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Moving Tips for Dog Owners

Most people think cats are averse to change (and they are!), but did you know dogs can have just as much difficulty adjusting to significant changes? Dogs are comfort-oriented, and when you meet their needs, they remain pretty happy. Therefore, if planning a household move with Fido, it’s helpful to take deliberate steps to ensure a safe and healthy transition for your favorite canine.

Update Tags or Microchips

Depending on where you are moving, you might have to have a license for your dog. Make sure to add a tag with your name, along with your new address and phone number. This ensures if Fido does manage to escape during the move, the person who finds him can quickly return him to you. Also, consider microchipping your dog so that he’s easily identified if he gets lost. Finally, be sure to update your contact information in the microchip database.

Use a Crate for the Move

Many dogs are comfortable in a crate because they are used to them, but not all dog owners use them. Using a crate during the relocation process is the best way to ensure your dog doesn’t bolt or get injured during the actual move. Moving involves heavy activity, and Fido might get underfoot or run out the door and get loose. It'll be much harder to find him if he runs in unfamiliar territory at the other end of the move. His instinct might be to go to his familiar home. Using a crate eliminates the potential for your dog to get lost or injured.

Set Up a ‘Safe’ Room When Packing/Moving

Establishing a quiet area for your dog during heavy packing or on your moving day helps reduce anxiety from the hustle and bustle. Choose a quiet room where you can keep your dog safe during moving activities. In small homes, apartments, or condos, use the bathroom if needed. Just be sure to leave food, water, toys, and a favorite blanket or bed.

Prepare New Home for Fido’s Arrival

A dog’s first instinct is to want to sniff through its new home. If possible, introduce your dog to your home and let him sniff to his heart’s content before moving in boxes and furniture. Be sure to inspect the entire house for areas he might get stuck or sneak out. Equip the room with your dog’s food, water, toys, bed, etc.,—and close the door. Be sure to visit periodically to ensure he’s doing OK and reassure him that you’re still close by.

Visit the New Neighborhood

Ideally, try introducing your pup to the new house ahead of your move. If it’s not possible to let him inspect your new place ahead of your relocation, try to bring him to the neighborhood for a few walks. See if the home’s current occupants will let your pup explore the yard if he can’t come into the house. Any level of familiarity established ahead of time will help him get more quickly acclimated after the move.

Moving Made Easy

Moving is stressful for humans, but canines feel stress too. Taking these and other steps to plan for Fido’s move helps him remain safe and well-adjusted.

Are you looking to make moving arrangements? Contact us today for a free quote.