Moving House with Dogs.

Moving House with Dogs. 

As most people know, moving house can be one of the biggest stressors in a person’s life. It can also impact on our pets, who often find disorder and a new environment difficult to cope with. If you are planning to move house, it’s worth putting a few plans in place to ensure your dog stays calm and relaxed. This Holidays 4 Dogs articles will provide a few hints and tips for when you are on the move with your dog.

Before you move.

• When showing prospective buyers around your home it is best to keep your dog out of the way. Not everyone likes dogs.
• Keeping dogs can often make the house smell a little musty. A thorough clean before you show buyers around  is often a good idea – many people will be put off by doggy odours! Don’t forget to scoop any poop that may be in the garden, too.
• While packing, make sure any hazardous materials are not left exposed. Many dogs will be tempted to investigate open boxes and bags.

Moving day.

• It might be an idea to keep your dog confined to one room, especially if he is a known escape artiste. Make sure the removal men know which room the dog is in. With people coming and going and doors constantly open it would be easy to lose your dog while everyone is busy. Make sure your dog is wearing clear identification just in case.
• If possible, walk your dog before the removal men arrive and packing begins – your dog is more likely to feel calm after exercise.
• Feed your dog his normal meals but avoid giving food too near to departure time, in case of upset tummies during the journey.

When you have settled in.

• Double check the garden is safe and secure. Close all doors and gates and allow your dog some much-needed freedom.
• There will be many new smells for your dog to get used to. Some dogs may find this unsettling for a short while. If you have an non-neutered dog, watch out for any territory marking behaviour in the new house.
• If your dog is unreliable off the lead, keep him on a lead for the first few walks in a new area. Don’t forget to update the details on your dog’s microchip and collar tag.

The majority of dogs cope perfectly well with changes in routine and new environments, but not all. Nervous and less confident dogs will need more attention to help them adapt to their new home more quickly.

If you are not moving too far out of your original area, you may even want to consider placing your dog with one of our Holidays4Dogs approved carers for an overnight stay.