Moving can be one of the most stressful events in a person’s life. So imagine how stressful it can be for your dog! With over 7,000,000 moves under our belt, we’ve learned a few things about moving with dogs. Here are 10 tips from our experts on how to prepare your dog for the big move:
1) Have fun! Making the move to your new home is a time to celebrate, so make it a celebration. Play with your dog while the movers pack up the truck. A good distraction and a real anxiety reducer for both of you. Do the same thing in your new home, while they unpack the truck.
2) After the move you will be busy unpacking, so don’t ignore your dog. Take regular walks if you can. Exploring your new neighbourhood together, or even short breaks from unpacking to play will help your dog better behave during this change in everyone’s environment.
3) If your dog will be in your home during the move, be sure to let your movers know ahead of time. You may be surprised how many big strong men and women are afraid of dogs. Whether it’s a Mastiff or a Chihuahua, it doesn’t matter to someone afraid of dogs. Also, some people are allergic to dogs. So a heads up beforehand can avoid a lot of trouble on move day.
4) Make sure you take your pet out for a lot of potty breaks throughout the day. Nothing will ruin your moving day more than a ‘present’ from your dog left on your new living room floor. The move will most likely make them nervous, so they will need to go more than usual. If you don’t have a fenced in yard, remember to keep them on a leash too. They won’t be familiar with the new neighbourhood, and you’ll want to avoid making a bad first impression on your new neighbours.
5) Don’t forget that your dog will be excited on move day and will need plenty of water. Exercise is the best way to get your dog ready, relaxed, and calm for when the movers arrive. A long walk or epic round of fetch is a great idea, but be sure that water bowl stays full.
6) Pack a separate box of your dog’s favourite toys, and make sure it’s one of the first things off the truck. Once you get to your new home, your dog may be nervous or frightened of the new surroundings. Having familiar playthings or a favourite blanket or bed ready can reduce that stress.
7) Have dog treats on hand for move day. Making your dog listen to commands, and do any tricks they know, is a great distraction during the hustle and bustle of a move. It can be a great way to introduce the movers as well.
8) If your dog must be with you during your move, be sure you can keep your loved one out of the movers’ way. Dogs can create obstacles which will impede the move, or worse, trip and injure a mover carrying heavy items.
9) If possible, leave your dog with a friend or relative or arrange boarding. Those will be the best places for your furry friend while the movers are doing their job and you can devote your total attention to your moving activities as well.
10) Under no circumstances should you place your dog in the back of a moving truck. Even safely tucked into a well-ventilated pet travel carrier, the moving truck is almost always hot (even in winter) and of course, the doors are closed. It’s just not safe.
Keep these tips in mind, and with little planning, your move will be stress-free for both you and your dog.