Moving With a Dog

Anyone who currently has a pet or had one in the past knows that it is not just an animal, but a part of your family. Amidst the hustle and bustle of moving, it’s important to paws pause for a moment and consider your furry friend’s needs. Here are a few tips to make the adjustment a little less stressful both for your dog, as well as you:

Before the Move

 

• Make sure Buddy is microchipped and has id tags which reflect your new home’s information
• Find a new vet in the area you are moving
• If Rover isn’t used to using a crate, it may be wise to purchase one and help him get used to it.
• If you’re planning to fly to your new town, have Spot ride with you through a car wash, and speak calmly to him while going through it. This gets him used to loud noises.
• Assemble boxes and then start packing/taping them so Daisy becomes accustomed to the new activity.
• Feed Luna a little bit less than usual a day or two before you leave so her stomach isn’t full when in the car/plane.
• Speak with your current vet regarding any medicine to keep Teddy calm.

During the Move

 

• Keep Snoopy’s regular schedule/routine as much as possible
• Keep Nala at a friend or relative’s home on the day the moving truck is being loaded. If that is not an option, put her in a different, quiet room with the door closed to keep her calm and so she can’t escape out the door.

After the Move

 

• Before Bailey arrives, first inspect your new home for anything that can harm him (rat poison, cleaning products, etc.)
• Create a familiar space so Lucy feels at home.
• Stick to Spike’s previous walking and eating schedule.
• When the moving truck is being unloaded, put Coco in a quiet room with her bed/toys so she feels a little more at ease and can’t run out the front door.

During the entire process, give Fido extra love and hugs. Speak calmly to him and explain what is happening. Even though he can’t understand your words, he can sense your mood and assurance.