Man’s Best Friend: Tips for Moving with Dogs

Published: July 08, 2020

No doubt you have a favorite place in your home. Perhaps it’s the couch. Or the recliner. As you are probably already aware, your dog might have a favorite place in your home as well.

When you move, you and your dog must adjust. And you can ease the transition from one domicile to another for your beloved furry child. You can rationalize and reason; your dog cannot. You might be moving to a nearby location. You could be going across the country or to another country. It won’t be easy, but let’s keep it from being too traumatic for all parties concerned.

Planning helps a lot. As you are packing, your pet will realize something is going on and may suffer a little anxiety. You can ease that with more walks and more attention, or perhaps some calming treats. Extra play time helps the pup expend extra energy that might not have an outlet while you’re busy packing or unpacking. Planning will also be beneficial to you. If a Realtor is showing your old home, try to arrange for those visits while you are out with the dog. If you are home when potential buyers come by, please crate the dog and keep it from the folks inspecting the property. The fewer strangers and disruptions, the better.

Are you buying or renting a new place? Be sure the new home (or HOA) permits pets (some limit the size of the animal, or the number of pets). Have vaccination records handy in case they are requested. Do you want a fenced yard? Make that a priority in your search. Also check to see if there are dog parks or pet-family areas in the neighborhood. Your dog can then make new friends … and so can you.

Determine whether you are flying or driving to your new residence. Driving takes longer with a dog. You must make more frequent stops and you’ll want to bring sufficient food and water. Flying? Smaller dogs can fit in a carrier under your seat. A larger animal must go via the cargo hold while crated, which can be stressful. Older dogs may not weather this well.

There will be much to do when you reach your destination. Dog items: Update tags, find a new veterinarian, establish a new routine. One more tip: Don’t launder your dog’s bed or blankets before the move. Those familiar smells in a new home will help her adjust and find her new favorite place.

For more information and help with your next move, contact UNITS Moving & Portable Storage today!