Moving is bad enough, but when fur babies are involved, it adds a little extra challenge to the ordeal. For humans, moving can be stressful, but for pets, the uncertainty of the event can cause anxiety which sometimes leads to bad behaviour. And as pet owners who are in the moving process, an pet that’s anxious or unwell can make a stressful situation even worse.

In order to make the process easier, here are 9 tips for moving with pets.

1. Visit the vet. A week or so before the move, bring your pet to the vet for a checkup to ensure their health is in perfect condition. You’ll also want to do it early enough to let your pet recover from the stress of visiting the vet. Healthy pets may be less prone to stress and bad behaviour during a move.

2. Scope out the ‘hood. If you’re a dog owner, take your pet for a few walks in your future neighbourhood before the move to give him an introduction to your new home. It’ll also give you the chance to find parks and trails for future walks.

3. Separate your pet from the move. Whether it’s a pet sitter, a friend who can take your pet for the day, a pet hotel or just a kennel that’s away from the chaos of the move, keep your pet separated from the moving process. This will keep your pet from seeing movers go in and out of your apartment with all your belongings – and will keep him from being underfoot while everyone’s going in and out with heavy loads.

4. Make a safe room. If a kennel is out of the question, dedicate a room to your pet for moving day. Clear your belongings out of the room first, the outfit the room so your bet will feel comfortable in there during the move. Have food and water available.

5. Go for a workout. Giving your dog lots of exercise can help reduce stress as well. Try to keep up an active routine if you’re a dog owner, especially on moving day. A long walk in the morning will help tucker out your pup so she’ll be more chill during the day.

6. Even if you’re not using a safe room, be sure to pack your pet’s things in one box and set them out before your pet comes into the house. Then, show him where his belongings are right away.

7. Make him feel at home. When you get to your new apartment, set out your pet’s toys right away. After giving your pet a tour of the new house, hand over the toys to make him feel comfortable.

8. Chill for the night. After the move, you’ll be tired and your pet will be, too. Stay in for the night. If you’re a dog owner, go out for another short walk in the evening before relaxing for the evening. Spend lots of time with your pet so she knows this is home.

9. Make friends. Find friends for your pet in your neighbourhood. It’s a good way to make your fur baby to feel at home and for you to meet new friends as well.