Moving with your dog doesn’t have to be stressful.
Moving with your dog can be very tricky. Whether you are shifting into a new nearby neighborhood or across the country, your dog feels the same way you do: scared and stressed. Since we all know that routine keeps dogs grounded, it’s important to keep the same schedule before and after moving. If you also have a cat, check out our blog on moving with your cat here.
This is why you need to plan ahead for surprises.
- Check-in with the homeowner’s association where you are moving to find out if there are rules regarding keeping dogs on a leash, breed bans, restricted walking areas, etc
- The move will be stressful for your dog, no doubt, so find a new vet nearby your new house immediately.
- Get your dog micro-chipped
- Make your dog’s identification tag, so that if they get lost, they can find their way home.
Once you have taken care of all the necessities, here’s what you need to do:
Allow Your Dog to Interact With the Moving Supplies
Buy your moving supplies at least 2 weeks before moving. Place them in a room that your dog does not visit frequently. When you start sorting things out, let your dog sniff the supplies. Use them in play too. For example, assemble a cardboard box and throw treats for them. Let your dog jump into the box, if they can, and eat the treat.
Crate-Train Your Dog Before Moving
Start crating your dog more often. This will help them associate the crate with a safe place, which they may retreat to in the new house if they feel overwhelmed.
Have a Day Out With Your Dog
Before you get busy packing, take your dog out for a puppuccino, play fetch on a beach, and let him play in the park. This will distract them from all the hustle-bustle in the house and calm him down.
Don’t Clean
This might sound a bit odd, but we suggest you don’t clean the house. Packing things as they are will bring the old house smell into the new house, which will ease any anxiety your dog might develop after the move.
Feed Them Lightly
If moving proves too much for your dog, you don’t want a dog with an upset stomach. So, pick up snacks, keeping in mind your dog’s sensitive stomach.
Use a Crate or Seatbelt
Use a secure crate or harness with a seatbelt attachment that keeps your dog secure in the car. Never put your dog in the front seat. If airbags deploy, they could seriously harm your dog. Always secure your dog in the back seat. Avoid keeping any boxes in your car, you don’t want boxes shifting. This will also give your dog more room to get comfortable.
Make Frequent Stops
If your trip is a long one, make sure to make frequent stops, so your dog can stretch their legs and relieve themselves. For some dogs, that may mean as frequently as every hour or so.
Take the Fun Route
If you have someone waiting in your new house to take care of the movers, make a pit stop and take your dog on a hike. This will calm down his nerves.
Don’t forget to pet-proof your new place, so that your dog does not get into something he is not supposed to. Your dog should have a solid recall and great leash manners to make your trip easier. Dances with Dogs offers in-person and online dog training in Miami. To learn more about our services or schedule an appointment, call 786-299-1552.