Relocating to a new city comes with its fair share of stress, but when pets are part of the move, the stakes feel even higher. From managing their routines to helping them adjust to unfamiliar surroundings, moving with pets takes extra planning and care. For those moving to Reno with four-legged companions, a thoughtful approach can make the transition easier for everyone.
Tip #1: Start Planning Early
The earlier you begin preparing your pet for the move, the smoother the experience will be. Pets thrive on routine, and sudden changes to their environment can cause stress or confusion. Gradually introducing changes, like packing or crate training, can help your pet adjust without feeling overwhelmed.
For example, bring out moving boxes a few weeks in advance and allow your pet to explore them at their own pace. If they’ll be traveling in a crate or carrier, begin reintroducing it with treats and short practice sessions to build positive associations. When moving with pets, planning ahead is one of the most important steps.
For example, bring out moving boxes a few weeks in advance and allow your pet to explore them at their own pace. If they’ll be traveling in a crate or carrier, begin reintroducing it with treats and short practice sessions to build positive associations. When moving with pets, planning ahead is one of the most important steps.
Tip #2: Maintain Routines as Much as Possible
During a move, your schedule may get hectic, but pets feel most secure when their day-to-day life remains predictable. Try to feed, walk, and play with your pet at the same times you usually would. Even on moving day, carve out time for meals and short walks.
If you're moving to Reno and traveling from out of state, build in rest stops for water, bathroom breaks, and a bit of fresh air. These small moments help reduce anxiety and keep your pet grounded in a time of change.
If you're moving to Reno and traveling from out of state, build in rest stops for water, bathroom breaks, and a bit of fresh air. These small moments help reduce anxiety and keep your pet grounded in a time of change.
Tip #3: Talk to Your Veterinarian Before the Move
Before relocating, schedule a check-up with your current vet. Make sure your pet is up to date on vaccinations, get a printed copy of their medical records, and ask for any travel-related advice.
For long-distance moves, especially to higher elevations like Reno (which sits over 4,500 feet above sea level), your vet can give guidance on how your pet might react to the altitude or dry climate. This is particularly important for older pets or brachycephalic breeds (like bulldogs or pugs), who may have respiratory sensitivities.
Your vet may also recommend anti-anxiety aids or motion sickness medications to help make travel more comfortable.
For long-distance moves, especially to higher elevations like Reno (which sits over 4,500 feet above sea level), your vet can give guidance on how your pet might react to the altitude or dry climate. This is particularly important for older pets or brachycephalic breeds (like bulldogs or pugs), who may have respiratory sensitivities.
Your vet may also recommend anti-anxiety aids or motion sickness medications to help make travel more comfortable.
Tip #4: Prepare a “Pet Essentials” Kit
Just like you’d pack an overnight bag for yourself, prepare a go-to kit with your pet’s necessities.
This should include:
This should include:
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Food and water bowls
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A few days’ worth of food
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Leash or harness
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Medications
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Waste bags or litter box
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A favorite toy or blanket
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Vet records and emergency contacts
Having these essentials easily accessible means you're ready for anything during the transition, whether you're driving cross-country or waiting for the moving truck to arrive at your new place in Reno.
Tip #5: Secure Your Pet on Moving Day
Moving day is chaotic, with open doors, loud noises, and lots of foot traffic, which can easily lead to an anxious or startled pet trying to run off. For their safety, it’s best to confine pets to a quiet, secure space away from the activity.
Options include:
Options include:
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A closed-off room with their bed and toys
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A crate placed in a low-traffic area
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Leaving them with a trusted friend or pet sitter for the day
This keeps your pet safe and allows movers to work without added concerns.
Tip #6: Update ID Tags and Microchips
Before the move, make sure your pet's collar tags have current contact information. If your pet is microchipped, update your address and phone number with the microchip registry. If your pet isn’t microchipped yet, this is a good time to consider it, especially with the added risk of pets getting lost in unfamiliar surroundings.
When moving to Reno, you’ll also want to check local regulations. Washoe County requires all dogs over the age of four months to be licensed, and it’s a good idea to register cats and exotic pets, too, for emergency purposes.
When moving to Reno, you’ll also want to check local regulations. Washoe County requires all dogs over the age of four months to be licensed, and it’s a good idea to register cats and exotic pets, too, for emergency purposes.
Tip #7: Help Them Settle Into Their New Space
Once you arrive in Reno, give your pet time to adjust at their own pace. Start by setting up a designated space with familiar items like their bed, food and water bowls, and toys. Keep their world small at first—one room or area—then gradually introduce them to the rest of the house.
For dogs, stick to a consistent walking route for the first week or two to help them become familiar with their surroundings. Cats may need more time, and it’s best to keep them indoors initially until they seem fully settled.
As they begin to feel secure, you can start exploring nearby parks, pet-friendly patios, and even meet some fellow pet owners in your new neighborhood.
For dogs, stick to a consistent walking route for the first week or two to help them become familiar with their surroundings. Cats may need more time, and it’s best to keep them indoors initially until they seem fully settled.
As they begin to feel secure, you can start exploring nearby parks, pet-friendly patios, and even meet some fellow pet owners in your new neighborhood.
Tip #8: Get to Know Reno’s Pet-Friendly Perks
One of the best things about moving to Reno is how pet-friendly the community is. From open hiking trails to off-leash dog parks, there are plenty of ways for pets (and their humans) to stay active and social.
Some local favorites include:
Some local favorites include:
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Rancho San Rafael Dog Park – Spacious, with separate areas for large and small dogs
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Virginia Lake Park – A scenic loop that's perfect for leashed strolls
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Mayberry Park and the Truckee River Trail – Great for active dogs and owners who enjoy nature
Reno also offers a variety of pet-friendly housing options, grooming services, and local pet boutiques, making it easier than ever to keep your furry friend happy and healthy in their new hometown.
Tip #9: Be Patient and Watch for Stress Signals
Pets process change differently, and it’s normal for them to act out, hide, or have accidents as they settle in. Give them extra attention and try not to punish behavior that may be stress-related.
Watch for signs of anxiety or discomfort, such as:
Watch for signs of anxiety or discomfort, such as:
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Loss of appetite
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Excessive licking or pacing
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Hiding or clinging behavior
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House soiling in otherwise trained pets
If symptoms persist, reach out to a local veterinarian or pet behaviorist in Reno to help your pet adapt comfortably.
A Little Preparation Goes a Long Way
Moving with pets doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right preparation, communication with your vet, and a thoughtful plan for arrival, your pet can adapt to their new surroundings with ease. Whether you're relocating from across town or across the country, taking these steps helps ensure a smoother move for both you and your four-legged family members.
Moving to Reno with Pets? Get Expert Local Support
If you're planning a move and want guidance on pet-friendly neighborhoods, homes with fenced yards, or nearby parks, Patricia DuHamel is here to help. As a trusted local expert in Reno real estate, Patricia understands the unique needs of families moving with pets. Reach out today to find a home that works for every member of your household—furry ones included.