Moving With Pets: Tips from Sioux Falls Movers to Help Your Furry Friends Settle In

At Advanced Moving in Sioux Falls, we know moving can be stressful—especially when pets are involved. Whether you're relocating with a dog, cat, bird, reptile, or something else, preparing properly can make a big difference for both you and your animal companions. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best ways to prepare pets for a move, what to do on moving day, and how to help them adjust to their new home. Plus, we’ll show you how our team can help make the entire process smoother. 



Want more? Check out additional tips on moving with cats in particular.

1. Start With a Pet-Friendly Moving Plan

Before the boxes start piling up, make a plan that includes your pets. Animals thrive on routine, so sudden changes in environment, people, and schedule can lead to anxiety or health issues.

Key steps to consider early:

• Visit the vet: Schedule a check-up to ensure your pet is healthy and up-to-date on vaccinations. Request copies of medical records and prescriptions if moving out of town.
  
  
• Update ID tags and microchips: Make sure all tags and microchip info include your new address and phone number.
  
  
• Secure pet supplies: Keep enough food, meds, toys, and comfort items to last at least a week past moving day.
  
  

2. Preparing Your Pets Before the Move

Your pet’s comfort starts with small, consistent steps. Packing can be chaotic, so ease into it gradually.

For Dogs and Cats:

• Set aside a “safe room” with familiar bedding, food, and water.
  
  
• Introduce moving boxes slowly to reduce curiosity or stress.
  
  
• Stick to your normal routine as much as possible—walks, feeding times, and play sessions.
  
  

For Birds:

• Keep the cage in a quiet, low-traffic area.
  
  
• Talk to them calmly during packing to keep their environment familiar.
  
  
• Avoid introducing too much noise or movement near their cage.
  
  

For Reptiles and Fish:

• Research travel-safe containers for transport (especially temperature-sensitive species).
  
  
• Gradually reduce feeding in the days before the move to prevent health issues during transport.
  
  
• Clean tanks and enclosures but leave some substrate to preserve familiar scents.
  
  

3. Moving Day Tips for Pet Owners

On moving day, things can get hectic—but keeping your pet calm and out of the way is a top priority.

What to Do:

• Keep pets confined to a quiet room, crate, or trusted pet sitter’s home while movers are loading and unloading.
  
  
• Use clear signage on doors if pets are in a room to prevent accidental escapes.
  
  
• Transport pets in your own vehicle if possible, not in the moving truck.
  
  
• Prepare a pet essentials bag with water, bowls, treats, leash, litter box, and familiar items.
  
  

If you’re working with the team at Advanced Moving, let us know if you have pets. We’ll coordinate with you to minimize disruptions, avoid loud equipment near sensitive pets, and safely navigate through your home without risking open doors or frightened animals.

4. Settling Into Your New Home With Pets

The first few days in a new home can feel overwhelming for animals. Help them settle in gradually.

For Dogs and Cats:

• Start with one room as a safe zone, then allow supervised exploration.
  
  
• Keep routines consistent—feed and walk them at the same times as before.
  
  
• Be patient with behavior changes like whining, hiding, or accidents. These usually resolve as they adjust.
  
  

For Birds:

• Set their cage in a familiar, well-lit area.
  
  
• Talk to them often, and avoid sudden loud noises or handling for the first couple days.
  
  
• Watch for signs of stress like feather plucking or refusal to eat.
  
  

For Reptiles and Fish:

• Set up their full enclosure immediately and monitor temperature/humidity levels.
  
  
• Minimize handling and maintain normal light and feeding cycles.
  
  
• Avoid placing them in high-traffic areas of your home.
  
  

5. How Advanced Moving Makes Pet-Friendly Moves Easier

As an experienced Sioux Falls moving company, Advanced Moving understands that every family member—including the furry or feathered ones—matters. That’s why we offer:

• Flexible scheduling to help you move around pet care needs
  
  
• Careful handling of pet-related furniture like aquariums, scratching posts, cages, and large kennels
  
  
• Tips and coordination for moving day logistics to avoid stress for pets
  
  
• Specialty moving services for heavy or fragile pet items like fish tanks and reptile enclosures
  
  

We’re happy to work with you ahead of your move to ensure a pet-friendly plan that keeps everyone safe and stress-free.

6. Final Thoughts: Making the Move Easier for You and Your Pets

Moving with pets doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right preparation and the help of a reliable moving team, you can make the transition smoother for everyone. Start planning early, stay consistent, and lean on the proven experience of professional movers like Advanced Moving in Sioux Falls to help guide the process.

Whether you're moving across town or relocating to a new part of South Dakota, we’re here to help every step of the way—two legs or four.

Need help planning your move with pets in Sioux Falls?
Contact Advanced Moving for a free quote and expert advice.