How to Prepare Your Pets for Moving to A New House

House moving with pets needs to be carefully planned to keep them safe. If you have a friend or family member close enough, asking them to look after your pets on moving day could be a good option, particularly for dogs. Alternatively, the following advice should help make moving day as stress-free as possible.

Dogs & Cats

A secure, sturdy carrier is essential for transporting cats. They then need to be confined in a secure room. Ideally, provide a cat or puppy cage big enough to house a bed, feeding bowl, litter tray and water and place it somewhere relatively quiet to prevent accidental escapes. They will need to be kept indoors until they are calm enough to venture outdoors – with nervous cats, this could be several weeks.

Dogs also need to be in a quiet and secure place throughout the day. You might consider a day-stay in a nearby kennels. Check boundary fences thoroughly and do not leave dogs unattended in the garden.

Make sure microchip details are updated with your new address. Your vet may suggest a mild sedative for nervous pets.

Small Pets, Fish & Exotics

Small animals and caged birds can be transported in their cages. A cover for open cages will provide extra security for the occupant.

Fish can be carried in plastic bags, secured with enough air to provide oxygen. Insulated picnic boxes will keep the bags safe and help to keep the temperature stable. Tropical fish can then be put in an airing cupboard to keep warm until their tank heats up.

Exotic animals should be transported in purpose-made carriers. Some pet shops offer holding facilities for both exotics and fish and we highly recommend this service should you be fortunate enough to find it in your area, as it gives you time to prepare for their arrival.

Moving to a new house with pets can be a daunting prospect, but following our guidelines will help to ensure their safety and welfare throughout the day.