A Practical Guide for Moving with Pets

How to move pets across country: Things to do before, during and after 

Every pet responds to moving differently. Some treat a cross-country road trip like the adventure of a lifetime. Others spend the entire move questioning the life choices that led them into a carrier. 

No matter what type of animal you're moving with, a little preparation can help reduce stress and make the experience better for everyone involved.

The tips below offer a good overview of things to do, but we’ve also gathered more specific information about these types of pets:

• Dogs 
• Cats 
• Fish 
• Exotic animals (birds, reptiles, rabbits, etc.) 

Before the move

Start preparing animals for moving as early as possible. Some pets adapt quickly to change, while others need extra time to get comfortable with new routines, travel and unfamiliar surroundings.

Check laws, rules and regulations

Before signing a lease, purchasing a home or booking travel arrangements, take time to research any restrictions that may apply.

Start by checking state requirements for bringing animals across state lines. Then be sure to ask landlords, property managers, HOAs or local officials about breed restrictions, pet limits, registration requirements or other rules that could affect your plans.

If you're moving somewhere with stricter entry requirements, like Canada or Hawaii, additional paperwork and processes are needed. Learn more about moving pets to Canada and bringing animals with you to Hawaii. 

Take practice car rides 

A cross-country drive shouldn't be your pets’ first long ride in a vehicle. Take a few shorter practice trips to help them adjust gradually and reduce stress on moving day.

Pay attention during these drives. Do they seem nervous? Do they get carsick? Learning those answers ahead of time gives you an opportunity to adjust before you're several hours into a trip.

It's also smart to help pets get comfortable with the crate, carrier or enclosure they'll travel in. Leaving it out and using it regularly before the move can help it feel familiar instead of something only associated with travel.

Visit the vet 

Schedule a checkup several weeks before moving day to make sure vaccinations are current and any health concerns are addressed before the trip.

This is a good time to:

• Refill prescription medications
• Request copies of medical records
• Ask about health certificates, if required

If your pet struggles with anxiety, car travel or motion sickness, your veterinarian can discuss strategies to help make the trip more comfortable.

Update pet identification

Moving day is busy; doors are often left open, and unfamiliar surroundings can make pets more likely to bolt. Making sure identification information is current is one of the simplest ways to protect them.

Check that ID tags are attached securely and include your current cell phone number. If your pet has a microchip, verify the registration information is accurate and update it with your new address as soon as it's available.

Find places to stop or stay overnight

Long-distance travel is easier when you know where you'll stop before you hit the road. Map out rest breaks so pets have regular opportunities for water, exercise and bathroom breaks.

If the move requires an overnight stay, confirm pet policies before making reservations. Not every hotel that allows pets accepts all animals, and some have restrictions based on size, breed or the number of pets allowed.

During the move

Your pet may not understand why you're leaving home, but they definitely know something unusual is happening. Taking care of your pet during moving day and the drive should be a top priority.

Find them a safe spot 

Keep pets in a quiet room, crate or other secure area while loading is taking place. Make sure they have access to food, water, bedding and a few familiar items until it's time to leave. If possible, ask a friend, family member or pet sitter to watch them during the busiest parts of the move.

Keep pet supplies within easy reach

Pack a separate bag with everything your pet might need during the trip. 

Include essentials like:

• Food and treats
• Water and bowls
• Medications
• Leashes and harnesses
• Waste bags or litter supplies
• Cleaning supplies for accidents
• Favorite toys or blankets

Follow safe travel practices

Pets should ride with you, not inside a moving truck, trailer or storage container. Use a secure crate, carrier or pet seat restraint designed for travel and make sure it is properly positioned in the vehicle. 

Avoid letting pets roam freely in the car, which can be distracting and unsafe for both them and the driver.

Try to stick to familiar routines 

Even small moments of consistency can help animals feel more secure during a major transition. Try to maintain regular feeding times, walks and exercise schedules throughout the trip.

After the move 

The biggest focus after arriving at your new home should be helping them adjust. New smells, sounds and routines can take some getting used to, so it's important to make the transition as smooth as possible.

Introduce things gradually

Some pets are ready to explore right away, while others may be more cautious. Start by letting them get comfortable in a smaller area before giving them access to the entire home.

For dogs, this might mean exploring one room at a time. For cats and other small animals, a designated "home base" can help them feel secure while they adjust to their surroundings.

Reestablish routines

Once you've arrived, try to get back to regular feeding, walking, play and bedtime schedules as quickly as possible.

Familiar routines can provide a sense of stability and help pets understand that, while the location has changed, their daily life hasn't been completely turned upside down. Don't be surprised if your pets seem more clingy, reserved or distracted than usual at first. Give them time, offer plenty of reassurance and let them adjust at their own pace.

Pet-proof your new home

Before letting pets roam freely, look for potential hazards in and around the property. Check fences and gates for gaps, secure balconies and outdoor spaces, and make sure cleaning products, medications and other dangerous items are stored safely out of reach. 

Explore the neighborhood together

Once pets are comfortable in the home, start introducing them to outdoor surroundings (if they go outside). Take dogs for walks through the neighborhood and locate nearby parks, pet stores and veterinary clinics. 

Watch for signs that extra help is needed

Temporary changes in behavior are common after a move, but ongoing issues may signal stress or anxiety. If your pet refuses to eat, shows signs of illness or continues struggling to adjust after several weeks, contact a veterinarian for guidance. They can help determine whether additional support is needed.

U-Pack can help pet parents move comfortably 

After all the planning, packing and traveling, the goal is simple: getting everyone (including your pets!) to the new home safely. U-Pack® makes that easy. While we move your stuff, you can travel with your pets and get everyone settled comfortably. 

Get a free quote online or call us at 844-362-5303844-594-3077 to speak with a moving consultant. 

If you have any questions about moving long distance with animals or about U-Pack services, let us know in the comments. We’re happy to help!