Moving abroad with pets can be one of the most stressful parts of relocating.
If you’re a pet owner, we’ve put together this full guide for you. From preparation to settling in, we’ll share what we’ve learned from our 10 years of helping Australians move with their pets, so you and your pet feel ready every step of the way.
Let’s start with the most important step: early preparation.
Start with Preparation
Relocating with pets isn’t something you want to leave until the last minute. The earlier you start, the smoother it’ll be for both of you. Pets thrive on routine, so sudden changes without preparation can cause serious stress.
Let’s walk through the preparation steps that will make a real difference for your pet’s wellbeing.
1. Start with a Vet Visit
Your first step should always be a check-up. A vet visit ensures your pet is healthy enough to travel and helps you meet the health requirements for your new location.
What to do:
- Ask your vet to update vaccinations, especially rabies if you’re moving interstate or overseas.
- Request a health certificate if your destination requires it. Many do, and some airlines will not allow your pet to travel without one.
- Discuss calming options, like pheromone sprays or mild sedatives, for anxious pets.
Case in Point: If you’re moving from Brisbane to Auckland, New Zealand law requires a veterinary-issued export certificate, microchipping, and parasite treatment with specific timing.
Tip: Schedule this visit at least four to six weeks before your move to allow time for follow-ups or required tests.
2. Train for the Crate or Carrier
When moving, your pet’s crate becomes their safe space during this stressful time. Making it familiar in advance helps reduce fear and panic on moving day.
What to do:
- Leave the crate open in a familiar space for a few weeks before travel.
- Line it with a blanket or shirt that smells like you.
- Feed them treats or meals inside to create a positive connection.
A cat that’s used to roaming freely may panic when shut into a carrier. Starting early and making the crate part of their routine turns it into a comfort zone instead.
3. Prepare the Paperwork
There are several documents you need, depending on where you’re going. This could include your ID or vaccination certificate. We’ll discuss this in more detail in a later section.
Here’s a brief checklist:
- Updated microchip registration
- Clearly visible ID tag with your mobile number
- Vaccination certificates
- Import permits or pet passports if moving overseas
Case in Point: In some countries, like Singapore, require a rabies antibody titre test at least three months before arrival, plus a quarantine booking well in advance.
Tip: Keep all documents in one folder, and back them up digitally using a tool like Google Drive or Dropbox.
4. Research Your New Neighbourhood
Getting to know your new area before you arrive makes the transition less jarring for both of you. Understanding local rules and pet-friendly options means fewer surprises and a faster adjustment.
What to look for:
- Pet registration requirements for your council
- Emergency and routine veterinary clinics nearby
- Local dog parks, walking tracks, or off-leash areas
If you’re moving from a house to an apartment, knowing where your dog can safely exercise will help prevent restlessness and anxiety in the first few weeks.
5. Pack a Pet Essentials Kit
Your pet needs their own bag, just like you do. Having their essentials in one place ensures comfort and routine during the disruption of moving day.
Pack separately:
- Food and bowls
- Water bottle
- Favourite toy or comfort blanket
- Medications or supplements
- Lead, collar, and cleaning supplies
Tip: Keep this kit with you in the car, not in the moving truck, so it’s always accessible.
When you take the time to prepare, you’re giving your pet emotional security in a moment of uncertainty. They may not understand the move, but they will feel your effort to keep them safe and calm.
Now that the groundwork is in place, it’s time to focus on the big day. In the next section, we’ll guide you through exactly how to manage moving day logistics to reduce stress and avoid setbacks.
Moving Day Logistics: Keeping Pets Safe and Calm
You’ve done the prep, sorted the paperwork, and your pet is familiar with their crate. Now it’s moving day, and this is when pets are most likely to get scared, confused, or bolt out the door.
Loud noises, open doors, and unusual activity can cause even the calmest pets to panic. The right strategies on this day can make a big difference to how safely and calmly they experience the move.
Here’s how to support them from start to finish.
Set Up a Safe Zone
On moving day, your home will be full of unfamiliar noise and open doors, which is a dangerous mix for pets. To protect them and keep them calm, give them a secure, quiet space that stays undisturbed while the action unfolds.
Here’s some ideas:
- A closed room with their crate, food, water, and bedding
- A bathroom or laundry with minimal foot traffic
- Off-site care with a pet sitter or family member they trust
Add a note on the door saying “Do Not Open. Pet Inside” to prevent any accidental escapes.
Many dog owners report that crating their dog in a closed room with soft music playing reduces pacing, barking, and agitation during the packing process.
Pack a Pet Go-Bag
Having a dedicated pet essentials bag means you won’t have to scramble through boxes to find what your pet needs during or after the move. Keep it close to you during the journey, just like you would your own overnight bag.
Essentials to include:
- Food and treats in sealed containers
- Portable water bottle and bowls
- Any daily medication or supplements
- Collar, ID tag, and lead or harness
- Waste bags, litter tray, or pee pads
- Comfort items: a well-loved toy, favourite blanket, or piece of your clothing
Tip: If your move is multi-day or includes a stopover, pack enough supplies for the entire trip plus one extra day, just in case of delays.
Stick to Familiar Routines
If our experience has taught us anything, it’s that pets take their routines seriously. Even on moving day, try to keep meals, toilet breaks, and playtime close to their usual schedule.
Why it matters: Skipping meals or delaying walks can increase stress and result in upset stomachs, accidents, or restlessness.
How to do it:
- Feed your pet at the usual time, ideally a few hours before the move starts
- Keep walks short but timely
- Set aside 10–15 minutes for one-on-one attention, especially for sensitive pets
A quick morning walk before the chaos starts can help your dog burn nervous energy and make them more relaxed during travel.
Safe and Comfortable Travel
Whether by car or plane, travel can be unsettling for pets if they are not properly secured or prepared. Making sure your furry friend is comfortable and safe on the journey is just as important as packing boxes and loading the van.
If driving:
- Use a crash-tested crate or secure your pet with a pet seatbelt harness
- Keep the temperature cool and never leave them unattended in the vehicle
- Avoid large meals before departure to prevent nausea
- Stop every few hours for toilet and water breaks
If flying:
- Choose direct flights when possible to reduce handling and transfers
- Crate should meet IATA standards with clear labels and your contact info
- Include absorbent bedding and freeze a small dish of water to melt gradually
- Confirm drop-off and pick-up locations with your airline ahead of time
Pro tip: Print two copies of your pet’s documentation and tape one securely to the crate in a waterproof pouch, just in case you’re separated during the journey.
Use Calming Aids if Needed
If your pet is particularly nervous or has reacted poorly to change before, consider calming tools to ease the transition. These should never be used for the first time on moving day, so test any products in the days or weeks before.
Here’s some options:
- Pheromone sprays or plug-ins (Adaptil for dogs, Feliway for cats)
- ThunderShirts or calming wraps
- Herbal chews or drops with ingredients like chamomile or L-tryptophan
- Vet-prescribed sedatives or anti-anxiety meds for severe cases
A dog with separation anxiety might respond well to a ThunderShirt combined with lavender-scented sprays. Always check with your vet before using anything new.
If your relocation plans include another country, there are extra steps to consider. Vaccination schedules, import permits, and airline rules can quickly complicate things if you’re not prepared. The next section covers the essential details of international pet relocation so you can plan with confidence and avoid costly mistakes.
Crossing Borders: The Realities of International Pet Relocation
Every country has its own import rules, required paperwork, and timelines. If you don’t plan early, your pet could face long quarantine periods, travel delays, or even entry denial.
The good news is that with the right steps and support, international pet relocation is manageable and safe.
We’ve briefly touched on some requirements earlier. So, here’s everything you need to know when your pet is travelling internationally:
Start Planning Months in Advance
International pet relocation requires more lead time than most people expect. Many countries need documentation and vaccinations completed weeks or months before your travel date.
Key steps to begin early:
- Research import rules for your destination country
- Check vaccination schedules, including any required rabies titre tests
- Make appointments for microchipping and vet certification
- Schedule parasite treatments that fall within specific timeframes
- Apply for import permits where needed
It is also important to note that airlines often suspend pet travel during extreme temperatures to protect animals from heatstroke or hypothermia while in transit. Most major carriers follow temperature guidelines that prohibit pet transport if the departure or arrival airport is forecasted to exceed 29°C (85°F) or drop below 7°C (45°F) within a few hours of the flight.
Understand the Documents You’ll Need
Paperwork is the most common source of problems during international moves. Without the right forms, your pet may be refused entry or placed in extended quarantine.
Typical documents include:
- An up-to-date vaccination certificate, signed by your vet
- An official health certificate, often issued within ten days of travel
- Microchip registration showing ISO-compliant chip details
- Import permit or pet passport
- Proof of pre-travel parasite treatments
Pro tip: Always travel with printed copies and digital backups of each document. Keep one set with you and another attached securely to the crate in a waterproof pouch.
Know Your Airline’s Pet Travel Policies
Airline rules can vary. Some allow small pets in the cabin, while others only allow pets in the cargo hold. Crate dimensions, weight limits, and ventilation requirements are often strict and non-negotiable.
To prepare:
- Book flights directly with the airline and ask about their live animal policy
- Choose direct flights when possible to reduce travel time and transfers
- Use a crate that meets International Air Transport Association (IATA) guidelines
- Label the crate clearly with your name, phone number, and destination details
Case in Point: If you are flying from Australia to Europe, your pet must often travel as manifest cargo. This means they will be booked and handled differently from checked baggage and need a cargo-specific airway bill.
Consider Using a Pet Relocation Service
International pet relocation services specialise in handling all the logistics. They know what paperwork is required, how to navigate airline policies, and how to coordinate with quarantine stations if needed.
What they can do for you:
- Manage veterinary appointments and paperwork timelines
- Arrange IATA-compliant travel crates
- Book flights and coordinate with customs officials
- Escort your pet to and from airports, or even provide home pickup and delivery
If you’re feeling overwhelmed by strict import laws or language barriers at your destination, a reputable pet relocation company can take that burden off your shoulders and reduce the risk of errors.
Prepare for Quarantine Requirements
Some countries, especially those free from rabies, require pets to be quarantined after arrival. The length and conditions of quarantine vary widely.
Before you go:
- Check if your destination has mandatory quarantine
- Book a space at the approved facility in advance
- Understand what items (bedding, toys) you can send with your pet
- Find out if you can visit your pet during quarantine
Australia does not require quarantine for pets coming from certain approved countries if all conditions are met. However, a single missed vaccination can trigger a ten-day minimum stay in quarantine.
The move might be over, but now comes the important part: helping your pet settle into their new home. Their stress may not end with the trip, so it’s important to guide them through this final step with patience and routine.
Up next, we’ll cover how to help your pet settle in after the move, reconnect with their surroundings, and feel truly at home again.
Post-Move Recovery: Helping Your Pet Settle In
Once you arrive at your new home, the real work begins. From our experience, it takes about a month for pets to adjust fully. Simple steps like putting their bed in a quiet corner or keeping familiar things like their food bowl can make a big difference.
Here’s some of our team’s favorite tips and suggestions:
Recreate Familiarity Quickly
One of the best ways to help your pet feel at home is to surround them with familiar items. This helps rebuild a sense of routine and comfort after a long, confusing journey.
Set up right away:
- Place their bed in a quiet corner
- Offer toys or blankets that smell like their old home
- Use their regular food and feeding bowls
- Keep their crate or sleeping area in a low-traffic zone
Tip: Try to arrange their space as similarly as possible to how it was before the move. Familiar layout cues can reduce confusion.
Re-establish Routines
Pets feel safest when their world is predictable. Now that you’re in your new home, start reintroducing daily patterns as soon as possible.
Focus on:
- Feeding times
- Walks or outdoor breaks
- Play sessions and attention
- Toilet routines, especially for young or anxious pets
For instance, a dog that is used to being walked at 7am will adjust more quickly if you maintain that schedule, even in a new suburb.
Introduce the New Home Gradually
Let your pet explore the new environment at their own pace. Opening the entire house at once can be overwhelming, especially for cats or small animals.
How to do it:
- Start with one room, then open access slowly
- Supervise initial exploration, especially near exits or balconies
- Keep doors and windows secure until your pet is fully adjusted
Tip: For cats, it’s best to keep them indoors for at least two weeks before allowing any supervised outdoor time.
Update Local Registrations and Vet Records
Moving to a new area usually means new legal requirements for pet ownership. Registering your pet and finding a new vet helps ensure their safety and health from day one.
Checklist:
- Register your pet with the local council
- Book a meet-and-greet with a nearby vet
- Transfer microchip records to your new address
- Ask about local parks, pet laws, and any restrictions in your area
Tip: Some councils offer discounted registration fees if your pet is desexed and microchipped, so updating those details can save money.
Watch for Behavioural Changes
It’s normal for pets to act a little differently in a new space. Some may cling to you, while others may hide or vocalise more than usual. These behaviours often resolve within a few weeks as they adapt.
Watch for signs of:
- Loss of appetite
- Excessive pacing, scratching, or barking
- Accidents in the house
- Withdrawal or excessive hiding
If these issues persist beyond a few weeks, or seem severe, consult your vet for support or consider a pet behaviour specialist.
Species-Specific Tips: Not Just Cats and Dogs
Cats and dogs might be the most common travel companions, but they’re not the only ones making a move. Birds, reptiles, and small mammals also need thoughtful planning and species-specific care during relocation.
These pets are often more sensitive to changes in environment, temperature, and handling, so a tailored approach is essential.
Here’s how to manage the move safely for some of the less common, but just as loved, members of the family.
Birds: Sensitive to Temperature and Stress
Birds are delicate animals that react strongly to stress and environmental changes. Sudden shifts in light, temperature, or handling can lead to health issues or even injury.
Tips for safe relocation:
- Use a well-ventilated, secure travel cage that is small enough to prevent excessive movement but large enough for comfort
- Cover the cage lightly with a cloth to block overstimulation, but ensure airflow
- Avoid loud noises and drafty spots during transport
- Keep temperature between 20 and 25 degrees Celsius to prevent distress
- Remove hanging toys and swinging perches during travel to avoid injury
For a parrot, removing food bowls during travel and offering small pieces of fruit after arrival can prevent motion sickness and encourage hydration.
Reptiles: Temperature and Humidity Are Critical
Reptiles are cold-blooded and depend on external temperatures to regulate their body functions. Moving them requires strict control of heat and humidity to prevent shock or illness.
How to relocate safely:
- Use a secure plastic tub or breathable cloth bag placed inside an insulated container
- Include heat packs if travelling in cool weather, but wrap them safely to avoid burns
- Avoid exposing reptiles to direct sun or cold air
- Do not feed reptiles on the day of the move to prevent regurgitation
Tip: Transport your reptile’s habitat separately and set it up before arrival so they can return to their regular environment quickly.
Small Mammals: Comfort and Quiet Are Key
Rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters, and similar pets are highly sensitive to stress. Fast movement, loud sounds, or temperature changes can cause panic or even health emergencies.
Best practices for small mammal relocation:
- Use a well-ventilated, rigid carrier with soft bedding to absorb movement
- Place the carrier in a quiet part of the car away from loud noises
- Cover with a light towel to create a dark, calming environment
- Monitor temperature closely and avoid extreme heat or cold
- Bring along fresh vegetables or hay for longer trips to keep them occupied
Rabbits can overheat easily. Keep them in a cool, shaded area during travel and avoid leaving them in a parked car even for a few minutes.
If you’re unsure how to move your exotic pet, speak to a vet with experience in that species or contact a professional pet transport company that handles non-traditional animals. Some transport companies specialise in moving birds, reptiles, and exotic pets and can guide you through permits, temperature control, and safety.
Next, we’ll move into a quick roundup of common relocation questions and mistakes. These answers can help you avoid last-minute stress and give you peace of mind on your moving journey.
FAQs and Common Mistakes to Avoid
By this point, you’re likely well on your way to a successful move with your pet. Still, there are a few questions that come up often and a few common missteps that catch even experienced pet owners off guard. Let’s clear them up.
Frequently Asked Questions
What paperwork do I need to travel with my pet?
Most moves require a current vaccination record, a signed health certificate from your vet, and microchip proof. For international travel, you may also need an import permit and evidence of recent parasite treatments.
Can my pet travel in the plane cabin with me?
Small pets may be allowed in the cabin if they fit in a carrier under the seat, but this depends on the airline and destination country. Larger pets usually need to travel as checked baggage or cargo. Always confirm with the airline and book early.
How far in advance should I plan an international pet move?
Ideally, begin planning at least three to six months ahead. Countries like Japan, New Zealand, and Singapore often have requirements that span several months, including blood tests and advance quarantine bookings.
What can I do if my pet is nervous about travel?
Start crate training weeks in advance. Practice short trips in the car. For anxious animals, consider pheromone sprays, calming chews, or medication prescribed by your vet after a discussion.
Should I hire a pet relocation service?
If your move involves international travel or complex paperwork, a professional service can handle logistics, reduce stress, and help you avoid costly mistakes. For local moves, it may not be necessary unless your pet has special needs.
Mistakes That Could Complicate Your Move
Even experienced pet owners can run into trouble on moving day. Here are the most common missteps to avoid:
- Using the wrong-sized crate can get your pet denied at the airport.
- Missing vaccination deadlines can lead to quarantine or refusal of entry.
- Forgetting to check your pet’s microchip can delay identification.
- Letting pets roam the new home too soon increases escape risks.
- Delaying registration with your new council can result in fines.
They Deserve a Smooth Move Too, And You’ve Made It Happen
The hardest part of any move is getting started. Now, you’re ready to take the next steps with calm, care, and confidence. Whether you’re weeks away or already mid-move, everything you do now will help your pet feel safe and supported.
That steady presence is what makes all the difference. A new environment, new routines, and fresh sounds may take time to adjust to, but the foundation is already strong. Small comforts and steady routines will help your pets settle, grow confident, and find their place in this new home.
Remember to:
- Start early and take it step by step
- Keep essentials close and routines steady
- Make the crate a safe and familiar space
- Stay calm and reassuring during the move
- Introduce the new home gradually
- Update local records and find nearby support
These small, deliberate choices created a sense of safety and stability when everything else was changing.
After all, moving is about bringing what matters with you. That includes your pet, and thanks to your planning, they will settle in, step by step.