Moving is stressful for people. For pets, it can be confusing and frightening. With some planning, you can keep your dogs, cats and other animals safe, calm and cool — before, during and after the move.
Pets on moving day: Keep them in a quiet, cool room or with a sitter · Pets never travel in the truck · Move them last out, first in · Update their microchip and council registration.
Before the move
- Update the microchip with your new address and phone number
- Get an ID tag with your mobile number
- Book a vet check if you're travelling far, and get copies of vaccination records
- Find a new vet near your new home
- Bring out the carrier a week or two early so your cat gets used to it
- Keep routines the same
On moving day
Dogs
- Best option: a friend, sitter or boarding kennel for the day
- Otherwise, a quiet, cool room with water, their bed and a "do not open" sign
- A walk before the crew arrives helps
Cats
- Shut them in a quiet room the night before, with food, water, a litter tray and their carrier
- Put a sign on the door so nobody lets them out
- Move them last in their carrier
Small pets, birds and fish
- Keep cages out of the sun and away from the action
- Fish tanks must be emptied before they can be moved; move fish in water-filled bags or containers
In the Darwin heat
- Never leave a pet in a parked car
- Keep them cool and hydrated
- Watch for heat stress — heavy panting, drooling, weakness
See Moving in the Darwin Heat.
At the new home
- Set up one quiet room with familiar items before letting pets explore
- Check fences and gates for gaps
- Keep cats indoors for a week or two while they adjust
- Walk dogs around the new area on a lead
- Keep feeding and walk times consistent
Top End pet safety
- Snakes and cane toads — keep dogs away from toads and call a snake catcher if you see a snake
- Crocodiles — keep dogs away from the water's edge in creeks, rivers and some beaches
- Ticks and heartworm — talk to your vet about prevention in the tropics
- Cyclone plan — include pets in your emergency kit. See our Cyclone Season Moving Checklist
Council registration
Register your dog with your new council: City of Darwin, City of Palmerston or Litchfield Council (rural area). Check local rules for cats too.
Interstate moves with pets
- Driving? Plan pet-friendly accommodation and regular breaks — see Driving the Stuart Highway
- Flying? Use an airline-approved crate, or a professional pet transport service
- Renting? Check your lease allows pets. See Renting in Darwin
A calmer moving day for everyone
A fast, organised crew means less disruption for your pets.
Get a free quote · or see our house removals service.
Frequently asked questions
How do I keep my dog calm on moving day?
Keep them in a quiet, cool room with water and a familiar bed, or with a friend or boarding kennel for the day. Stick to normal feeding and walk times.
Can pets travel in the removal truck?
No. Pets should never travel in a removal truck. They travel with you or with a professional pet transport service.
Do I need to register my pet with the council in Darwin?
Dog registration is required in Darwin's councils, and local rules apply to cats in some areas. Check with City of Darwin, City of Palmerston or Litchfield Council.
How do I keep pets safe in the Darwin heat?
Provide shade and plenty of water, avoid walks in the heat of the day, never leave pets in cars, and watch for heat stress signs like heavy panting and weakness.