Moving is stressful for humans. For pets? It's terrifying. New smells, strangers in the house, boxes everywhere—and suddenly their favorite sunspot is packed in a truck.
Golden Rule:
REMOVE PETS FROM THE ACTION on moving day. Use daycare, a friend's house, or a closed safe room.
Before the Move (2 Weeks Out)
- Vet visit: Get medical records, refill prescriptions (30-day supply), update vaccinations
- Update microchip & tags: New address, your phone number
- Pack a pet survival kit: Food, water, bowls, meds, toys, bed, waste bags, recent photo
- Maintain routine: Keep feeding/walk times normal
Moving Day Options
Option 1: Pet Daycare
Drop off morning of, pick up after move. $30-60/day. Best for anxious pets.
Option 2: Friend/Family
Free, pet is with trusted person, less stressful than daycare.
Option 3: Closed Room
Designate one room as safe zone. Put sign on door: "DO NOT OPEN—PET INSIDE"
By Pet Type
🐕 Dogs
Exercise morning of (tired dog = calmer dog). Keep on leash when movers present. Walk new neighborhood perimeter together.
🐈 Cats
Use Feliway diffusers 1 week before. Hard carrier, covered with blanket. One room at a time in new home. Let them explore gradually over 1-2 weeks.
🐰 Small Pets (Rabbits, Birds, Reptiles)
Temperature control is critical. Minimize handling for 24-48 hours after move. Set up cage immediately in quiet room.
Seattle Pet Resources
- Emergency Vets (24/7): BluePearl Specialty, Animal Medical Center
- Off-Leash Parks: Woodland Park (huge), Golden Gardens (beach), Lincoln Park
- Pet License: Required by Seattle law ($30-50/year)
Bottom Line
Plan ahead, remove pets from moving chaos, maintain routines, and give them time to adjust. They'll settle in—just show extra patience.
Find Movers Who Are Pet-Friendly
Free quotes from Seattle movers who work calmly and carefully around pets.