Planning Ahead — 4–6 Weeks Before the Move
- Vet check-up: Book a pre-move vet check. Ensure vaccinations, microchip, and flea/worm treatments are up to date. Update your pet's microchip registration with your new address.
- Research new vets: Register with a vet near your new home before you move. Don't wait until your pet needs care.
- ID tags: Order new ID tags with your new address. Your pet's tag must display your surname and address under the Control of Dogs Order 1992.
- Research pet regulations: If you're moving to a flat or rented property, check the tenancy agreement — some prohibit or restrict pets.
Moving Day with Dogs
Dogs can become extremely anxious on moving day due to the disruption, loud noises, and strangers entering the home:
Keep Them Separated
Confine your dog to one quiet room while loading takes place. Put a sign on the door to ensure removal staff don't accidentally let them out.
Consider a Minder
Ask a friend or family member to look after your dog on moving day, or use a professional dog sitter. This removes the risk of escape or distress.
Car Travel
Under the Highway Code, dogs must be properly restrained in vehicles. Use a harness, crate, or dog guard. Never leave a dog unattended in a hot car.
Settling In
Set up your dog's bed, toys, and familiar items in their designated area first. Walk the local area with them on a lead initially while they learn the new smells.
Moving Day with Cats
Cats are highly territorial and are often more distressed by moves than dogs. They can also be an escape risk in a chaotic house:
- Confine early: Put your cat in a secure room with their carrier, food, water, and litter tray the night before or early on moving day.
- Carrier comfort: Spray the carrier with Feliway (synthetic feline pheromone) 30 minutes before travel — this helps reduce travel anxiety.
- First room: When you arrive at your new home, set up one quiet room with all your cat's familiar items first. Keep them in this room for the first 24–48 hours.
- Keep them in: Keep cats indoors for at least 2–3 weeks after moving. Cats let out too early often try to return to their old home — sometimes travelling miles.
- Introduce outside gradually: When you do let them out, start with supervised short sessions in the garden before allowing free roaming.
Moving with Small Animals and Birds
Rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters, birds, and reptiles all require specific consideration:
| Pet | Key Considerations |
|---|---|
| Rabbits | Keep cool, dark, and quiet. Cover the carrier. Hay and water available during transit. Don't move in extreme heat. |
| Guinea pigs | Very susceptible to temperature extremes. Keep between 18–24°C. Avoid loud music in the car. |
| Hamsters | Move their cage last — try to minimise disruption to their habitat. Keep temperature stable. |
| Birds | Cover the cage during transit to reduce stress. Avoid draughts. Check weather — birds are sensitive to temperature changes. |
| Fish | Use specialist fish transport bags. Move in insulated cool boxes. Acclimatise carefully. Short moves only in existing water. |
| Reptiles | Temperature regulation is critical. Use heated travel boxes. Contact a reptile vet for advice on your specific species. |
Updating Your Pet's Records
After moving, make sure you update:
- Microchip registration (Petlog, Microchip Central, or Animal Tracker)
- Vet practice registration — transfer records to new vet
- Pet insurance policy address details
- Dog ID tag (new address)
- Any pet-related council licences (e.g., dog licence in Northern Ireland)
🐾 Microchip update: Since 2016, all dogs in England, Scotland, and Wales must be microchipped. From June 2024, cats must also be microchipped in England. Update your registration whenever your address changes — you could face a fine of up to £500 for non-compliance.