Moving to a new home is exciting but can also be a hassle. Moving is stressful, from packing up what feels like your entire life to orchestrating all the logistics. When you have a pet at home, things become more complicated – especially since your dog will probably sense your nervous feelings and react accordingly. Fortunately, these tips can make your next move easier.
Prep Your Pup Ahead of Time
Proper training is one of the best ways to help your dog remain calm in any scenario. For example, training your puppy as soon as you bring them home is an excellent way to ensure they feel comfortable and safe in different environments. Even if your pet is older when you bring them home, crate training is still doable. Helping your pup feel better about all the activity around them goes a long way toward smoothing the move.
Toys and Whatnot
Owners' general rule of thumb is to not switch bedding or toys immediately after a move. Doing so removes your pup's familiar items and can add to their anxiety and discomfort. If you're set on treating your pet to a new bed, toys, and the like, plan to purchase these items several weeks before your move. If they have their new bed or toys early on, those items will pick up your household scents, which will be a source of relief for your pup on moving day. Look to online stores like Chewy to get these items quickly delivered; you may even find a Chewy promo code to help you save.
Enlist a Moving Company to Help
Enlisting the help of a moving company like Village Mover can prove invaluable for your experience (and your pet's). Be sure to budget as far in advance as possible for your move – work with Village Mover to determine the best day and time since costs can fluctuate. If your pet will be at home while you pack up and wait for the movers, inquire about the movers' comfort with animals. If your moving team has experience with pets being around during a move, that's a big help. Plus, the more confident the moving company's staff feels around animals, the less likely your pup will feel anxious or aggressive.
Set Aside Time and Space for Your Pet
Moving day will undoubtedly be hectic, but one way to ease your dog's nerves is by spending as much time with them as possible. Using a moving company, you can ensure room in your vehicle for your pet and their belongings. This is especially important if your pet experiences anxiety or motion sickness in the car.
You'll also want to be sure the new home has a special area where your dog can relax. With people coming and going, even typically calm dogs can become anxious. Schedule regular breaks from your moving tasks to hang out with your dog, play, or take a quick walk. Just be sure to carefully introduce your pooch to the neighbor's dog to avoid fights, suggests the Animal Humane Society.
Explore Carefully (Together)
While you're busy unpacking and setting up your new home, your canine could be getting into trouble. Take care to explore together before letting your pet loose. Be aware of potential hazards in your home – including poisonous plants or household products. Also, have Animal Poison Control's information handy, just in case.
Maintaining a daily routine, as you did at your old home, is another way to help your dog transition to the new living space with less stress. Try to stick with similar timing and spaces, like feeding breakfast at the same time in the laundry room, if that was where the meal was served before transitioning.
Moving into a new home is an exciting time – for everyone in your household. However, your canine companion has additional challenges beyond packing boxes and hiring a great moving team. Keep your pup's needs in mind while making the transition, and you'll feel better about the move from day one.
Are you preparing for a big move? With more than 60,000 successful moves under our belt, Village Mover has the right experience to make your move easy. Call today for a quote! (352) 751-2750
Article by Cindy Aldridge (edited for clarity)
