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Moving to a new home is exciting, but it can also be stressful especially when moving with a dog. Dogs don’t like big changes and relocating can make them anxious or confused. That’s why planning everything properly is important to make the process comfortable for them. This blog will give you the 10 best tips for moving with a dog to help them adjust to a new environment.
From packing strategies to setting up their new space, these tips will ensure your pup feels safe, happy, and at home in no time. If you don’t have any experience, you can work with a trusted company like Cali Moving and Storage San Diego that has experience moving with pets.
Getting your dog ready for a big move takes a little planning, but it can make a huge difference in how smoothly things go.
There are many things you need to do but you should always start by scheduling a vet visit. This ensures your dog is healthy and up to date on vaccinations. If your move is short, it’s not essential but if you’re moving long distance, you should ask the vet for tips on keeping your dog calm during travel. This will make moving dog to new home easier and you won’t have to worry about your dog’s health.
Once you know your dog’s health is good, you should start making them feel comfortable with travel. One great way to do that is by taking them on short trips to help them adjust to car rides. If you have a smaller dog or puppy, it’s better to get a carrier to make the journey easy. This is especially helpful if you’re moving with a puppy or moving dogs across country.
Don’t forget to pack a pet bag with all their essentials. Include enough food, water, and their favorite toys or blankets to keep them comfy. A familiar smell can work wonders in calming nerves. You’ll also want to have a leash and waste bags handy for pit stops. If you keep all these items, your dog will feel safer and it will be easier for you to move with your dog. If you’re not sure how to pack properly, you can check out these packing tips to make packing fun and easier while moving with pets. You can also look for professional moving services in San Diego if you don’t want to do it yourself.
Moving can be an overwhelming process for your dog, and it might feel chaotic and confusing. Here are some simple tips to keep your furry friend safe and calm while making the transition easier:
On the moving day, your home will be cluttered and chaotic. People coming, movers taking the stuff in and out, boxes piling up, and plenty of noise. For a dog, this can be overwhelming and stressful. If you want to make your dog feel relaxed and comfortable, you should set up a quiet, secure space for them in your home. Choose a room that’s away from the main action, like a bathroom, bedroom, or a cozy corner in the house. You can add their favorite items like a comfortable bed a few toys, a water bowl, and scents as they can help soothe their nerves.
If you don’t have time, you can take the help of a professional to keep your dog entertained, ensure their needs are met, and provide the comfort of companionship. One of the best places to keep your dog is at a doggy daycare where they will spend the day playing with other dogs and being cared for by professionals, completely removed from the stressful moving environment.
Feeding your dog a large meal right before traveling can increase the risk of travel sickness, especially if they’re not used to being in a car for long periods. You can feed your dog a light meal a few hours before you hit the road. This gives them enough time to digest and reduces the likelihood of any accidents or upset stomachs during the trip.
Your dog will take some time to adjust to your new home, but with a few thoughtful steps, you can make them feel safe and comfortable right away.
One of the first things you should do after moving a dog to a new home is set up a designated area with all the familiar items like their bed, blanket, and favorite toys. Since dogs are sensitive to changes, this will make them feel secure and comfortable.
You should not let your dog roam free around the house at once. The best way is to let them explore the new place at their own pace. You can start with one or two rooms and these should be spaces you’ll frequently use, like the living room or kitchen, with their bed, toys, and water bowl nearby. Once they become familiar and you notice them being relaxed and happy, you can gradually let them discover the other areas.
The place is changing but that doesn’t mean the routine should. Sticking to your dog’s regular schedule is a great way to make them feel less anxious. Feed them at the same times, take them on walks like you normally would, and maintain playtime. When you keep the routines familiar, it helps your dog understand that, while the surroundings have changed, their life with you remains the same.
If you’re moving cross country with a dog, you should be more careful as it might be more overwhelming than a local move. While it requires some extra planning, it’s manageable with the right approach. Here are some tips you can follow:
This is one of the main points of this how to move with a dog guide. If you feel that your move is going to take more than a day, it’s better to plan for overnight stays. Many hotels and motels welcome pets, but it’s better to research pet-friendly accommodations in advance to avoid surprises. You can keep your dog’s bed or a familiar blanket as it can make their overnight stay more comfortable.
You should always carry your dog’s medical records during long moves. So if an emergency arrives, you can have vaccination and health history ready to provide the right treatment faster. Along with this, you must ensure you’ve packed plenty of food, water, and any medications your dog needs for the journey. Along with this, maintain your dog’s safety while traveling by using a crate, harness, or pet barrier to keep them secure in the car. This not only ensures their safety but also helps reduce their stress by creating a familiar space.
Once you’ve arrived at your new home, it’s time to help your dog settle in and feel comfortable. The post-move transition can be just as important as the move itself when it comes to your furry friend’s well-being.
It’s normal for your dog to take time to adjust to their new environment but you should keep an eye out for signs of stress, like excessive barking, hiding, or loss of appetite. Don’t panic or do anything if you see these behaviors. Give them more time, love, and reassurance. Also, stick to the normal routines to give them a sense of normalcy.
To make your dog more familiar with the sights, smells, and sounds of their new environment, you should take them on short walks around the neighborhood. Try to increase the length of the walks gradually and keep increasing as they start feeling more and more comfortable. Moving house with a dog can be challenging but you can make it easier with the right approach.
Once you’ve settled in the new area, you should find a good vet as soon as possible. You should research nearby clinics and schedule a check-up to ensure your dog’s health records are up to date. This way you will be prepared and know where to go in case of emergencies.
Moving with a dog takes extra thought and care, but this how to move with dogs will help you execute everything safely. A dog is more than a pet. They’re family and their comfort should be a priority during such a big life change. If you don’t have experience, it’s best to opt for Cali Moving and Storage San Diego's services to make your move easier.
By preparing early, maintaining their routine, and creating a safe space during the move, you can ease the transition for your furry friend. If you’re still not sure about how to transition a dog to a new home, you can check out our guide on moving with pets to get more information.
