Moving can be an exciting time, as it is usually the start of a new chapter in one’s life. However, getting ready to relocate can be stressful, with so many details to manage all at once. If you are a dog owner, getting your pet ready to move to a new house will also require some preparation time. Here are some great tips on how to make your dog’s journey to a new house a successful one.
Practice Car Rides
Most dogs love to ride in the car, but for others, it can cause a great deal of anxiety. If you have a pup that just doesn’t do well in a vehicle, take her for some practice runs a few weeks before moving day arrives. This will give her a chance to get accustomed to being in motion. She will quickly learn to sit down in a sturdy position to feel more secure. By the time moving day arrives, your pet will be much better prepared for the journey.
Packing For Pup
As you begin the packing process, be sure to leave out everything that your dog will need for her ride to the new place. Create a checklist that includes bowls for water/food, a leash and a collar that has both your contact information and a current rabies tag. If your dog has a favorite toy or stuffed animal that brings her comfort, be sure to take that along with you as well.
Visiting The New Place Together
If you can, bring the dog over to your new house or neighborhood to help her become familiar with the new surroundings. Take her for a walk to nearby parks or just around the block a few times. If you have physical access to your new home, let her sniff around and explore each room. This will help the transition from old house to new go more smoothly.
On The Road Potty Breaks
It is understandable that you will want to get over to your new home as soon as possible on moving day. As you make the journey, don’t forget to stop for doggie potty breaks along the way. Whether your animal needs to go to the bathroom per her normal routine or the ride is making her stomach upset, taking the time to let her do her business will be well worth the extra few minutes it takes to stop.
Medication
If you feel that your dog will be anxious in the car or suffer from motion sickness, talk to your vet about prescribing some medication for her. Giving the animal some mild sedatives a few hours before you leave will go a long way toward calming unsteady nerves. Many vets will gladly supply dog owners with some temporary medicine to help make the trip to the new house a lot more manageable.
How to Successfully Move With A Dog
Moving can be stressful for dogs, much in the same way that it can affect humans. By practicing car rides, packing everything she will need for the journey, visiting your new neighborhood, stopping for potty breaks and having medication ready if needed, you will help your four-legged companion make a successful transition to her new home.