Last Updated on September 18, 2019 by Kari-Ann Ryan
If your big moving day is coming up, you’re both excited and nervous. You might be anxious to set up your new home or start your new job. But while all the packing and planning can be stressful for you, the moving process can be even more frightening for your dog. As a dog owner, there are steps you can take to help ease your pet’s fright and confusion.
Below, there are 6 tips for making moving easier for your pet.
1. Keep Favorites Accessible
When packing up your things, try to leave your dog’s favorites for last. Pack any preferred bedding, blankets, or toys just before the actual move, and keep his or her favorite treats and food accessible at all times. During transport, consider leaving a couple of toys out for your dog to chew on during the ride. Having something familiar can help your pet settle down and feel more comfortable.
Once you get to your new place, immediately unpack your dog’s belongings and place them in areas that are similar to where they were located in your old place. It’s okay to replace some of your dog’s oldest possessions in the move, but be sure not to swap out everything. Mixing new toys and bedding with the old can help your pet feel more at ease, and he or she will also think of the new additions as rewards.
2. Stick to Your Routine
During any move, it can be difficult to keep your usual schedule. But normalcy can help your dog better deal with the move and your new home. If possible, maintain the same dog-care routine. Take your dog on walks at their normal time, and keep to his or her feeding schedule. Bedtime should be at the usual time, and playtime or other activities shouldn’t be dismissed.
If your pet normally uses a doggy door, have one installed in the new home as quickly as possible.
3. Show Love Regularly
Your move is stressful for everyone involved, but don’t forget to set a little time aside for your dog. Give your pet the love and attention he or she needs, and continuously show your dog how much he or she means to you.
Relocating can be tough on any pet, so providing plenty of love and affection can help them deal with the hectic process. Give your dogs a few extra treats, and take them on an extra walk if they get too antsy.
4. Ensure Your Dog’s Safety
With movers, packing, and the constant shifting of possessions and furniture, relocating can put your dog in a panic, and he or she can easily run away or hide amidst all the confusion. If your pets are having a hard time with the move, put them in a crate or in a room they feel comfortable in. You can also leave them with a friend or family member they’re familiar with until everything is packed up.
Keeping your pet somewhere safe and away from all the constant changes can also help minimize his or her stress.
If your pets are only a little troubled by the busy surroundings, consider offering them a rawhide bone to distract them from all the moving. They’ll have something to keep them busy and out of the way while you work.
5. Have a Little Patience
Your dog is going to need a little time to adjust to the new home. Just give him or her a while, and expect some odd behaviors for a couple of weeks. Your pet may vomit or have accidents while he or she gets used to these new surroundings, and your pet may act out. Stay patient until the behavior passes. If any unusual conditions or behaviors persist, contact a veterinarian or a professional trainer for help.
6. Consider a Doggy Day Care or Dog Sitter
In the first few weeks after a move, if you have to work or are otherwise away from home during the day, hire a dog sitter or leave your dog at a doggy day care while you’re gone. Right after the move, your dog might have a harder time than usual staying at home alone. He or she can get lonely and bored, and many pets get destructive when they’re left by themselves.
Until he or she has adjusted to the new place and returned to their normal behaviors, it may be best for both you and your pet to have your dog watched. After a few weeks, you might be able to leave your dog alone again. Relocating is a mixture of fun and stress for humans, but it’s important to make sure your dog is healthy and happy during the ordeal. Be sure you pay attention to his or her needs and look for any signs that something is wrong.
Work with a Trusted Moving Company
To make the process easier and open up time for you to care for your dog, rely on Mid-West Moving and Storage. We can help you pack up your possessions and handle the relocation so you can focus on your dog’s comfort and your other moving tasks. Plus, if you need to store your extra belongings to keep clutter out of your new home, we also have convenient storage services.
Our movers are experienced, trained, certified, and background-checked for your peace of mind during the moving process. You can expect us to arrive on-time on moving day, ready to handle all tasks needed ensure that your belongings arrive to your new home promptly and safely. Additional services like packing, furniture assembly, and storage are also available and can be added on to your quote at any time.
Get a Free Estimate
Give us a call at 847.593.7201 for a free estimate on your next move to, from, or within the Chicagoland area. We look forward to hearing from you!
