How To: Moving With Dogs

The key to a smooth move starts well before moving day. Dogs thrive on routine and familiarity, so sudden changes can be overwhelming. Taking small, thoughtful steps in the weeks leading up to your move can help ease your dog into the transition and prevent anxiety before it starts.

Here are a few things you should get squared away before moving with a dog:

Update Their Information

Make sure your dog’s ID tag and microchip are up to date with your new address and phone number. If you’re moving to a new city or state, check with your vet to see if any additional vaccinations, health certificates, or preventative medications (like flea, tick, or heartworm treatments) are required for the area.

Familiarize Your Dog With Supplies

Cardboard boxes and packing tape might not seem like a big deal to you, but to your dog, they’re sudden changes to their environment. Gradually introduce moving supplies by letting them sniff boxes, walk around packing materials, and get used to the sounds of tape and shifting furniture. This slow exposure helps normalize the process and lowers stress levels.

Keep Your Regular Routine

As your home fills with boxes and your schedule gets hectic, try to keep your dog’s routine as normal as possible. Walks, meals, playtime, and bathroom breaks should all stay on their regular schedule. Predictability creates a sense of safety, which is crucial as things around them start to shift.

Dogs feel secure when they know what to expect from their day. A consistent routine provides a sense of predictability, which can greatly reduce anxiety and stress. This is particularly important for dogs that are naturally anxious or have had unstable backgrounds. When your dog knows when they’ll be fed, walked, or sleep, they’re less likely to engage in anxiety-ridden behaviors like excessive barking, chewing, or pacing. –Wag Well

Plan Ahead for Travel Comfort and Safety

Whether you’re driving or flying, your dog may need extra support to travel comfortably. If you’re hitting the road, set up a secure, cozy spot in the car and take your dog on a few longer drives ahead of time to help them adjust. If they’re not used to being in a crate or carrier, start confinement training early so they feel safe and calm in a smaller space during travel.

For air travel, research airline pet policies and make sure your pup meets all health and crate requirements. Some dogs experience anxiety during travel, and in those cases, your vet may recommend calming medications or supplements. If your dog tends to get nervous, it’s a good idea to discuss options early and have what you need on hand before the big day.

Traveling With Dogs by Plane

• Obtain a health certificate from your vet to meet airline requirements.
• Choose an airline-approved carrier and line it with an absorbent mat for comfort and accidents.
• Familiarize your dog with the carrier in advance to reduce stress during the flight.
• Pack calming aids, like vet-approved medication or dog earmuffs, if your pup is sensitive to noise.
• Double-check airline pet policies ahead of time to avoid last-minute surprises.
  

It’s finally here—moving day! With so much going on, it’s easy for your dog to get overwhelmed or overlooked in the hustle. Whether you’re traveling by plane, car, or keeping your dog nearby during the move, the goal is the same: keep them safe, calm, and as comfortable as possible.

Leaving Your Dog In A Safe Space

If you’re not able to keep your dog with you during the chaos of moving day, it’s important to create a quiet, secure space where they can feel safe and calm. Choose a room that’s far from the hustle of movers and the noise of packing. Fill it with familiar items, like their bed, toys, and maybe a piece of your clothing to provide comfort. You can use baby gates or a crate to limit their movement and keep them away from the commotion.

Hiring movers to help you load and unload your belongings can give you more freedom to make sure your furry friend is taken care of. If you’re not hiring movers, consider asking a trusted friend, family member, or pet sitter to stay with your dog throughout the day. Additionally, consider playing calming music or a white noise machine to help drown out the sounds of the move, making the environment feel more like home.

Throughout the Day

Throughout the move, it’s important to offer your dog plenty of reassurance. Positive reinforcement with treats, praise, and affection can go a long way in calming their nerves. Pay attention to signs of stress—like pacing, whining, or panting—and take action if needed. Keep their favorite toys, blankets, or something that smells like you nearby to help them feel grounded. Lastly, remember to stay calm yourself; your dog can sense your energy, so maintaining a relaxed and patient demeanor will help them feel more secure during this hectic time.

Your new home offers a chance to explore fresh, exciting outings for your dog! Research nearby dog parks, walking trails, or pet-friendly hiking spots where you and your dog can enjoy time together. These new adventures will not only provide your dog with much-needed exercise but also help them get comfortable with the new area. Frequent visits to these places can also aid in reducing any anxiety about the new environment by associating it with fun, positive experiences.

Once your dog starts to feel comfortable in your new home, it’s time to think about socialization. Meeting new neighbors, their pets, and even other animals in the neighborhood will help your dog build positive associations with the new environment. Always start slow, and monitor your dog’s interactions to ensure they’re comfortable. Positive social experiences help prevent fear or aggression towards unfamiliar people or animals as your dog settles into their new life.

Taking Precautions

As you settle into your new neighborhood, it’s important to consider any potential hazards for your dog. Take time to walk around and assess things like busy roads, aggressive animals, or hidden dangers in the yard or surrounding areas. Also, check for safe places for your dog to roam, like nearby parks or walking paths. Understanding your dog’s comfort zone and gradually introducing them to new areas can ensure they feel secure and know where it’s safe to explore.

Conclusion

Moving with a dog can be a thrilling adventure, but it’s not without its challenges. The transition to a new environment can be a lot for your furry friend to process, especially with the added stress of travel, packing, and unfamiliar surroundings. However, with careful planning and patience, you can ease their anxiety and help them adjust to their new life.

By preparing well in advance—updating their info, introducing them to moving supplies, and establishing a travel plan—you’re setting the stage for a smoother move. Once the big day arrives, prioritize your dog’s comfort by providing a safe, familiar space to retreat to during the chaos of moving. Once you’ve settled in, gradually introduce them to their new home, return to their regular routine, and explore local parks, trails, and socialization opportunities to make the new area feel like their own.

Remember, your dog will look to you for guidance and reassurance during this period of transition. Be patient and gentle as they navigate their way through the changes. With time, care, and love, your dog will settle into their new home and start to enjoy the adventures that come with it, just like you!

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