Moving house is stressful enough for humans – for pets, it can be even more unsettling. Cats and dogs thrive on routine, and a house move turns their whole world upside down overnight. With a little planning, though, you can keep your pet calm, safe and settled throughout the process.

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Before Moving Day: Prepare Your Pet Early

Pets pick up on change long before moving day arrives. Boxes appearing around the house, furniture disappearing and a change in your own stress levels are all signals they notice.

• Introduce boxes gradually – Let your pet get used to packing boxes around the house rather than having them appear all at once.
• Book a vet check-up – Especially important for older pets or longer moves. Ask about travel sickness remedies if you have a nervous traveller.
• Research your new area – Find a local vet near your new home in London before you move, so you are not searching in an emergency.
• Check tenancy or lease terms – If you are renting, confirm in writing that pets are allowed at the new property.

Booking Your Move: What to Ask Your Removal Company

Not every removals company plans around pets, so it is worth asking a few questions when you book:

• Can the move be scheduled so your pet can stay with a friend, family member or pet-sitter for the day?
• Will the crew be mindful of doors being left open during loading and unloading?
• Is there flexibility if your pet needs a calmer, less rushed moving day?

At Van Moving Specialists, our crews are experienced with house moves across London and happy to work around a pet-friendly plan, just let us know when you book.

On Moving Day: Keep Your Pet Safe

Moving day is when accidents are most likely to happen – open front doors, stacked boxes and unfamiliar people in the house are all hazards for a curious or anxious pet.

• Set up a safe room – Choose one room that is cleared early and keep your pet there with water, bedding and toys while the rest of the house is being packed and loaded.
• Put a sign on the door – A simple note reminding the removal team and family members not to open that door helps prevent an escape.
• Avoid feeding right before travel – For car journeys, a light meal well in advance helps prevent travel sickness.
• Keep essentials handy – Pack a small moving day bag with food, water, medication, a lead and familiar bedding so you are not digging through boxes on arrival.

Settling Into Your New Home

The first few days in a new home matter just as much as moving day itself.

• Pet-proof before you relax – Check garden fencing and boundaries for gaps before letting your dog out unsupervised.
• Update microchip and ID tags – Change your address as soon as possible in case your pet slips out while exploring unfamiliar surroundings.
• Register with a local vet – Have this done in the first week so you are covered if anything comes up.
• Stick to routine – Keep feeding times, walks and bedtime as close to normal as possible to help your pet settle faster.

How Van Moving Specialists Can Help

• Flexible weekday availability across London, Kent and Surrey
• Crews happy to work around a pet-friendly moving plan
• Transparent pricing, no hidden fees
• Over 71 five-star Google reviews

Planning a move with a pet in tow? Get a free quote today and let us know your pet-friendly requirements when you book.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I keep my pet away during the move?

Yes – the safest option is a quiet room away from the activity, or arranging for a friend or pet-sitter to look after them for the day.

How do I stop my cat or dog running away on moving day?

Keep them in a separate, clearly marked room while doors are open for loading, and make sure their collar, tag and microchip details are up to date beforehand.

When should I update my pet microchip details?

As soon as possible after moving in, ideally within the first few days, in case they slip out while exploring the new home.

Do removal companies charge extra for pet-friendly moves?

Not with Van Moving Specialists, just mention it when you book so we can plan the day around your pet.

For more moving tips, read our guide: Removal Companies Near Me: The Complete Guide.