Moving With Pets? Here’s How to Keep Them Safe and Stress-Free

Moving to a new home is exciting, but when you have pets, the process comes with extra challenges. Ensuring the safety and comfort of your furry friends during a move requires careful planning. Whether you're relocating across South Carolina or moving to a new state, following pet-friendly moving tips will help make the transition smoother for both you and your beloved companion.

At Highway Men Moving, we understand that pets are family. This guide will walk you through how to move with a dog, a cat, or other pets in a way that keeps them calm, safe, and stress-free.

Why Moving Can Be Stressful for Pets

Pets are creatures of habit, and changes in their environment can cause anxiety. The hustle and bustle of packing, unfamiliar surroundings, and long hours in a vehicle can be overwhelming for them.

Common pet moving stressors include:

• Unfamiliar noises and chaos during packing

• Changes in routine (e.g., feeding schedules, walks)

• Travel anxiety from car rides or airplane transport

• New smells and environments that may cause fear

By preparing ahead of time, you can reduce your pet’s stress and ensure a smoother transition.

Pre-Move Preparations: Getting Your Pet Ready

1. Visit the Vet

Before moving, schedule a vet check-up to ensure your pet is healthy for travel.

• Get updated vaccinations and health records.

• Ask for sedation or anxiety medication if your pet gets nervous traveling.

• Request recommendations for a vet in your new location.

• Ensure microchip information and ID tags are up to date.

2. Keep Their Routine Consistent

As moving day approaches, try to keep your pet’s daily routine as normal as possible. Feed them at the usual times, take regular walks, and maintain playtime to provide comfort.

3. Prepare a Pet Moving Kit

Pack a bag with essential pet items for moving day and the first few days in your new home.

Include: Food and water bowls. Leash, collar, and ID tags.Favorite toys and blankets. Medications and health records. Litter box (for cats). Waste bags or puppy pads

Moving Day: How to Keep Your Pet Safe

4. Create a Safe Space for Your Pet

On moving day, all the activity can be overwhelming. Set up a quiet, secure space away from the chaos.

• Use a spare room with familiar bedding and toys.

• Keep the door closed or use a pet gate to prevent them from escaping.

• If possible, ask a friend or pet sitter to watch your pet until the move is complete.

5. Use a Secure Carrier or Crate

When transporting your pet, safety comes first.

• Dogs: Use a secured crate or a pet seatbelt harness in the car.

• Cats: Keep them in a ventilated pet carrier to prevent them from running away.

• Small animals: Transport them in their cages, secured in the vehicle.

Never transport pets in the moving truck! The conditions can be unsafe due to temperature changes and lack of ventilation.

6. Take Breaks During Travel

If you’re driving long distances, make sure to take frequent breaks to let your pet stretch, hydrate, and relieve themselves.

• Stop every 2-3 hours for bathroom breaks.

• Offer small amounts of water and snacks.

• Never leave your pet alone in the car—especially in warm weather.

Settling Into Your New Home: Helping Your Pet Adjust

7. Introduce Your Pet to the New Space Gradually

When you arrive at your new home, give your pet time to adjust to their new surroundings.

• Set up a designated pet area with their familiar bed, toys, and food.

• Let them explore slowly, one room at a time.

• Stick to their normal feeding and walking schedule to provide stability.

8. Pet-Proof Your New Home

Before letting your pet roam freely, check for any hazards:

• Secure windows, balconies, and fences.

• Keep toxic plants, cords, and chemicals out of reach.

• Make sure there are no escape routes your pet could squeeze through.

9. Reintroduce Outdoor Time Carefully

For dogs, explore the neighborhood with leashed walks before allowing off-leash play. For cats, consider keeping them indoors for the first few weeks before letting them explore outside.

10. Help Pets Cope with Stress

If your pet seems anxious after the move, try these calming techniques:

• Use a pheromone diffuser (like Feliway for cats or Adaptil for dogs).

• Give them extra cuddles, attention, and playtime.

• Provide a safe hiding spot if they seem nervous.

Bonus: Moving with Exotic Pets or Fish

If you have birds, reptiles, or fish, follow these additional tips:

• Birds – Keep them in a covered, well-ventilated cage and avoid temperature fluctuations.

• Reptiles – Transport in a secure container with a warm pad if needed.

• Fish – Move them in sealed plastic bags with tank water and set up the tank ASAP at your new home.

Why Choose Highway Men Moving for Your Pet-Friendly Move?

Moving with pets is easier when you have professional movers handling the logistics. At Highway Men Moving, we make relocating simple and stress-free for both you and your furry family members.

Experienced Movers – Our team is trained to handle moves efficiently and carefully. Pet-Friendly Moving Services – We understand the extra care needed when moving with pets. Reliable & Affordable – Competitive pricing with no hidden fees. Stress-Free Process – We take the heavy lifting off your plate so you can focus on your pet.

Call us today or visit our website to get a FREE moving quote!

Final Thoughts

Moving with pets requires extra care, but with proper preparation and a patient approach, your furry friends will settle into their new home in no time. By following these pet-friendly moving tips, you can make the transition safe and stress-free.

If you’re looking for a trusted moving company in South Carolina, Highway Men Moving is here to help! Contact us today and let us make your move easier for you and your pets.