Whether you’re moving across the country or just relocating a few streets over, moving with pets can be a challenge.
Dogs and cats rely on familiar sights and smells that tell them, “I’m home!” Moving changes everything in your pet’s world, and at first, it can be difficult for them to adapt.
Use these tried-and-true tips to help ease the transition and reduce moving stress for both you and your four-legged family members.

Transfer Your Pet’s Vet Records

One of the biggest challenges of moving your pet to a new home is finding the right vet in your new city or town. If you know and love your old vet, they might recommend someone who works in your new zipcode. You can also ask your online neighborhood group or check online reviews to find a vet you’ll love.
Many vets do not have immediate availability for new patient appointments, so plan at least a few weeks in advance if your pet has an upcoming annual wellness visit or needs a prescription refill.
Once you find a new vet, you’ll need to transfer your pet’s medical records. You can do this by requesting their documents and bringing them in yourself, or asking your old vet’s office staff to send them directly to the new vet.
Also, get to know veterinary urgent care centers and emergency vet hospitals nearby so you’ll know where to go in case of a sudden health issue or injury.

Update Your Pet’s ID and Microchip

It’s not uncommon for pets to get lost soon after relocating, especially in a new, unfamiliar area. Make sure to update your pet’s microchip so it’s linked to your most recent contact information. Also, if they wear a collar with identification tags, purchase a tag with your new address beforehand so you can switch it in as soon as you move with your pet.

Wait Before Letting Your Pet Loose

If you’ve moved to a home with a fenced-in yard, you might be looking forward to letting your dog run out and play for the first time. Make sure to supervise to ensure there are no holes in the fence or other ways that your dog could escape that you may have overlooked. Taking your dog for on-leash walks around the neighborhood can help them get familiar with the area.
As for cats, the indoor-only lifestyle is always safest. Roaming cats are vulnerable to getting into fights with other cats, hunting animals, getting hit by cars, being stolen, or otherwise getting into harm’s way. Consider building a catio or cat proofing your new yard instead.

Bring Your Pet’s Familiar Favorites

You may be looking forward to replacing your pet’s old, shabby bed with new furnishings that match your new home interior. For now, though, make sure your pet feels at home with all of their creature comforts, like beds, toys, and blankets. No need to wash before packing - your pet will prefer items that are still thoroughly marinated in their own scent.

Get Your Pet Settled in First

Pets of all ages tend to feel overwhelmed when first stepping foot in their new home. You can help your pet adjust by unpacking their belongings first, then setting up a quiet space for them in a safe, pet-proofed bedroom. That way, they can settle in and stay out of the way while you finish bringing in boxes, hauling furniture, and moving heavy items.
Make sure your pet always has access to clean, fresh water and knows where to find their litter box or access to the outdoors. If you’re upgrading to a larger home, you may need to add additional litter boxes and water bowls to make sure your pet is never far away from their necessities.

Make Your New Home Accessible

Does your new home have stairs? You may need to limit your pet’s access with a pet gate if they’re a senior or have limited mobility, or for puppies and kittens that don’t yet know how to navigate stairs safely.
Ramps and pet steps can help your pet access new, elevated surfaces like high beds and couches.
If you’re transitioning from carpets to hardwood floors, your pet may have trouble gripping the smooth surface. Area rugs and runners provide traction to keep your pet from slipping.

Update Your Shipping Address on PetMeds.com

As an existing PetMeds customer, you can login and update your shipping address to make sure your pet’s food, medications, and other supplies are sent to your new home.
If you haven’t already, save time and money with AutoShip for your pet’s favorite food, medications, and flea and tick preventatives. Keeping your pet stocked up can be one less thing to worry about while you settle into your new home.

VISION

Every pet deserves to live a long, happy, healthy life.