Selling your home is a big event — boxes everywhere, strangers walking through your space, new smells and noises. It’s a lot for you, but for your pets, it can be downright confusing! Our furry (or feathered) friends thrive on routine, and home showings or moves can throw their world upside down.

Luckily, there are some simple steps you can take to make the process easier for everyone. Here’s how to sell your home — without stressing your pets out.

1. Keep Their Routine as Normal as Possible

Pets find comfort in predictability. Feed them, walk them, and play with them at their usual times, even during the moving chaos. A stable routine helps them feel secure when everything else is changing.

Tip: Set reminders for mealtimes or walks so you don’t forget in the middle of cleaning or packing.

2. Create a Safe, Quiet Space

Before showings start, set up a peaceful “pet zone.” This could be a spare bedroom, laundry room, or even a cozy crate where your pet can retreat and relax.

Add familiar items like:

• Their favourite blanket or bed

• A few toys

• A piece of your clothing (your scent is soothing!)

During open houses, keep them in this room with a “Do Not Disturb — Pet Inside” sign, or take them out of the house entirely.

3. Plan for Showings

Having strangers walk through the house can make pets nervous — and not all buyers love surprises in the form of barking dogs or curious cats!

Here are your best options:

• Take them for a walk or car ride during showings.

• Ask a friend or pet sitter to watch them.

• Consider daycare for dogs if showings will be frequent.

This keeps your pets calm and your buyers focused on your beautiful home.

4. De-Pet Your Home (Temporarily)

Buyers love clean, fresh spaces — and not everyone loves pet hair or odors. Before listing photos or open houses:

• Vacuum daily (especially pet beds and furniture).

• Use pet-safe air fresheners or baking soda to neutralize smells.

• Hide litter boxes, food bowls, and toys if possible.

It’s not about hiding your pet — it’s about helping buyers picture themselves living there.

5. Update Your Agent

Tell your real estate agent about your pets. A good agent will coordinate showings around your pet’s needs and alert visitors that animals live in the home. This small step can prevent a lot of stress and surprises.

6. Prepare for Moving Day

Moving day can be the most chaotic part — boxes, movers, doors opening and closing. Keep your pets in a closed, quiet room or arrange for them to stay with a friend or kennel for the day. This prevents escape attempts and keeps them safe from the commotion.

When you arrive at your new home, set up their things first — bed, toys, food, water — so they recognize familiar scents right away.

7. Give Them Extra Love

Don’t forget: your pets pick up on your emotions. If you’re calm and reassuring, they’ll feel more at ease. Take time for cuddles, walks, or play breaks amid the packing — it helps both of you unwind.

Selling a home can be a whirlwind, but with a little preparation, you can make the process gentle for your pets. Keep their routine steady, give them a haven, and plan for showings. The goal is to keep tails wagging and whiskers twitching happily — even as your “for sale” sign goes up.

After all, home is wherever you and your pets feel safe and loved