Moving with dogs requires a little added time and attention because we all know that dogs are people too! Even though we humans know exactly what is going on, we still think moving is stressful. Imagine what that must feel like for our four-legged family members! A dog’s home (and more importantly, his yard!) is his own little castle and taking him to a new place requires a major adjustment. A new home doesn’t even smell right. Don’t worry though. There are a few things that we can all do before, during, and after a move to make moving with dogs a little bit less painful!
Moving with Dogs – Before You Move
- Check Your Local dog Laws: Different cities have different leash and licensing laws. Also, be on the safe side and do some research on any possible breed restrictions in your new neighborhood, city, or rental community.
- Look Into Vets: It’s a wise idea to do a little research and start a list of potential vets for your dog. To be even more prepared, locate emergency vets near your new home. Better safe than sorry.
- Find Your Dogs a Place to Play: You’ll want to be ready to take your fuzzy buddy out to play in his new neighborhood as soon as you can after you move as it will help him to adjust. Find the closest dog park to your new home.
- Make Sure Dogs are ID’ed: When moving with dogs, keep in mind that it will take some time for your new neighbors to “know” your dog. Make sure your dogs have up to date ID with your new address and phone number in case they get out in your new neighborhood.
Moving with Dogs – The Big Day
- Consider Hiring a Pet Sitter: Often to the best way to handle moving with dogs is not to! Let them come later. Consider a pet sitter or convenient doggie day care to keep your pets safe until the relocation is completely over.
- Pack with Your Doggie in Mind: When packing, don’t forget to keep your dog’s bed, bowl, food, and toys easily accessible.
- Feed Your Dog Small Meals: Knowing your dog will likely experience some anxiety as you move, you’ll want to feed them lightly. If they happen to have overly sensitive tummies, you may even want to skip a meal and wait to feed them after the move is over.
Moving with Dogs – After You Move
- Pet-proof Your Home: When you get to your new home, check fences for possible weak points or holes, and have your doggie gates handy in case you need to keep your dog confined to smaller areas as he adjusts to his new home.
- Consider Using a Leash: You’ll want to keep your dog close at hand as you unpack and move into a new home. There may be dangerous items coming out those boxes as you start to put things away and you’ll want to keep him out of them!
- Create a Familiar Space: After moving with dogs, quickly create a little familiar, safe space in your new home with blankets, beds, and toys that are familiar. It will help to let your dog(s) know you are now at home!
- Stick to the Routine: Don’t let the chaos of moving day interfere with feeding and walking schedules. Dogs need routine!
For the most part, just have a little faith and a dose of patience. Dogs adapt fairly well, but just like people, they need a little time to adjust to new surroundings. As always, reinforce positive behaviors and set boundaries and shower those fur babies with love!