Preparation is so important when moving with dogs. Plan ahead to prevent any issues!
Are you planning on moving with dogs soon? I’ve heard many humans mentioning how stressful a big move is to them, so I’m here to remind you that moving is rough on your pets, as well. Here are a few tips to consider before moving day.
On moving day, it’s best to ask a friend to watch your animal or even bring him to a doggie day care.
I’ve heard so many stories of pets who have escaped during a move never to find their way home again. Even if you have a super-friendly dog who will just follow the movers around, the day will be hectic and confusing for you and your dog. If someone is available to watch them take them up on the offer. If no one offers, don’t be shy – ask a friend.
How will you be transporting your pet to his new home?
If your dog is comfortable in the car and the distance isn’t too far, he won’t be too nervous. However, if you’re going on a long road trip, you should prepare your car for your dog. If he’ll be crated while driving, get him comfortable with the crate long before moving time. This can start in your old home. Once your puppy is comfortable with the crate, take him for short crated drives. Remember to stop frequently during a road trip to give your dog the opportunity to relieve himself. Are you flying to your new home? If so, it’s mandatory your dog will need to be crated, so get him comfortable right away. Call the airline to find out what if anything is allowed in the crate with your dog.
Check for hazards in your new home before you allow your pet to enter.
Look for poisonous materials like open and low-to-the-ground cleaning supplies, frayed wires, anything loose that might be swallowed, or any possible ways your dog can escape if you’re not paying attention.
Introduce your dog to his new bathroom!
It’s likely that your dog understood where he could use the bathroom in your old home, so be sure to show him where you prefer him relieving himself in the new home, as well. There are usually so many smells outside that your dog may investigate for a long time.
While it might be tempting to let your dog loose in the house the second he arrives, I might suggest introducing him to the house on a room-by-room basis.
Some dogs like to mark their territory, and if let run free he might leave a special present for you to find. New houses with new smells might trigger a behavior in your dog that wasn’t there before like biting and scratching furniture.
Get your dog a new ID tag.
Be sure to remove the old one and put on the new one immediately after the move is complete. Also, check with your local city or town, as some dogs need to be registered annually. If you’ve moved, you’ll need to register your dog in his new home area.
Take your dog for walks.
Start off with a small route so your dog becomes comfortable with the smells of your immediate area. Continue traveling this route regularly. Once you’ve been in your home for a little while, begin exploring.
Update your veterinarian or find a new one.
If you’re moving far enough away that you’ll need a new veterinarian, it would be best to start your search as soon as possible. Also, be sure to locate the closest emergency pet clinic. You never know when you might need it, so preparation is key!
Have you ever moved with pets before? Tell us in the comments about your experience moving with dogs!
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