How To Handle Moving With A Dog?
As with the previous case, moving with a dog presents challenges of its own, in many ways, the same or similar as those mentioned before. Dogs too tend to get stressed out easily , and you'll have to make some preparations in advance for moving your dog to a new home, especially if you plan on relocating long-distance.
Desensitize Your Dog
On the moving day, your pawtner is going to see lots and lots of packing boxes, moving supplies, and so on. Since dogs react to abrupt changes in the routine, the sudden sight may stress them out. Your priority should be to get your little pal acquainted with the sight beforehand.
This way, when the moving day draws near, your dogs won’t feel overwhelmed at the sight of the moving supplies.
You won’t have to do much, just place some packing boxes out in the open in your house so your dog can see them and get used to the sight, this way you’ll have a much easier time moving your dog. If you notice any signs of stress, treat your dog with something they'll love to eat or relieve them otherwise .
Your goal here is to have your dogs associate the boxes and moving supplies with something positive, or at worst, neutral, not negative.
And with your supplies out in the open, you won’t have trouble finding the stuff on moving day, thus you’ll have a much better time moving your dog to a new home.
A win-win for all!
Stick To The Routine
Moving your dog to a new home does not have to be a nightmare, in fact, you don’t even have to behave as if a major change is underway. It would be better if you don’t – your dog will sense a change in routine, so make sure you show your pet that all is well.
By keeping the routine consistent, you will instill a sense of calm and reassurance for your dog.
Update The Microchip
This is pretty much the same as discussed before; if you don’t have a microchip, get one , and if you do, make sure that it is up-to-date.
Visit The Vet
On top of a regular checkup, you should also consult with the vet about the vaccination requirements of moving your dog cross country . Also, make sure you get in touch with a local vet near your new place in advance, just in case.
Exercise & Entertainment Can Help
As the moving day draws nearer, you’ll have more and more work on your hands, but do reserve some time for your dog – give it regular exercise and entertainment. Routine walks can help, but you need to go beyond that, perhaps with games of catch or by letting your dog play with other canine companions.
Swimming exercises are also a great way to fire up those doggy muscles.
As for the entertainment, make sure that your canine friend has all of its favorite toys at paw, so the fun never ends for them.
Exercise and entertainment have the same positive mental effects on dogs as it does on humans, so there is much merit in both pursuits.
Hopefully, this will put you in a much better position for moving your dog to a new home.