How to Help Your Pets Settle In Smoothly with Hercules Moving Company
Moving is a lot. Between packing boxes, updating your address, and trying to keep everything organized, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. And if you’ve got pets? That adds a whole new layer. You’re not just uprooting your life—you’re shaking up theirs too.
At Hercules Moving Company, we get it. We’ve helped many folks around Columbus make big moves, and plenty of them had cats hiding under beds or dogs pacing nervously while the truck got loaded. So we’ve seen firsthand how stressful it can be for animals when their whole world gets flipped upside down.
This guide is for people like you—pet owners who want to make the move as smooth as possible for their furry (or feathery or scaly) family members. We’ll walk you through what to do before, during, and after your move so your pet stays safe, calm, and comfortable.
Let’s dive in.
Step One: Start Early and Ease Them In
The best way to keep your pet calm is to avoid surprises. Most pets notice change immediately, so when boxes start showing up, and routines go out the window, they pick up on it quickly.
Here’s how to help them feel a little more secure:
- Take a trip to the vet. Before the move, make sure your pet is up to date on shots and has enough medication if they need it. If you’re leaving Columbus, ask your vet for copies of records and referrals in your new town.
- Update their ID info. This one’s simple but easy to forget. Ensure your pet’s tags and microchip have your new address and phone number, just in case they slip out during the chaos.
- Let them get used to the chaos. If your dog hates the sound of tape or your cat freaks out at boxes, introduce those things gradually. Give them time to adjust.
Sticking to your normal routine—meals, walks, cuddle time—can also make a big difference in keeping them grounded.
Step Two: Packing with Pets in Mind
As you get closer to moving day, it helps to make a “pet essentials” bag. It’s kind of like an overnight bag, but for them. Here’s what to throw in:
- Food and treats
- Water and bowls
- Favorite toy or blanket
- Leash or carrier
- Medications
- Litter box or waste bags
You don’t want to dig through ten boxes to find the squeaky toy that keeps your dog calm or your cat engaged.
On moving day, it’s usually better for your pet to be out of the action. If a friend or family member can watch them—or you can drop them at daycare for the day—that’ll help keep them calm and out of the movers’ way.
If they must stay home, set up a quiet room with their bed, some toys, and a “do not open” sign for the door. Keep them in there while the heavy lifting happens.
Step Three: The Move Itself
Traveling with pets depends a lot on how far you’re going.
A short car ride should do the trick if you’re staying local around Columbus. Keep your pet in a secure crate or buckled in with a harness. Windows down a little for air, and maybe some calming music if they’re nervous.
If you’re going long-distance, plan your route with rest stops where your dog can stretch or your cat can drink water. For nervous pets, talk to your vet about calming sprays or mild sedatives (make sure you test them out before the big day).
Don’t forget to avoid feeding your pet a big meal right before driving. No one wants to deal with car sickness.
Step Four: Settling In at the New Place
Once you’re in your new home, take a deep breath—and then help your pet do the same.
Start by pet-proofing the space. Check for loose wires, open vents, or anything small they could swallow. Then, they pick a room to set up their “safe zone” with all their familiar stuff—bed, bowls, toys, and the works.
Stick to their regular schedule as much as possible for walks, feeding, and playtime.
And if you’re staying in Columbus, there are some great places to explore with your pet. A few of our favorites:
- Scioto Audubon Metro Park – Big trails and wide open space
- Goodale Park – Great for dog-walking near downtown
- Columbus Dog Park at Godown Road – Perfect for off-leash fun
Also, now’s a good time to find a local vet, groomer, and pet store if you’re in a new part of town. Feel free to ask our team at Hercules Moving Company—we’ve gotten to know many of the neighborhoods around here, and we’re happy to share some local recs.
A Few Final Tips
- Be patient. Pets take time to adjust.
- Keep an eye out for changes in appetite, energy, or behavior—those can be signs of stress.
- Don’t forget to give them lots of love and attention during the transition. They’re looking to you for reassurance.
How Hercules Moving Company Can Help
We know how important it is to protect every part of your life when you move—including your pets. That’s why we work hard to keep things calm, organized, and stress-free for the whole family.
When handling your move, we’re careful with the little things that matter—like keeping pet supplies easy to reach and ensuring nothing blocks your pet’s safe space. We’ve worked with families across Columbus who have dogs, cats, birds, and even the occasional guinea pig, and we know how to plan a smooth transition for everyone involved. Drop us a line today and get a free moving quote so we can make your next move easy for all your family members—not just the human ones!
