Moving is no small feat, and when you’ve got pets in tow, it’s an entirely different ball game. Your pets are your beloved companions, and they deserve to feel safe, comfortable, and well-cared for during this significant life change. The good news? With some thoughtful planning and a little extra effort, you can make moving day a breeze for both you and your furry friends.
If you’re planning a move to Arlington, VA, keep reading to dive into everything you need to know to make your relocation pet-friendly and stress-free.
Get Your Pets Ready for the Move
If you’re feeling the stress of moving, imagine how it feels for your pets. They don’t know what’s happening — they just see boxes piling up and routines thrown off. The solution Ease them into it.
Start with their carriers or crates. Are they comfortable hanging out inside them? If not, make it a safe space by adding a favorite blanket or toy. Give them treats and praise while they’re inside to create a positive atmosphere.
Schedule a vet visit before the big day. This isn’t just about vaccines and health checks (although that’s important too). Ask your vet for advice on keeping your pets calm during the move. Need anti-anxiety options like calming sprays or supplements? Now’s the time to figure that out.
And here’s a pro tip: Take stock of your pets’ personalities. If your dog is super chill but your cat is the nervous type, tailor your plans to suit their needs.
Start with their carriers or crates. Are they comfortable hanging out inside them? If not, make it a safe space by adding a favorite blanket or toy. Give them treats and praise while they’re inside to create a positive atmosphere.
Schedule a vet visit before the big day. This isn’t just about vaccines and health checks (although that’s important too). Ask your vet for advice on keeping your pets calm during the move. Need anti-anxiety options like calming sprays or supplements? Now’s the time to figure that out.
And here’s a pro tip: Take stock of your pets’ personalities. If your dog is super chill but your cat is the nervous type, tailor your plans to suit their needs.
Pack Like a Pro — for Your Pets
When you’re packing up your home, don’t forget about your pets’ essentials. Put together a "pet survival kit" with everything they’ll need for a few days. Think food, water, bowls, medications, favorite toys, waste bags, a leash, and their bed or blanket.
Keep this bag handy — it’s your lifeline during the move. The last thing you want is to dig through boxes looking for your cat’s litter or your dog’s chew toy when everyone’s already stressed out.
Don’t overlook the basics. Stock up on pet food, especially if you use a specialty brand that might be hard to find in your new location.
Keep this bag handy — it’s your lifeline during the move. The last thing you want is to dig through boxes looking for your cat’s litter or your dog’s chew toy when everyone’s already stressed out.
Don’t overlook the basics. Stock up on pet food, especially if you use a specialty brand that might be hard to find in your new location.
Conquer Moving Day Chaos
Moving day is often pure madness. People are coming and going, boxes are everywhere, and your pets can sense the chaos. Your mission is to keep them safe and as far away from the commotion as possible.
Set up a quiet, secure space for them — whether that’s a room in your home or a trusted friend’s place. Add their essentials, like food, water, and a comfy bed, so they feel grounded.
Double-check their ID tags to make sure your contact info is up to date. If your pets aren’t microchipped yet, consider completing that before moving day.
When it’s time to hit the road, keep your pets in their carriers or on a leash. This isn’t the moment for a surprise game of hide-and-seek.
Set up a quiet, secure space for them — whether that’s a room in your home or a trusted friend’s place. Add their essentials, like food, water, and a comfy bed, so they feel grounded.
Double-check their ID tags to make sure your contact info is up to date. If your pets aren’t microchipped yet, consider completing that before moving day.
When it’s time to hit the road, keep your pets in their carriers or on a leash. This isn’t the moment for a surprise game of hide-and-seek.
Keep Calm and Travel On
Traveling with pets is an adventure, but it doesn’t have to be stressful. For car trips, plan regular stops for bathroom breaks, snacks, and stretches. Your pets will appreciate the chance to stretch their legs (and so will you).
Never leave your pets alone in the car, even for a quick pit stop. Temperatures can change quickly, and it’s just not worth the risk.
If you’re flying, keep in mind that airlines have different policies for pet travel, so check everything ahead of time, including carrier size requirements, health certificates, and fees. If your pet is traveling in the cargo hold, make sure that their crate is secure, well-ventilated, and labeled with your contact info.
During travel, stick to your pets’ routines as much as possible. Feed them at their regular times, offer water often, and bring along a favorite toy or a blanket for comfort.
Never leave your pets alone in the car, even for a quick pit stop. Temperatures can change quickly, and it’s just not worth the risk.
If you’re flying, keep in mind that airlines have different policies for pet travel, so check everything ahead of time, including carrier size requirements, health certificates, and fees. If your pet is traveling in the cargo hold, make sure that their crate is secure, well-ventilated, and labeled with your contact info.
During travel, stick to your pets’ routines as much as possible. Feed them at their regular times, offer water often, and bring along a favorite toy or a blanket for comfort.
Help Your Pets Settle Into Their New Home
The moment you walk into your new home in Arlington, your pets will pick up on the unfamiliar smells, sights, and sounds. The key to helping them adjust is to start small.
Create a "safe zone" for your pets with their essentials, including food, water, a bed, and toys. This space should feel familiar and calming, giving them a safe spot to retreat to while they explore at their own pace.
Once they’re comfortable, let them explore the rest of the house, one room at a time. Stick to their usual routines, whether it’s morning walks, playtime, or feeding schedules.
Familiarity is everything when it comes to easing their anxiety. And don’t skimp on the bonding time. Whether it’s cuddles, play sessions, or quiet moments together, your attention is what they need most during this transition.
Create a "safe zone" for your pets with their essentials, including food, water, a bed, and toys. This space should feel familiar and calming, giving them a safe spot to retreat to while they explore at their own pace.
Once they’re comfortable, let them explore the rest of the house, one room at a time. Stick to their usual routines, whether it’s morning walks, playtime, or feeding schedules.
Familiarity is everything when it comes to easing their anxiety. And don’t skimp on the bonding time. Whether it’s cuddles, play sessions, or quiet moments together, your attention is what they need most during this transition.
In the end, moving with pets might feel overwhelming, but it’s also an opportunity to grow closer to your furry companions. With the right preparation, you can make the experience as smooth and stress-free as possible. At the end of the day, the love and trust between you and your pets will make your new house feel like home in no time.
The Keri Shull Team is ready to help you achieve your real estate goals in Arlington, Virginia. Reach out today to begin.
