For humans, moving house is exciting, but for your dog, it is like a whole world change. When you plan logistics, pack boxes, lift essentials, one member always sees you and thinks what is going on- that is your dog. He always thinks, Should I be worried or enjoy this time? But whether he thinks or not does not matter; as a pet owner, it’s your responsibility to know things to keep in mind when moving with dogs.
Always remember, moving with a dog is not as simple as you think. But with the right planning and execution, you can make your move successful with a dog. This guide is going to tell you everything about what things you should keep in mind when moving with dogs.
List of Things to Keep in Mind When Moving with Dogs
- Advance Planning
- Routine Consistent
- Prepare a Dog Essential Bag
- Safe Travel Tips
- Introduce Your New Home to Your Dog Slowly
- Minimize Stress During the Move
- Update Important Information
- Monitor Behavior & Health
- Make it Fun
Early Planning
Dogs can easily sense any change in the environment because they have a strong sense. That’s why it is recommended that you plan your move early to keep the dog relaxed and stress-free. You should plan everything, whether it’s transport, petpet-friendly hotel or vet visits if needed.
Keep their Routine Consistent
A dog always thrives on routine, even during a busy schedule. That’s why keep their routine consistent:
- Meal time
- Walk time
- Play Session
- Bathroom Routine
Consistency in their routine helps you to make them feel secure and comfortable in a changing environment.
Make a Dog Essential Bag
The dog’s essential bag should be ready before moving. This bag should have all the essentials for a dog, such as:
- Food Bowl & Water Bowl
- Dog Food & Treat for 3-4 days
- Grooming Items
- Dog collar
- Toys
- Cleaning Supplies
- Bedding of Familiar Blanket
- Medications if any
Safe Travel Tips
The safety of your dog is the primary goal. To keep them safe during the move, follow these essential tips:
- Use a secure carrier or seatbelt
- Never alone your dog alone in the vehicle
- Ensure proper ventilation in the car
- Take frequent breaks for water and the bathroom
- Carry calming aids
Safe travel helps you to keep your dog relaxed and protected.
Introduce Your New Home to Your Dog Slowly
After reaching your new home, never expect that your dog will be comfortable instantly. Firstly, let them explore the home so that they can accept the new environment. Start:
- Showing one room at a time
- Set up their bed and toy
- Rewarding them with treats
The slow introduction of home helps to make dogs confident and reduce their fear of new places.
Minimize Stress During the Move
Dogs have a strong sense, and they can easily detect humans’ emotions. If you are stressed, then they will automatically be stressed; that’s why keeping yourself happy and stress-free is so important, so that your dog can also. Minimize their stress by:
- Keep them in a silent room while packing belongings
- Play calming music
- Give them a puzzle toy or a puzzle food bowl
- Ask a friend or seater to watch them for safety
Update Important Information
Once you finalize your moving planning, always update important information about your dog, such as:
- ID Tag
- Microchip Information
- Vet records
- Pet insurance Address
Monitor Behaviour & Health
After moving, the dog may show unusual behaviour such as:
- Loss of appetite
- Excessive barking
- Hiding
- Clinginess
- Over excitement
These are the major signs of adjustment. Always give some time to your dog and monitor its behaviour and health.
Make it Fun
Always try to turn the move into a positive experience. By giving your dog:
- Extra cuddle
- More Outdoor anytime
- Fun Treat based
- Adventure walks around the new neighborhood
Final Thought
One thing to always consider is that moving with a dog needs patience, planning and emotional understanding. The moving process can be overwhelming for you if you don’t know how to treat or keep your dog safe during the move. By understanding the things to keep in mind while moving with a dog, you can easily make your move with a dog safe.
FAQ about Things to keep in mind when moving with dogs
Q. How to keep the dog calm during the move?
Answer: Keeping your dog calm during the move plays an important role; that’s why follow these tips:
- Maintain their routine
- Exercise before moving day
- Provide a safe space
- Use calming aids
- Stay Calm yourself
Q. What should we include in the Dog Essential Bag?
Answer: As a dog owner, you should include a food bowl, a water bowl, enough dog food, a collar, ID Tags, favourite toys, bedding, a familiar blanket, cleaning supplies, grooming items and more.
Q. How much time does a dog take to adjust to a new house?
Answer: Dogs take some days or several weeks to adjust to any house; that’s why it is recommended that you give them some time to adjust properly in the house.
Q. What if my dog has harsh behaviour?
Answer: If your dog has harsh behaviour, then it is recommended you hire a dog trainer during the move and always keep them calm with their favourite activities and toys.
