Moving to a New Home with Your Dog
We all know moving to a new home is a stressful task, but did you know that moving is also stressful for your dog? It’s true. As we honor our dogs on #NationalDogDay, we’d like to offer you some tips to prepare your furry friends for a move.
First of all, try to keep your pet’s routine as normal as possible ahead of your move. Keep his or her immediate needs in mind as you prepare to move, making sure food and water bowls, leash, and favorite toys are readily available. Begin packing over a period of two weeks so you can tend to your pet’s everyday needs.
It’s important to remember updating your pet’s identification tags. Consider purchasing new tags for your dog with updated information (new address and current phone number) prior to your move so they are ready once you are in your new home. If your pet has a microchip, you will need to login to the provider’s website to update your contact information.
On moving day, ensure your dog is in a safe, quiet, and comfortable room when professional movers or other helping hands arrive. If your pet is left underfoot while your belongings are being moved out, they may escape your home (or new home) through an open door. Alternatively, you can ask a trusted friend or relative to care for your pet for a few hours as movers load and unload your belongings.
As you begin to settle into your new home and make it yours, you will need to make it your pet’s as well. You can start by making sure your new home has been cleared of odors from any previous pets that lived in the home. Otherwise, your dog’s territorial instincts may be triggered, and no one wants their furry friend marking up their new home. Set up your dog’s belongings so he or she can immediately recognize familiar items, which may include: bed or crate, toys, food and water bowls. If you buy a new toy or treat for your pet, they will positively associate your new home with fun.
Be mindful of items that are harmful to your dog. Be sure to look for anything hazardous within your dog’s reach, including:
- Cleaning Products
- Insect Repellent
- Pesticides
- Medications
- Poisonous Foods or Plants (i.e., Grapes, Onions, Chocolates, etc.)
- Worn Appliance Cords or Exposed Wires
- Falling Objects (Unsecured Items on Appliances or Furniture)
- Open Doors / Inadequate Fences
Once you’re settled in, go out and explore your new neighborhood with your dog, always on-leash. Your dog may get confused and try to escape. You will need some patience as your dog will want to explore the new sights and smells.
Have fun as you make your new house a home; dogs sense your emotions and will follow your behavior. Stay positive, and enjoy your new home!
Learn more about selling your home and relocation in the Bay Area by visiting www.jodigroup.com.
Celebrate National Dog Day with us, and meet the pups currently up for adoption at San Francisco SPCA.
