Moving can be a stressful time for everyone involved. This even includes your pets too. However, what can you do to help relieve any stress that they may have? Continue reading to learn more about moving with your dog.
Preparation
Before you start to pack everything and hit the road, there are a few things that you can do to help aid your pet with their stress and anxiety. Here are a few things that might help:
- Conditioning: Your pet might be frightened at all of the moving equipment and boxes around the house. To help them you can get out a box early and let them play in it. This will help them when it comes time for you to move as they will have positive memories with the boxes.
- ID Tags: Before you move out to be sure to make sure that your pet's ID is updated and has your phone number and your new address on it.
- Crate Training: If you are traveling by car, you might want to make sure that your dog is used to being in a crate. One way to help them get used to it is to place some of their favorite toys in there.
- Learn The Rules: Before you even start to pack up and move you should make sure that you know all of the local pet laws where you are moving to.
Moving Day
Now that moving day is here you can focus on getting everything packed up. However, what do you do with your pet? They might seem stressed out over all of the people coming in and out of your house and lash out at people. You can keep them calm by:
- Have a designated sitter: Someone who can stay with your dog while all the business of the packing and moving is going on
- Leave them with a friend: This way your pet is out of the house and does not have to worry about all of the stress that is happening. Another option may be dog boarding if you can't find someone to host them.
- Keeping them in a safe, quiet space: If you have a fenced backyard, that is a great place for them to roam free away from the chaos. They can also be leashed in the yard, ideally with a long leash. Another option is keeping them in a separate room, although this should be a last resort and the room should not make them feel isolated or trapped. It should be a safe-haven where they can relax.
When You Arrive
Now that you have arrived at your new home with your furry companion there are still some things to do. For example, The American Kennel Club reminds pet owners to inspect your new home for any health hazards like cleaning products or rat poison before you let your dog explore. Here are some other things to do when you arrive:
- Keep the same setup: Don't go out and buy your dog a new bed, as their old one still carries the scent of your old home. This can help them feel comforted in their new environment.
- Pet proofing: Taking some time to pet-proof your new home can help keep your pooch safe while you are gone. Check out one of our previous posts to learn more.
- Maintain your schedule: When their whole schedule is thrown off, a dog can show signs that they are stressed out. To avoid this, them and walk them at the same time as you did in your old home.
- Find a vet: It is better to do this as soon as you can so you are not scrambling to find one last minute. You can even take this a step further and find one before you move.
Conclusion
Moving with your dog can be stressful, however, if you follow these tips you can help ensure that everything goes smoothly with your move. Another thing you can do to help reduce stress is by giving your pet a calming supplement like K9 and Kitty Calmer.
