Moving into a new home is a major life event, filled with excitement, new beginnings, and plenty of planning. But for pet owners, moving comes with an added layer of responsibility: making sure your pets transition smoothly. Dogs, cats, and even smaller animals like rabbits or birds can find change overwhelming. They thrive on familiarity and routine, and a move disrupts both.
At Anber Movers, a trusted Montreal moving company, we understand how important pets are to your family. Your furry (or feathered) companions deserve the same care and consideration as any family member during a move. In this guide, you’ll find practical, step-by-step advice to help reduce stress for both you and your pets.
Why Moving Can Be Stressful for Pets
Pets may not understand what’s happening when boxes pile up or furniture gets rearranged. To them, the home is their safe zone, and every change signals uncertainty. This unfamiliarity can lead to behavioral or health issues if not managed properly.
For example:
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Dogs may become clingy or bark more than usual.
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Cats might hide for long periods or refuse food.
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Birds or smaller pets can show signs of agitation, like plucking feathers or pacing in cages.
Stress in animals isn’t just about behavior—it can affect their overall well-being. Elevated stress may lead to stomach upset, accidents in the house, or disrupted sleep. Recognizing these potential challenges is the first step toward helping them adapt.
Preparing Your Pets Before the Move
The foundation of a successful move with pets is preparation. Starting early helps your pets adjust gradually rather than being shocked by sudden changes.
Visit the Vet
Schedule a vet appointment about two to three weeks before the move. This ensures your pet is healthy and fit for travel. Use this visit to:
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Update vaccinations
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Refill prescriptions for ongoing treatments
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Request a copy of medical records (especially if moving far away)
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Ask about calming solutions if your pet struggles with anxiety
This small step provides peace of mind and avoids scrambling for medical care after the move.
Update Identification
Moving means new surroundings, and pets sometimes wander as they explore. To avoid long, stressful searches:
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Ensure microchip information is up to date with your new address and phone number.
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Replace old ID tags with current contact details.
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Double-check collars are secure but comfortable.
These simple updates can make all the difference if your pet gets lost in an unfamiliar neighborhood.
Familiarize Them with Carriers and Crates
For pets that will travel in carriers, begin desensitisation well before moving day. Place the carrier in a quiet spot at home, add a favorite blanket or toy, and let your pet explore it freely. Reward them with treats when they go inside voluntarily. Over time, they’ll see it as a safe space rather than something to fear.
Creating a Pet-Friendly Moving Day
Moving day itself is often chaotic—movers going in and out, furniture being lifted, boxes stacked high, and doors left open. Pets can easily become overwhelmed or slip outside unnoticed. Creating a calm, controlled environment is essential.
Here’s how to make moving day safer for your pets:
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Set aside a quiet room: Fill it with their food, water, bedding, and toys. This reduces exposure to noise and activity.
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Assign a caretaker: Ask a family member or trusted friend to watch them while movers work. Pets are calmer when familiar faces are nearby.
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Stick to routines: Keep feeding and bathroom breaks on schedule. Routine reassures pets that not everything has changed.
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Use familiar scents: blankets, toys, or even an unwashed piece of your clothing can provide comfort.
By controlling their environment on moving day, you protect them from unnecessary stress and keep them safe from escape accidents. Managing pets on moving day can be easier when the rest of the process runs smoothly. To simplify the logistics, explore our 10 Time-Saving Tips for a Smooth Residential Move.”
Traveling with Your Pets
How you transport your pets depends on the distance of your move and their temperament. Both short and long-distance travel require planning to ensure comfort and safety.
Car Travel
Most dogs tolerate car rides well, but long journeys may still feel stressful. Here’s how to make it easier:
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Take short practice drives beforehand.
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Pack a travel kit with water, bowls, treats, and waste bags.
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Use a secure harness or carrier to prevent sudden movement during stops or turns.
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Plan breaks every couple of hours for bathroom needs and stretching.
Cats often find car rides more stressful. Keeping them in a comfortable carrier with a favorite blanket helps reduce anxiety. Speaking softly and avoiding sudden loud noises also keeps them calmer. The way you plan for your pets often depends on the type of move you’re making. Learn more about the differences in our blog on Local vs. Long-Distance Montreal Movers – Which is Right for You?.
Air Travel
Air travel with pets requires more preparation. Start by contacting the airline early to confirm their pet policies. Ask whether your pet can travel in-cabin or must go in cargo. Book direct flights whenever possible to avoid long layovers. Before the flight, exercise your dog or play with your cat so they’re more relaxed during travel.
Always label carriers with your contact details, destination, and a note that says “Live Animal” for added safety.
Helping Pets Adjust to Their New Home
Arriving at your new home is just the beginning of another adjustment period for your pets. New smells, sounds, and sights can be overwhelming.
Start with One Room
Designate a single room as their safe zone. Place food, water, litter box (for cats), and favorite toys inside. Once they show signs of comfort, gradually allow them to explore other areas. This prevents them from feeling overwhelmed by too much change at once.
Stick to Routines
Consistency is the most reassuring factor for pets. Feed them at the same times, walk them on their usual schedule, and maintain bedtime routines. Familiarity builds security, which speeds up adjustment.
Explore the Neighborhood Together
For dogs, daily walks are not just about exercise—they’re about exploration. Let them sniff around, meet neighbors, and gradually map out their territory. This builds confidence and helps them recognize the new area as home.
Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them
Even with preparation, pets may face hurdles after the move. Knowing what to expect helps you manage them effectively.
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Separation Anxiety: Pets may become more attached after a move. Start by leaving them for short periods, then gradually increase the time until they’re comfortable again.
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Accidents Indoors: House-trained pets might forget routines in a new space. Be patient and reinforce training through praise and consistency.
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Excessive Noise or Vocalisation: Barking or meowing more than usual is common. Avoid scolding—comfort them instead and allow time to adjust.
These challenges usually improve with patience and reassurance.
Why Work with Professionals Who Understand
Moving with pets is less stressful when you have reliable help. Anber Movers, an experienced Montreal moving company, understands the complexities of relocating families with pets. When movers handle the packing, loading, and transportation of your belongings, you’re free to focus on what matters most—keeping your pets calm and cared for.
Benefits of choosing professionals include:
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Careful handling of fragile items and heavy furniture
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Timely and organized transportation, saving you stress
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More energy and attention left for your pets’ needs
When every detail of your move is handled properly, both you and your pets feel the difference.
While some families consider handling everything themselves, working with professionals saves time and reduces stress. If you’re weighing your options, check out our guide on Residential Movers vs DIY Moving: Which Is Better?.
Final Thoughts
Moving with pets isn’t just about logistics—it’s about compassion. Your pets rely on you to guide them through change with patience and love. By preparing early, maintaining routines, and working with experienced movers, you can create a transition that feels safe and manageable.
Anber Movers, your trusted Montreal moving company, is committed to helping families settle in without unnecessary stress. With the right planning, your pets will soon feel as comfortable in their new home as they did in the old one.
Finding the right moving team makes all the difference for both you and your pets. Make sure you avoid the most frequent pitfalls by reading Avoid These 10 Common Mistakes When Hiring Residential Movers.”
Ready to Make Your Move Easier?
At Anber Movers, we focus on making moving day smoother for families and their pets. Our reliable moving services allow you to dedicate more time to caring for your furry companions while we handle the heavy lifting.
👉 Book your move with us today and step into your new home with less stress.