Paws, Prepare, Move: A Complete Checklist for Moving with Pets

Moving with pets is smoother when you plan ahead, keep routines steady, and pack a dedicated pet kit for the road. Use this step-by-step checklist to reduce stress for you and your animals from the first planning week to the first days in your new home.

4–6 weeks before

Book a vet visit for a wellness check, vaccination updates, and travel certificates if required for flights or cross-border moves.
Request copies of medical records, prescriptions, and a recent photo of your pet for identification.
Update microchip registration and order a new ID tag with your mobile number and future city or ZIP code.
Research travel options: car, airline pet policies, pet-friendly hotels, or professional pet transport services.
Measure for a well-ventilated, carrier-approved crate; begin crate training with treats and short calm sessions.
Create a moving plan for each pet type (dog, cat, small mammal, bird, reptile, fish) noting temperature needs and handling.

1 week before

Confirm travel bookings, crate dimensions, and any airline or border health document requirements.
Freeze a small supply of familiar water if your pet is sensitive to changes; pack a collapsible bowl.
Prepare comfort items with familiar scents (used blanket or T-shirt) to reduce anxiety.
Arrange a sitter or closed-door room for loading day so pets are secure and can’t slip out.
Label and set aside the pet Go Bag so it does not go on the moving truck.

2–3 weeks before

Build a pet “Go Bag” you’ll keep with you: 3–7 days of food, water, bowls, leash/harness, waste bags, litter and tray, scoop, bedding, blanket, favorite toys, meds, first-aid kit, cleaning wipes, towels, and enzyme cleaner.
Refill prescriptions and preventive meds (flea, tick, heartworm) and set reminders for doses on the road.
Pet-proof the new home plan: identify a quiet “landing room” for first days, confirm window screens, remove hazards, and prepare a safe zone for litter or potty breaks.
Introduce moving supplies slowly so boxes and tape smells feel normal, not alarming.

Moving day

Exercise and feed lightly several hours before movers arrive to reduce nerves and motion discomfort.
Secure pets in a quiet room with door sign “Pets Inside – Do Not Open,” or have them off-site with a sitter.
Use a well-fitted harness and leash for transfers; transport pets in secured carriers only.
Keep meds, water, paper towels, waste bags, and wipes accessible for en‑route stops and accidents.
For long drives, schedule regular rest breaks; never leave pets in a parked car unattended.

Travel tips by pet type

Dogs: Car harness or secured crate, window shade, regular breaks, and a familiar blanket for calm.
Cats: Covered carrier for darkness and quiet, spare litter tray, and a towel over the carrier to limit visual stress.
Small mammals: Stable temperature, chew safe items, and secure carriers away from drafts.
Birds: Perch-secured travel cage, light cover to reduce stimuli, steady temperature, and gentle handling.
Reptiles: Maintain warmth with heat packs as needed, ventilated containers, and avoid direct sun exposure.
Fish: For short moves, use sealed fish bags in insulated containers; for longer moves, rehome temporarily or consult a specialty shipper.

On arrival

Unpack pet essentials first and set up the landing room with food, water, bed, toys, and litter/potty area.
Re-establish routine immediately: feeding times, walks, play, and quiet time in the same order as before.
Supervise exploration room-by-room; block escape paths and check fences and gates before outdoor time.
Schedule a new local vet, transfer records, and note the nearest emergency clinic.
Monitor appetite, litter/potty habits, and behavior; allow extra patience as stress resolves.

Special considerations

Temperature safety: Plan climate control for animals sensitive to heat/cold during transit and stops.
Regulations: Check breed, species, or vaccination rules for condos, HOAs, rentals, airlines, and regions.
Cleaning and odors: Pack enzyme cleaner and spare bedding to manage accidents without stress.

How A to B Moving Ma can help

Guidance on packing pet items and setting aside a secure room on move day.
Suggestions for local donation or disposal of worn pet gear and safe recycling options.
Coordination tips for timing, access, and parking so your pet’s routine faces minimal disruption.