If you are moving house with pets in Bristol, planning ahead can make all the difference.
Dogs, cats, rabbits and parrots are part of the family. But moving day is noisy, busy and unpredictable. As a Bristol removals company that works with pet owning families every week, we have seen how quickly stress levels can rise when there is no clear plan.
We also understand personally. Roxy is our company mascot, and Dan our Manager has two dogs at home. We know how much you want them safe and settled.
Here is how to make moving day calm, safe and drama free for everyone involved.
Why Moving Day Is Stressful for Pets During a Bristol House Move
On moving day there are:
- Doors open constantly
- Furniture being carried through tight spaces
- Removal vans loading outside
- New people moving in and out
For pets, that can feel chaotic.
Over the years we have experienced:
- Cats attempting to escape through open doors
- Dogs becoming anxious and getting under our feet
- Rabbits being moved from room to room mid move
- Owners leaving for long dog walks when decisions are needed
None of this comes from bad intentions. It simply happens when there is no clear plan.
A little preparation prevents unnecessary stress.
The Best Option When Moving With Pets in Bristol
If possible, the smoothest solution is arranging care outside the property for moving day.
Options include:
- A trusted friend or family member
- A professional pet sitter
- Doggy day care
- A cattery
Even one day away from the noise helps reduce anxiety and keeps everyone safer.
It also allows your Mason Moves Bristol removals team to work efficiently without worrying about open doors and loose pets.
Moving With Dogs on Moving Day
If your dog is staying at the property:
- Keep them secured in one agreed room
- Inform us clearly which room that is
- Ensure one adult is available if we need access
For safety reasons, dogs cannot be loose in active loading areas.
Please also avoid leaving the property for extended walks without telling us. Small decisions happen throughout the day, and we want everything positioned exactly as you prefer.
Moving With Cats on Moving Day
Cats are particularly sensitive to routine changes.
If they must remain at the property:
- Keep them in a closed, secure room
- Place a clear notice on the door
- Ensure windows are fully shut
- Have a secure carrier ready
We understand you may not want them crated all day. Having a carrier ready simply avoids panic if access is needed quickly.
Rabbits, Small Animals and Birds
When moving house with rabbits or birds in Bristol:
- Hutches must be emptied before moving day
- Rabbits should be secured away from loading zones
- Indoor cages must not be in rooms being cleared
- Bird cages should be secure and ideally covered to reduce stress
We want calm paws, steady whiskers and absolutely no ruffled feathers.
What We Do Not Transport
For hygiene and cross contamination reasons, we do not transport:
- Animals of any kind
- Litter trays
- Used hutches
- Kennels
- Outdoor runs
- Soiled pet bedding
This protects your belongings, our team, and other customers.
If you are unsure about any pet related items, please speak to us before moving day.
Our Top Moving Day Pet Tips
- Arrange outside care if possible
- Keep pets secured in one agreed room
- Tell us your pet plan in advance
- Ensure a decision maker remains available
- Have carriers ready just in case