Moving With Pets: Essential Tips for a Stress-Free House Move

Moving home is an exciting milestone, but it can also be one of life's most stressful experiences — not only for you, but for your pets as well. Dogs, cats and other companion animals thrive on routine, so changes to their environment can leave them feeling anxious and unsettled. With a little planning, you can make the transition much smoother for every member of the family.

At Borgas Removals, we understand that moving house involves more than simply transporting your furniture and appliances. Your pets are an important part of your family too, so preparing them for moving day is an important part of the process. Here are some practical tips to help keep your pets safe, calm and comfortable before, during and after your move.

Plan Ahead for Moving Day

One of the most important things to consider is where your pets will be on moving day. There can be plenty of activity around the home as furniture and appliances are being moved, doors are opened and closed, and people are coming and going.

For many pets, this unfamiliar activity can be stressful. It can also create a risk of them getting underfoot or escaping through an open door or gate.

If possible, arrange for your pet to stay with a trusted friend, family member or reputable boarding facility while the move is taking place. If your pet needs to remain at home, consider keeping them in a secure, quiet room away from the moving activity. Make sure they have access to fresh water, food, bedding and familiar toys.

Keeping pets safely separated from the moving activity also allows the removalists to concentrate on safely handling your household furniture and appliances.

Prepare Your Pets Before the Move

Animals can pick up on changes in their surroundings, and packing and preparing your belongings for a move can sometimes make them nervous.

Try to maintain your pet's normal routine as much as possible in the days and weeks leading up to moving day. Keep regular feeding times, walks and play sessions wherever possible.

If your pet is particularly anxious about changes to their environment, speak with your veterinarian for advice before the move. Your vet may also be able to recommend suitable ways to help your pet cope with the change.

It's also worth researching veterinary clinics close to your new home before moving. Having the details of a local vet on hand means you won't need to search for one if your pet requires attention after you've relocated.

Keep Pets Safe During the Move

Moving day can be a busy time, so pet safety should always be a priority.

Dogs and cats can become frightened by unfamiliar people, noise and activity. Keeping pets away from the moving area helps reduce the risk of accidents and prevents them from becoming stressed or getting outside accidentally.

If you're travelling with your pet, make sure they are secured safely in an appropriate carrier or restraint. Take familiar items with you, such as bedding or a favourite toy, to provide some comfort during the journey.

Don't forget to bring water, food and any medication your pet may need, particularly if you're travelling a longer distance to your new home.

Make Sure Your Pet's Details Are Up to Date

Before moving, check that your pet's identification information is current.

If your pet is microchipped, update the registered contact details with your new address and phone number. It's also worth checking that identification tags on collars have current contact information.

This is particularly important when moving because an unfamiliar environment can increase the chance of a pet becoming lost. Having up-to-date information makes it easier for you to be contacted if your pet is found.

It can also be useful to keep recent photographs of your pet on your phone, just in case you need them.

Check Your New Home Before Letting Pets Explore

Before allowing your pets to freely explore your new property, take some time to check the surroundings.

For dogs, make sure fences, gates and other boundaries are secure. Look for gaps or areas where a curious pet could potentially escape.

Cats may also benefit from being kept indoors initially while they become familiar with their new surroundings. Giving them time to adjust can help them recognise the new house as their safe and familiar space.

For all pets, try to create a familiar environment by setting up their bedding, toys, food bowls and other belongings as soon as practical.

Help Your Pets Settle In

Once you've moved into your new home, give your pets time to adjust.

Some animals may immediately explore their new surroundings, while others may hide or appear nervous. Don't rush them. Allow them to become comfortable at their own pace.

Keeping familiar routines can also help. Continue feeding them at their usual times and maintain their normal walks and playtime where possible.

Familiar smells, belongings and routines can provide reassurance while your pet gets used to the new environment.

Remember Your Own Moving Preparations

While you're making arrangements for your pets, don't forget to prepare your household belongings for collection.

Borgas Removals specialises in the pickup, transport and delivery of household furniture and appliances. Customers are responsible for packing and preparing their belongings before the scheduled pickup.

Whether you're moving locally or relocating between Adelaide and regional South Australia, preparing your furniture and appliances in advance can help make moving day more organised.

Borgas Removals does not transport business, office or commercial equipment. The service is focused specifically on household furniture and appliances.

Make Moving With Pets Easier

Moving with pets doesn't have to be overwhelming. Planning ahead, keeping pets away from the moving activity and maintaining familiar routines can make the transition much easier for everyone.

By organising your pet's arrangements before moving day, checking their identification details and preparing their new environment, you can help them feel safe and comfortable throughout the move.

At Borgas Removals, we provide pickup, transport and delivery of household furniture and appliances, helping make the physical side of your move as straightforward as possible. With your household belongings prepared and your pets safely cared for, you can focus on settling into your new home together.