If you’re getting ready for a big move across the Prairies, finding the right moving company Calgary to Regina can take a lot of weight off your shoulders. Movers are great at handling the heavy stuff – your boxes, furniture, and all those odds and ends. But when it comes to your pets, things are a little different. Pets will always notice change in ways we sometimes forget, and moving can be a stressful experience for them. The good news is, with a little planning, you can make the journey much smoother for both you and your furry companions.
Why Pets Struggle With Moving
Pets thrive on routine. Dogs love their daily walks, cats cling to familiar spaces, and even small animals like rabbits or hamsters rely on certain smells and sounds. When the house suddenly fills with strangers, boxes, and there’s a long car ride to an unfamiliar place, it can throw them off completely. Stress shows up in different ways: dogs may whine or stop eating, cats might hide or skip the litter box.
Getting Ready Before the Move
1. Visit the Vet
Make sure to book a vet appointment a few weeks before you move. Ask about:
- Updated vaccinations (especially if you’re crossing provinces)
- Copies of medical records
- Calming sprays or mild sedatives if your pet gets anxious in cars
Cost: Expect $70-$120 for a basic check-up in Calgary. Vaccines or prescriptions may add another $50-$200.
2. Update ID Tags and Microchips
Your pet’s collar should have your new contact information. If your pet is microchipped, update the registry as well.
Cost: Around $25-$50.
3. Pack a Pet Bag
Just like you’d pack an overnight bag for yourself, set one aside for your pet. Include:
- Food and water (plus bowls)
- Leash, harness, or carrier
- Favourite toys or blankets
- Litter box or waste bags
- Medications
Travel Tips
For long drives like Calgary to Regina (about 8 hours), here’s what works best:
- Dogs: Use a seatbelt harness or crate. Stop every 2=3 hours for walks and water.
- Cats: A sturdy carrier with a blanket over top can keep them calm.
- Small pets: Use well-ventilated carriers, and keep them out of direct sun.
Pet-friendly motels along Highway 1 or 33 run about $110–$160 per night if you need to stop.
After the Move: Helping Them Adjust
Unpack Their Stuff First
Set up your pet’s bed, bowls, and toys as soon as possible. Don’t wash their blankets just yet – the familiar smell helps them settle in.
Explore Slowly
Dogs can start with short walks around the block. Cats should explore one room at a time until they’re comfortable with new surroundings and smells.
Watch for Changes
It’s normal for pets to act differently at first – jumping, hiding, barking more, or losing appetite. Most settle in within a week, but if issues continue, a vet visit might be needed.
Extra Tips for a Smooth Journey
- Pet Transport Services: If driving isn’t an option, relocation services are available.
- Comfort of your Car: Bring non-spill water bowls, keep the car cool, and avoid heavy meals right before departure to prevent car sickness.
- Travel Insurance for Pets: Companies like Trupanion or Petsecure offer coverage in case of emergencies. Plans average $50-$90 per month.
Cost Breakdown for Moving With Pets
Service / ItemAverage Cost (CAD)
Vet visit & vaccine updates $70-$200
ID tag / microchip update $25-$50
Pet travel crate $80-$250
Calming sprays or mild sedatives $20-$80
Pet-friendly hotel (per night) $110-$160
Professional pet transport (optional) $400-$1,500
The Bottom Line
Remember, while a moving company can handle the moving logistics and heavy lifting for your Calgary to Regina move, only you can make sure your pets feel safe and loved through the process. Take it slow, give them time, and before you know it, your whole family, including the four-legged members, will be settled in and ready for the next chapter.
