10 Tips For Moving With Your Dog

10 Tips For Moving With Your Dog

Moving is almost always a chaotic venture. Between the clutter of boxes and the logistical nightmare of loading the moving truck, your pets are sometimes lost in the shuffle. I抳e written a list of tips that can make your move less disruptive for your pup. When your dog feels more comfortable, he抣l be quicker to settle into his new digs!

1. Dogs notice changes around the house. Have you ever noticed how your dog reacts when your suitcase comes out of the closet? In order to keep your pup from becoming agitated by all of the packing, try to complete the process over time. Drastic changes in his environment are more shocking than subtle ones.

2. Try to keep to your dog抯 daily routines as much as you can. Canines are creatures of habit and thrive on consistency. If you change or eliminate his rituals it is likely that he will act out with undesirable behaviors.

3. Make sure your pet has up to date ID tags with your current phone numbers and the new address. If you are unsure of a number where you can be reached, make a tag with the number of a friend or family member that could be responsible for your dog in case of an emergency.

4. On the day of the big move, you want to make sure that your dog is safe and secure. Place him in a room with some toys, water and a comfortable sleeping area. Keep the door closed and place a sign on the door letting movers and family members know not to open the door. This will prevent your pup from running out of the house while boxes are loaded.

5. If you are moving a great distance, pack snacks and water for your pet for the car trip. Make sure to locate pet friendly lodging if an overnight stay is required. Keeping your dog抯 medical records in an accessible bag is always a good plan.

6. When you arrive at your new home, you may be tempted to let your dog out to explore. Until items are unloaded and people stop going in and out, you抮e going to want to keep your dog confined in a room with a door. If the new environment is making him anxious, have a human he knows sit with him and distract him with some playtime or petting.

7. Try and maintain some consistency when setting up your dog抯 crate and bowls. If his crate was in the living room within earshot of the television before the move, position it there again. Try to keep objects he is familiar with inside his crate. Having his normal items around him will help him relax and settle in.

8. Don抰 allow your dog to fully explore without being supervised until you are sure that the house is 揹og proof? Unpacking is often a lengthy process and half full boxes can contain items that your dog may chew or consume. Also, if you have a fenced-in yard, be sure to walk the perimeter while checking for holes or weak spots.

9. Get back into a routine as quickly as possible. Lengthy walks around the new neighborhood will let your dog acclimate to his surroundings and will probably help you meet your new neighbors!

10. Remember that moving is a big change for everyone involved. Your dog doesn抰 understand why he isn抰 in his usual surroundings anymore. Keep him safely leashed whenever you are outside. Many dogs have been known to try and run back to their old homes if they have the opportunity and have become lost or injured in the process.