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Our Guide To: Moving with Pets 

If you are soon to be moving house and have a four-legged friend in tow, read this article for our top tips on making the transition go as smoothly as possible for them. 
Moving house can be a busy time, so it is important to plan ahead for your pets to make sure the process is as stress-free as possible. Animals are more intuitive than we give them credit for, so can often sense that change is on the horizon (hint: piles of boxes all over the house!). You may find that they become unsettled in the process of moving house, so here we offer our top tips on getting them settled in as quickly as possible. 

Register at a vet - ahead of the move make sure you have your pet registered at a local vet. The last thing you want during a busy house-move is a poorly dog and no where to take him! If your pet is microchipped, get the details updated with your new address before you move, just in case they go for a wander. Likewise, update the address on your pet’s collar. 

Create a dedicated room for your pet - keep a room free of boxes and packing chaos for moving day so that there is a secure and tranquil space for your pet. Keep their normal bed, food and toys in there for a sense of normality. They won’t be disturbed by the removal team which should help keep them calm. 

Make alternative arrangements - your pet may prefer to go and stay with a friend or family member during the move period. That way, you can focus on the move and your furry-friend can have a relaxing break!

Leave your pet until last - if possible, unpack and arrange furniture before introducing your pet into your new home. Waiting until the house is quiet and calm, and full of familiar furniture can help keep them relaxed. Show them where their bed,  food and water bowls are as they may feel a little disoriented at first. 

Dogs and cats - will adapt differently to new places. Try to keep your dog calm and explore your new home and garden slowly and at their pace. It may be wise to keep them on a lead in the garden until you know it is definitely secure. Cats can often be less receptive to new places, so keep them inside for a few weeks until they are used to their new environment. When they do venture out, leave something outside with a familiar scent (e.g. a pair of shoes) so that they can smell their way home. 


Moving house can be a stressful time for us, and can be very confusing for pets who don’t understand what is going on. Every pet is different and some may take longer to adjust to a new environment. Give them plenty of attention and reassurance during this period. With proper planning and care, you can ensure a smooth transition to your new home for your entire family. 

At By Design, we are committed to helping you find the perfect home for all of your family members, including the furry ones. Contact us today to learn more about our pet-friendly properties and moving tips.