Moving with pets takes more than just cardboard boxes, it calls for thoughtful preparation, extra care, and reassurance. Furry companions are part of the family, RA Movers understands what it takes to make moving day easier for everyone, including pets.
While we don’t transport pets ourselves, we’ve helped countless customers prepare for a pet-friendly move by sharing practical tips that keep animals safe, calm, and comfortable, while we focus on delivering professional local moves, long-distance relocations, storage, specialty item handling, and junk removal.
Why Moving with Pets Needs Extra Care
Moving day can feel like a whirlwind of emotions, and pets feel it too. Whether you're relocating from one side of Warwick to another or heading out of state, planning ahead makes a world of difference. At RA Movers, we see the challenges pet owners face every week, like nervous cats hiding in closets, excited dogs trying to follow the moving crew, and small pets stressed by unfamiliar noises.
This guide shares the steps you can take to prepare, pack, and settle your pets smoothly into their new home, based on our experience helping local families move with care.

Preparing Your Pet for a Stress-Free Move
Keep a Consistent Routine (Even Amid Packing)
Pets thrive on predictability. Even as boxes pile up, keep feeding times, walks, and play sessions on schedule. Consistency helps reduce anxiety during the transition.
Visit Your Local Vet Before the Move
A quick vet visit ensures vaccinations are up to date, prescriptions are refilled, and you have the right travel documentation for out-of-state moves. Your veterinarian can also suggest ways to reduce travel stress for your pet.
Update Identification & Microchip Details
Moves can increase the risk of a pet slipping out of an open door. Updated ID tags and microchip information ensure your contact details are current, giving you peace of mind.
Packing and Moving Day Tips for Pet Owners
Designate a Quiet “Pet Zone” During Packing
Choose a safe area, like a spare room, where your pet can stay with familiar bedding, toys, and water while the rest of the house is in motion.
Secure Pets on Moving Day
On moving day, open doors, loud noises, and new faces can be overwhelming. Keep pets in their safe space or in a secure carrier away from the action.
Prepare a Pet Essentials Bag
Pack food, water, medications, a leash, toys, and any health paperwork in one easy-to-reach bag so you can access them throughout the move.
Transporting Your Pet Safely
While RA Movers doesn’t transport pets, we recommend:
- Using a secure, well-ventilated crate or carrier
- Introducing your pet to the crate before moving day
- Securing the carrier in your vehicle and covering it with a familiar blanket if needed to reduce stress.
Settling In: Helping Your Pet Feel at Home
Set Up Their Space First
When you arrive, place your pet’s bed, litter box, water, and toys in one quiet room before unpacking the rest of the home.
Gradually Introduce the New Home
Let pets explore one room at a time, especially cats or small animals who may be sensitive to large changes.
Enjoy Local Pet-Friendly Spaces
Once your pet is ready, explore nearby pet-friendly spots like Goddard Memorial State Park or the dog park at Warwick City Park.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Moving with Pets
- Packing away essentials too early
- Not updating identification and microchip info
- Allowing pets to roam during moving day
- Skipping routine vet checkups before travel
Why Choose RA Movers for Your Move
Even though we don’t transport pets, we’re committed to helping you move in a way that’s safe for every family member, including the four-legged ones.
Our services include:
- Local Moves – Smooth relocations within Warwick and surrounding communities
- Long Distance Moves – Reliable service to or from Rhode Island
- Storage Solutions – Safe, secure options for short- or long-term storage
- Specialty Item Handling – Care for pianos, antiques, and other fragile belongings
- Junk Removal – Clearing out unwanted items before or after your move
Contact RA Movers Now!
Moving with pets doesn’t have to be chaotic. While RA Movers doesn’t transport animals, our team can guide you through the process with practical advice, while we take care of your local move, long-distance relocation, storage, specialty item handling, and junk removal.
Ready to plan a move that’s smooth for the whole family? Contact RA Movers today for a free quote and let our Warwick-based team help you transition into your new home with confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Does RA Movers offer pet moving services?
No, we do not transport pets. However, we provide expert guidance on preparing and moving with pets so they can stay safe and comfortable.
Q2: How can I prepare my pet for a local move?
Keep their routine consistent, secure them in a quiet space on moving day, and set up their familiar items first in the new home.
Q3: Can RA Movers coordinate moving around my pet’s needs?
Yes, we work with you to ensure our moving process is smooth and safe for your pets, even if they’re kept in another part of the house.
Q4: What should I pack in my pet’s moving kit?
Include food, water, medications, ID tags, a leash, toys, bedding, and any required health records.