in the house. That’s normal—it’s just their way of reacting to all the change.
Instead of getting upset, give them extra love and attention. Use treats and praise to help them feel secure and adjust over time.
10. Find a New Vet Right Away
As soon as you’re settled, look for a new vet nearby. Save their contact info and find out where the closest emergency animal hospital is too. If anything happens, you’ll be glad you did this early on.
Also, ask your old vet to send over your pet’s medical records.
11. Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help
Between packing, cleaning, and organizing the move, there’s already a lot on your plate. Adding a pet to the mix can make things even more stressful. If it feels like too much, it’s okay to call in the pros.
If coordinating pet care while managing your move feels overwhelming, consider how full-service moving options can handle the heavy lifting so you can focus on your pet’s comfort.
At U & Me Moving and Storage, we understand what moving with a pet really looks like—and we’re here to make it easier.
Bonus Moving with Pets Tips: Choose Movers Who Treat Pets Like Family
At U & Me Moving and Storage, we know that moving isn’t just about boxes. It’s about people—and pets, too.
We offer:
- Local and long-distance moving services
- Packing and unpacking support
- Secure storage for anything you don’t need right away
- Friendly, trained movers who show up on time and treat your home with respect
- Honest, upfront pricing with no surprises
We’ll handle the hard stuff so you can focus on keeping your pet calm and happy.
Moving With a Pet Can Be a Smooth Experience
When it comes to moving with a pet, a little planning goes a long way. From vet visits to packing the right gear and easing them into your new home, these 11 tips will help make the journey easier for both of you.
Looking for a moving company that gets it?
Contact U & Me Moving and Storage to schedule a move you—and your pet—can feel good about.