Tips help to make moving day run for dog owners

There are a lot of things to think about on moving day, but if you’re a dog owner, don’t forget to make sure you’re making arrangements for your pet, too. Between disrupting your dog’s environment, extra noise, and not being able to provide as much attention as usual, your pooch is liable to become stressed and anxious.

Signs of distress include pinned back ears, excessive panting, bathroom issues, shaking, abnormal shedding, and change in appetite. When putting together your moving day to-do list, don’t forget these key factors to ensure the transition is smooth for everyone.

Introduce Your Pet To Your New Home Ahead Of Time

Research suggests that dogs can take a mental picture of a certain situation and action and repeat those circumstances after a hiatus. Providing it’s not a long-distance move, take your dog to your new home several times before the actual move in day. Take along his bed and toys so your pup can become acclimated with his new surroundings while being connected to something familiar. Frequent car rides are also a good idea so there aren’t too many “firsts” on the big day.

Don’t Pack Away All Of Your Dog’s Personal Items

Just like you should have an easy-access box containing toiletries, phone chargers, a change of clothes, etc., your dog should have the same. Include his bed, favorite blanket and toys, food and water bowls, wet and dry food, leash, and any medications, if applicable. If you plan on transporting your dog in a carrier, make sure it’s in your car in advance so you’re not scrambling to find it at the last minute.

Keep Your Dog Out Of The Way

The chaos of the actual move is liable to put your dog in a literal tailspin, so there are a couple of options to consider. You could temporarily board your dog or leave him with a family friend, but note that could cause more stress as you’re just adding another foreign place for your dog to get used to. Alternatively, give your pup his own space in a room that’s already been cleared to help keep stress levels low. Make sure there’s ample food and water along with toys and bedding for comfort. Studies show that dogs bark less when classical music is being played, so it can’t hurt to put on a little Bach (the composer with the greatest effect on dog’s behavior) during the move. Repeat the same process when you get to your new home.

Implement Safety Measures

Because your dog may be anxious, he/she may try to make a run for it on moving day. Make tags reflect your new home address and/or phone number. Consider getting him/her microchipped as an added safety precaution. Studies show that dogs with microchips are 2.5 times more likely to be returned to their owners than dogs without.

Maintain Old Routines After Moving In

One of the best things you can do to ease move-in anxiety is to maintain your dog’s routine. This includes consistent feeding time, bathroom breaks, walks, playtime, cuddle sessions, and any other activities you engage with your dog on a regular basis. Another routine to maintain is cleaning because taking care of your health is just as important as your dog’s. You should promote cleaner air in the home by investing in a purifier that removes pet hair and dander. Do your research before settling on one.

Dogs can pick up on the energy of their owners, so if you want to keep your pooch as stress-free as possible, try to do the same on moving day. Ensuring everything is organized and planned in advance is one way to do just that. While there’s no definitive timeline as to how long it will take your dog to adjust, rest assured that it will happen, so just be patient and give your canine some space.

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