Check out your new place

If your new landlord’s happy for you to pop by before you move in, take your dog along, too – it’s the perfect chance to show off your pet’s impeccable manners! Some pet-owners even write a ‘pet CV’ for their landlord – include your vet’s contact details, your pet’s most recent vaccinations and the name of a friend who can care for your pet in an emergency. And while you’re in the area, why not explore some local walks and parks together?

Make plans in advance for moving day

Your best bet is to find a familiar friend or relative who can look after your cat or dog on moving day. But if you can’t find a willing pair of hands, do some research on local catteries, kennels and pet-sitters – either near your current home, or close to your new one. 

Keep your pet in a familiar place

Some pets find catteries and kennels stressful, so a good alternative is to create a safe room. A week before you move, place your pet’s bedding, litter tray and toys in that room and spend time in there, playing with your pet. On moving day, clear that room first, warn your removals company there’s a pet in the house, and hang a ‘do not enter’ sign on the door. Don’t forget to pack your pet’s belongings last, and unpack them first.

Wave some pheromone magic

Plug-in pheromone diffusers and sprays can help to relax both cats and dogs at stressful times. Use them in your old home before you move, and for a week or so in your new home to maintain the relaxing vibes. 

Travel safely on moving day 

If you’re moving a long distance, always carry your pet in a secure crate or pet-carrier, and keep the car cool and well-ventilated. Feed your pet an hour or so before you set off, and carry a pop-up bowl, fresh water and a treat for when you arrive.

Introduce your pet to its new home 

Explore one room at a time together, and make sure your cat or dog can easily find bedding and toys that smell familiar. Keep some rewards handy as you explore.

Get your pet microchipped 

Pets get lost easily in new places, so don’t risk it. It’s also a good idea to register with a local vet in advance. And if your pet is already chipped, don’t forget to update your contact details to reflect your new address. In fact, there are a number of important places where you should update your contact details, including your bank, insurance providers, utility companies and employer, to name just a few. You can use a postal redirection service to ensure you keep receiving your mail in the meantime.

Take your time 

Keep your cat indoors for a week or so until she’s used to the new sights and smells. When you let her out for the first time, try to choose a weekend in case you have to unexpectedly go cat-hunting! Short, supervised trips are best at first. And if you time them before mealtimes, you can reward your puss for coming back home.

Lead the way 

If you have a dog, check your new garden is secure before you let him out for the first time. Keep him on a lead during walks, and try to establish some familiar routes in the early days. You could even rent a GPS tracking collar for a few weeks – most systems come with a phone app to help you find your dog quickly if he goes astray.