Tips For Moving House With A Dog

 

A dog really is a man’s (and woman’s) best friend, so it’s no surprise that 24% of homes have a pet dog within them according to the 2015 Pet Report commissioned by the PFMA. They become so much part of the family that people can sometime forget that they do need to be treated a little differently on occasions, and a prime example of this is when moving home. By following our tips for moving house with a dog you can ensure that your four legged pal arrives at their new home with his tail wagging happily.  

Acclimatising Your Dog To The Move

You may have noticed how your dog loves a regular routine and hates change, most dogs are just the same. Sudden changes can be extremely stressful to a dog, and that’s why it makes sense to acclimatise them to the impending move as much as possible before the big day arrives. Try not to change your dog’s routine, feed and walk them at their normal times. If the house you’re moving to isn’t far from the one you currently occupy, then it may be worth driving them to the new area, and taking them for walks in the vicinity. This helps your dog get used to the new streets and fields where you are moving to.  

Preventing Your Dog From Feeling Abandoned

Every dog owner knows that dogs are incredibly loyal and very intelligent creatures. They invest a lot of love in their owners, and the last thing they want to feel is that they could be abandoned or left behind by them. Inadvertently that’s just the impression that some dog owners give when moving home, and you can imagine the stress it causes. Try not to remove things from the house in the presence of your dog because if you do that you’ll soon notice your dog’s agitation. If possible, keep them in one particular room of your old house, and don’t let them see the removal activity in the other rooms. Never remove your dog’s toys or food bowl until you are actually ready to move.  

The Pet Sitter Solution

An alternative way to get around the move turning into a stressful experience for your dog is to use a dog sitter. In this way, the dog can be out of your house completely while the move takes place. You may have a friend or family member who the dog knows who could take care of this duty for you, but if not there are professional dog sitters who can be found via the internet. Look for a pet sitter with good testimonials and a great reputation, and it would be a good idea to introduce your dog to them before the day of the move.  

During The Journey

Some dogs, like humans, are better travellers than others. You’ve probably driven with your dog before so if they’re not a great traveller try to get them used to the car more by taking them for gradually longer drives. Always leave a small gap at the top of the window to allow a little air in during the journey, and it can help to have their favourite toy within easy reach. Dogs can quickly become dehydrated during a car journey, so if you’re covering a long distance, stop from time to time to give your dog a drink of water and a bite to eat. A dog harness, or guard, can keep your dog secure during the journey, and try not to brake or accelerate too harshly.  

Taking Care Of Your Dog After The Move

You’ll be surprised how quickly your dog becomes happy in their new home, as long as their masters and their familiar toys are around them. A good tip is to avoid washing their blanket for a week or two before and after the move, as dogs have a very keen sense of smell and this too will help comfort them. Before moving into your new home ensure that there are no breaks or holes in your garden fence. It’s also worth ensuring that your dog is microchipped and taking photographs of them in case they escape or go missing. The likelihood is that you won’t need them, but it always makes sense to be cautious. By following these tips your new house will become a dream home for your dog as well as your family.