Moving with Pets to Brisbane: Your Guide to a Pawsitive Experience
Moving is stressful for everyone, including the four-legged, feathered, or scaled members of your family. They don't understand the chaos of boxes and strangers. In Brisbane's unique climate, their needs are specific. As pet owners and pet-loving movers, the SwiftMove team has gathered our best tips to ensure your pet's move is as calm and safe as yours.
Weeks Before the Move: Preparation is Key
1. Visit the Vet
Update ID: Ensure your pet's microchip details are updated with your new address and phone number. This is your pet's single best ticket home if they get lost during the move.
Health Check: Get a general check-up. Request a copy of their medical records if you're changing vets.
Calming Aids: For particularly anxious animals, ask your vet about natural calming supplements or other solutions for moving day.
2. Prepare a "Pet Essentials" Box
Pack a separate box just for your pet. Include:
Food and water bowls + a few days' worth of food (a sudden switch can upset their stomach).
Favourite toys, blankets, and treats. Familiar smells are incredibly comforting.
Any medications they need.
A spare leash, collar, and poop bags.
A pet first-aid kit.
3. Practice Makes Perfect
Carrier Training: If your pet isn't used to a carrier, leave it out with treats and comfortable bedding inside weeks in advance so it becomes a safe space, not a scary trap.
Short Trips: Take dogs on short car rides to your new neighbourhood if possible, so the final journey isn't unfamiliar.
Moving Week & Day: Keeping Calm Amid the Chaos
1. Maintain Routine
Stick to your pet's regular feeding, walking, and play schedule as much as possible. Routine is reassuring.
2. The Golden Rule: Secure Your Pet 🚫
On moving day itself, the constant opening of doors presents a huge escape risk.
The Safest Option: Arrange for them to stay with a friend, family member, or at a pet daycare for the day.
The Next Best Option: Confine them to a quiet, secure room (like a bathroom or spare bedroom) with clear signage on the door ("DO NOT OPEN - PET INSIDE"). Place their bed, water, toys, and litter tray (for cats) in there. This keeps them safe, sound, and away from the stress and activity.
3. Travel Safely to Your New Home
Never let your pet roam free in the car. Use a secure carrier, crate, or a pet seatbelt harness.
Pack a travel bag with water, a bowl, and waste bags for the journey.
For long distances, plan for rest stops where your dog can stretch their legs and hydrate.
Settling Into Your New Brisbane Home
1. Pet-Proof First
Before giving your pet free rein, do a safety sweep:
Check for holes in fences, loose wires, or toxic plants in the garden.
Ensure all windows and screens are secure.
2. Introduce Gradually
Start by allowing them to explore one room at a time with their familiar items (bed, toys).
Keep them indoors for the first few days, even if they are outdoor pets, so they understand this is now their home.
3. Brisbane Climate Considerations ☀️
Heat & Sun: Ensure your pet has constant access to shade and fresh, cool water. Brisbane summers are no joke. Never leave them in a parked car.
Storms: Some pets are fearful of storms, which are common in summer. Provide a safe, sheltered indoor space where they can retreat during noisy weather.
How SwiftMove Helps You and Your Pet
We know your pet is family. Our crews are trained to be calm, quiet, and respectful around all animals.
We Listen: We will follow your instructions about which rooms are off-limits.
We Are Careful: We are extra vigilant when opening and closing doors to prevent any escapes.
We Are Patient: We've moved everything from anxious cats and excited puppies to delicate fish tanks and bird cages. We understand the required care.
We don't just move your furniture; we help move your entire family, safely and compassionately.
👉 Planning a Move with Your Furry Family Member?
Let's create a moving plan that keeps everyone, especially your pets, safe and stress-free.
📞 Call the pet-friendly movers at SwiftMove today: 0494 083 737
