Most people change homes at least a few times in their lives, and if you have pets, the process can be even more stressful than usual. Not only do you have to work hard at packing, transporting, unpacking, and arranging items in your new home, but you also have to think about the stress on your pet. You’ll have to help your pet adjust to a new home in several ways. Here’s what you need to know to make the process easier.
Before You Move With Your Dog
Moving is such a lengthy process that you need to have a plan in place to keep your dog from being overwhelming. Taking time to prepare your dog for a move can have a huge impact on its stress level when you begin the process.
First and foremost, consider how you will transport your dog from your current home to your new one. Is the move just a short drive across town? Are you making a major move to a different state? Maybe you’re making an international move that requires a lot of planning and preparation. Regardless of the circumstances regarding your move, make sure you have the right tools to transport your dog. A car harness may be necessary for long vehicle rides, and you may need a sturdy crate if you need to take a plane to your destination.
Boarding
The staff at Canine Country Club & Feline Inn understands your pets are part of your family. We promise your dog or cat will be a part of our family while they are here, whether it’s to spend a day or a whole vacation with us. Learn more about our boarding services here:
While You Pack
Dogs thrive on routine, so they are sure to know something is amiss when you start packing for a move. You should try to stick to your normal routine as much as possible; feed, play with, and exercise your pet at the usual time each day and pack in between these tasks. If you can’t stick to your normal pet-care routine for any reason, it may be best to leave your dog with a friend, family member, or doggy daycare on heavy packing days.
You should also spend time familiarizing your pet with moving supplies. If your dog is used to the presence of large boxes in our house, it is less likely to be scared of the change in its routine.
What To Do To Help Your Dog On Moving Day
Moving day is so chaotic that it is best to not have your dog around while you load the moving truck. Your pet may be overwhelmed by all of the commotion or could get in the movers’ way, so the best thing to do is send your dog away for the day. If you don’t have a trusted friend or family member available to watch your dog on moving day, consider using the daycare services at the Canine Country Club & Feline Inn.
How To Help Your Dog Adjust After Moving Into a New Home
Your dog may be overwhelmed the first time it enters your new home. You can help it feel safe by setting up a safe space first. Find a nook in our new home to place your pet’s bed and favorite toys so that it has somewhere to go when it is scared. It can also be helpful to use familiar furniture at first to help your dog ease into all of the changes.
Don’t Leave Your Dog Home Alone in the Beginning
It’s normal for dogs to have a little separation anxiety right after a move. You may not be able to stay home from work to help your pet adjust to its new home, but you can make arrangements for your dog to attend the daycare offered by the Canine Country Club & Feline Inn. This way, your dog enters your home with you every day so it is less likely to be overwhelmed.
Above All, Be Patient
It takes time for your dog to adjust to a new home. Don’t expect your dog to adjust immediately just because you are sticking to your normal routine. Be patient with your pet and give it plenty of reassurance until it is comfortable in its new home.
Let the Canine Country Club & Feline Inn Help Your Pet Adjust to a New Home
Helping pets adjust to their new home is an important step in the moving process. If you need someone to watch your pets on moving day or while you work following the move, the Canine Country Club & Feline Inn is happy to help. We offer a membership that makes our prices affordable, and since we are located on East Washington Street in Phoenix, Arizona, we are in a convenient spot to keep your pet for the day or a longer stay. Contact us today for more information on our daycare services.
Featured Image Source: Pressmaster / Shutterstock
We believe your best friend deserves only the best, schedule their getaway today!