Moving With Dogs and Cats in Los Angeles: A Calm Moving-Day Plan
· 3 min read · By Ursa Moving
Open doors, strangers, noise and boxes everywhere: moving day is stressful for pets, and an open front door is a common way for them to get loose. A little planning keeps them safe.
Before the move
- Bring boxes out early so pets get used to them.
- Keep feeding and walking times normal.
- Update the microchip and ID tag with your new address and phone.
- If your pet gets anxious in the car or with strangers, talk to your vet ahead of time.
- Check your new lease or HOA rules for pets.
On moving day
- Best option: a friend, family member, daycare or sitter takes them for the day.
- If they stay home: pick one empty room (often a bathroom), put in water, bed, toys and a litter box, close the door, and tape a sign: "PET INSIDE – DO NOT OPEN." Tell the crew lead when they arrive.
- Pack a pet bag: food, bowls, leash, meds, waste bags, litter, a favorite blanket.
- Transport pets in your own car, never in the moving truck.
LA heat
On warm days, never leave a pet in a parked car, even for a short stop. Plan the drive so they ride with you straight to the new place.
At the new home
Set up their quiet room first with familiar items before you unpack anything else. Walk your dog around the new block on a leash. Check fences and gates in a new yard before letting them out, especially in hillside homes with open slopes.
How we help
Our crews work around a closed pet room, and we unload the pet's furniture first if you'd like. Rates: 2 movers $119/h, 3 $159/h, 4 $199/h. Get a free quote or call (213) 292-7675.
