How to Make Relocation Smooth Even If You Have a Dog

Moving tends to be such a stressful time, and not only for humans but for your furry pets as well! If you plan to move with your dog (or dogs), it can be just as tough, if not tougher, as they adjust differently to the change. 

But not to worry, keeping the relocation smooth with a dog doesn’t need to be such a difficult process. Read on as I show you the best advice from professionals such as Delco Experts. 

Keeping Relocation Smooth with Dogs

Having a hard time moving with your dog? Follow these tips to prepare ahead:

1)Plan Ahead and Avoid Surprises

You wouldn’t want to be caught off-guard if your new neighborhood doesn’t allow dogs, or dealing with local government rules and regulations. Here are a few smart tips to prepare YOURSELF with your dog as you begin the moving process:

• Look into the local laws and see if your pet requires a new license. While your landlord is fine with you having a big dog on the premises, it may not be allowed by neighborhood associations or insurance companies.
• Never wait until your dog gets sick after the move to search for a vet. Conduct research to see if your pet needs new vaccinations when moving to the new area. Also, look into your area and see if it has any ticks, heartworm, or risk of leptospirosis, so you know what action to take for your dog to stay healthy.
• If you haven’t had your dog microchipped yet, now is the time to do so. Also, place your new contact details on their collar.
  

2)Prepare Your Dog

You won’t want to surprise your dog and have him experience an entirely new change; he won’t be able to take it as well, especially as dogs love routine! Prepare your dog for the long journey ahead by:

• Crate train your dog if you need to for the move. While most dogs would be okay staying in crates, they may still feel stressed if it’s their first time during moving day. Be sure to use a high-quality crate.
• If you have traveled and packed your suitcases before, you may have noticed some agitation on your dog’s end. They may feel even worse once they see the entire house being packed up! Condition your dogs by having only a few boxes and suitcases out ahead, so they won’t associate certain objects with leaving. 
• If your dog needs to live by different rules in your new (smaller or bigger) home, then it’s time to train them now, even before the official moving day. For instance, you may need to train them to stop barking if you have closer neighbors, or stick to bathroom schedules if they can’t go out on their own.
• Even before the moving day, get your dog used to the new environment by taking them to areas with similar environments, as well as simulating any new noises. If the move isn’t too far, then you can take them to the new neighborhood and even meet the new neighbors!
• During the moving day, consider asking your vet about calming medications and anti-anxiety gear.

3)What to Do On Moving Day

Once moving day arrives, pack everything your dog needs for the trip, such as his food, water, favorite toys, bedding, and towels. Prepare for the worst (in case your dog becomes separated) and prepare all necessary documents. Also, if you have last-minute moving errands, consider bringing the dog to a pet sitter to prevent them from feeling stressed over the hustle and bustle.

During the move, make sure they are safe and comfortable in the car, having enough ventilation and security. Only feed them lightly and during long trips, give them a bathroom break and some time to stretch their legs. This can help them feel at ease and also keep them more comfortable, rather than having them stay in the crate for hours on end. 

Wrapping It Up

Whether you plan to move to the hustling and bustling city, or to a new house in the suburbs, relocation would be a tough time for all dogs. This is because a new place would bring a ton of new sights, smells, sounds, and feelings, leading to sensory overload. With the right tips to help your furry ones adjust, as well as patience and consistency, they’ll be able to make the transition smoothly. 

Hopefully, these tips on relocating with your dog’s gave insight on how you can prepare and go through your move. So, start looking into these tips and follow them to keep your dogs as comfortable as possible. 

Do you have any questions or want to share your tips and experiences on relocating with dogs? Share it in the comments section below, all your thoughts are much appreciated!