Moving to Hudson, WI? 5 Pet-Friendly Tips for a Stress-Free Move

Planning a move in the Hudson, WI real estate market or settling into a new spot in the Twin Cities? Relocating can be exciting—but let’s be honest, it can also be a bit chaotic. And while you’re juggling boxes, movers, and paperwork, don’t forget: your pets are feeling that stress too.

As a local REALTOR® who’s helped dozens of families (and their four-legged companions) transition across Western Wisconsin and Minnesota, I’ve picked up some helpful tips that make a big difference when moving with pets.

Here are five tried-and-true ways to make your move easier—for you and your furry friends.

1. Stick to Their Routine

Pets love consistency. During a move, everything around them is changing, so it’s important to keep what you can control familiar.

Tips to maintain routine:

• Feed them at their normal times

• Keep walk and potty break schedules consistent

• Stick with familiar toys, treats, and bedding

• Try to maintain regular walking routes after the move

Local insight:
If you’re relocating within Hudson, keep walking routes along the St. Croix River Trail or familiar neighborhoods until your pup feels settled. It can be comforting for them to smell and see familiar sights.

2. Pack a Pet Essentials Bag

Just like you might pack a “day one” bag for yourself, your pet needs one too. This ensures you’re not digging through boxes when they need food, a leash, or comfort items.

What to include in your pet’s essentials bag:

• Food and treats

• Water and collapsible bowls

• Leash, harness, and waste bags

• Favorite toys, blankets, or beds

• Medications and vet records

• A small pet first-aid kit

Pro Tip:
If your move includes overnight stays or crossing state lines, having all this ready can reduce stress and help your pet adjust more easily.

3. Create a Safe Space on Moving Day

Let’s face it—moving day is chaotic. Movers in and out, doors open, strange smells... even the most laid-back pet can get overwhelmed.

How to create a calm, secure environment:

• Designate a quiet room with your pet’s bed, food, and toys

• Use a pet gate or crate to keep them safe

• Play soft music to drown out the noise

• Ask a trusted friend to pet-sit for the day, if possible

Even social pets will appreciate a peaceful break from the commotion.

4. Update Their Information

A new address means it’s time to refresh your pet’s details. If your pet were to get lost during the move, up-to-date information could be a lifesaver.

Here’s what to update:

• Address on ID tags

• Microchip registration

• Local pet license (if required)

• Register with a new vet in Hudson or your Twin Cities neighborhood

• Request vet records from your current provider

Keeping this info current helps protect your pet and ensures continuity of care.

5. Let Them Explore Gradually

After you move in, it’s tempting to let your pet roam the entire home—but this can be overwhelming at first. Start small.

How to ease them into their new space:

• Set up one room with their bed, food, and toys

• Let them settle there before exploring more rooms

• Stick close during the first few days so they feel secure

• For dogs, begin with short walks around the block to introduce new scents and sights

Local tip:
In Hudson, explore pet-friendly parks like Lakefront Park or Grandview Park. They’re great places for dogs to stretch their legs and start feeling at home.

Looking for a Pet-Friendly Home in Hudson or the Twin Cities?

At The Johnson Group, we know that pets are part of the family. Whether you're looking for a fenced yard in Hudson, WI, or want quick access to walking trails and dog parks in Minneapolis or St. Paul, we’ll help you find a place that works for everyone in your household—fur and all.

📞 Ready to Make Your Move? Let’s Talk.

Let’s find the perfect place where you—and your pets—can feel right at home.

📱 Call or text The Johnson Group at 651-333-7656
🌐 Visit johnsonhomegroup.com to browse pet-friendly homes for sale in Hudson, WI and the Twin Cities

We’ll help make your move smoother, more enjoyable, and pet-approved.

Written by Mark Johnson, REALTOR® and owner of The Johnson Group at Coldwell Banker Realty. With over 20 years of experience helping clients across Hudson, WI and the Twin Cities, Mark delivers expert real estate guidance with a personal, local touch.