Moving can be stressful for anyone—but for pets, it can be downright confusing. New smells, strangers coming in and out, and boxes everywhere can leave your furry family members feeling anxious. Whether you’re relocating within Tracy or making a long-distance move, a little planning goes a long way in keeping your pets calm, safe, and comfortable throughout the transition.
At All Star Movers & Storage, we’ve helped hundreds of Tracy families move smoothly while caring for every member of the household—including those with paws, claws, or tails. With our organized, pet-friendly approach, you can look forward to a move that’s stress-free for both you and your four-legged companions.
Why Moving Can Be Hard on Pets
Pets are creatures of habit. A sudden change in their surroundings can trigger anxiety, especially when familiar routines are disrupted. Loud noises, open doors, and moving trucks can all add to the stress. Therefore, preparing early and maintaining structure are key to helping your pets adjust smoothly.
Furthermore, each animal reacts differently—dogs may become clingy or restless, while cats often hide or refuse to eat. Recognizing these behaviors early allows you to take steps to reassure them.
Step 1: Prepare Your Pets Before the Move
Before moving day arrives, start by helping your pets get used to small changes gradually. For example:
Introduce moving supplies early: Let your pets sniff boxes and packing materials so they become familiar with new smells.
Keep a consistent routine: Feed, walk, and play with them at the usual times.
Update identification: Make sure collars, microchips, and tags reflect your new Tracy address.
Visit your veterinarian: Get copies of vaccination records, discuss travel safety, and refill any medications.
In addition, if you’re moving long-distance, ask your vet for recommendations for pet-friendly stops or accommodations along your route.
Step 2: Create a Safe Space During Packing
Packing can make pets nervous, especially when their favorite spots start disappearing. Consequently, it’s best to create a “safe zone” where they can relax while you work. Choose a quiet room—like a bedroom or office—and fill it with familiar items such as:
Their bed or blanket
Favorite toys
Food and water bowls
A litter box (for cats)
Moreover, consider playing soft music or using a white-noise machine to block out the sounds of packing and moving. This calm environment gives your pets a place to retreat whenever the activity becomes too overwhelming.
Step 3: Plan for Moving Day
On the big day, the safest option is to keep your pets in a secure, quiet area—either in a separate room or at a friend’s home. Movers will be coming in and out, and open doors can pose escape risks. Therefore, it’s best to:
Confine pets to one room with a “Do Not Open” sign on the door
Arrange pet-sitting or boarding if possible
Keep carriers ready for transport, especially for cats or small animals
Pack a small “pet essentials” bag with food, leashes, treats, and cleanup supplies
Additionally, our All Star Movers & Storage crews are trained to work efficiently and respectfully around pets, minimizing disruptions and keeping your home safe during the move.
Step 4: Transporting Your Pets Safely
If you’re driving to your new home, plan ahead to ensure your pets are safe and comfortable during the journey.
Use crates or seat belt harnesses for secure travel
Avoid feeding large meals right before the trip to prevent motion sickness
Take regular breaks for water, exercise, and bathroom stops
Keep pets inside the vehicle—never in a moving truck or open bed
For longer moves from Tracy to cities like Sacramento or San Jose, make sure to book pet-friendly accommodations in advance.
Step 5: Helping Pets Adjust to Their New Home
Once you arrive, give your pets time to explore and adjust gradually. Begin by setting up one room with all their essentials, and then allow them to explore the rest of the house at their own pace.
Furthermore, maintaining familiar routines—such as feeding times, walks, and play sessions—will help them feel more secure. Reward calm behavior with treats and positive attention to reinforce comfort in the new environment.
In addition, check the new yard or outdoor areas for any escape routes or hazards before letting pets roam freely.
Bonus Tip: Prepare for Local Climate and Noise Differences
Tracy’s warm summers and occasional construction noise can take some getting used to—especially for pets accustomed to quieter or cooler environments. Therefore, make sure your pets have shaded, ventilated areas during the day and that windows or doors are secure to prevent escapes if loud noises startle them.
Why Tracy Families Choose All Star Movers & Storage
At All Star Movers & Storage, we’re not just movers—we’re partners in helping families transition comfortably. Our locally owned, fully licensed, and insured team understands the challenges of moving with pets and provides thoughtful support throughout the process.
Families across Tracy, Mountain House, Livermore, Dublin, Pleasanton, and surrounding Central Valley communities trust us for:
Experienced local and long-distance movers
Packing and unpacking services tailored to your timeline
Protective moving materials for floors, walls, and furniture
Flexible scheduling for same-day or weekend moves
Transparent pricing with no hidden fees
Moreover, our crews communicate clearly every step of the way—so you know what’s happening, and your pets stay safe and comfortable.
Ready to Move in Tracy—with Pets in Mind?
Moving with pets doesn’t have to be stressful. With preparation, patience, and help from the professionals at All Star Movers & Storage, you can ensure your relocation is calm, organized, and worry-free for every member of your household.
We proudly serve Tracy, Mountain House, Livermore, Pleasanton, Dublin, San Ramon, Walnut Creek, Sacramento, and nearby areas with professional moving, packing, and storage solutions.
Call today at (925) 905-9889 to schedule your free estimate! and experience a smooth, pet-friendly move with All Star Movers & Storage!