We treat our pets as members of our family. So when we move, they move too! One of the things to do before moving into a new house is to prep our pet for it.
Moving into a new environment and a new home can be stressful. We need to get ourselves ready and our pets too. Tom Ryan, The Nest, “Effects of Moving on Dogs,” says, “Moving to a new home can freak out your dog. All of a sudden, everything from his usual environment — his cozy spot in front of the heater or the carpet beneath his feet, for example — are gone. He’s spending all of his time in a strange, new place, and suddenly, he doesn’t know what to expect at any given time. This can lead to severe problems such as separation anxiety, as he may not feel comfortable staying in this new place all alone.”
Our pets can’t talk, though we sometimes wish they would. All we can do is help ease their burden.
Packing and Prepping
Moving to a new house with your dog is a day to prepare for. They could be nervous and anxious too. One of the things you can do is bring him to the new house before the big day and let him sniff his way out. This will give him the familiarity he needs to be comfortable in the new place.
Show him the boxes and the crates as early as possible so your pets can get used to them weeks before the move. Nathan Ritcher of Natural Pet Organics, “How To Ease Your Dog’s Anxiety When Moving To A New Home,” mentioned moving your dog that “When into a new home, they will most likely feel insecure or feel stress. Ritcher also added, “They may feel so unsure of their new environment that they exhibit symptoms of fear or anxiety. Indoor “accidents”, bad chewing behavior and whining, barking, or howling may be signs that your dog has a bone to pick with you.”
If you are to put him in a crate or a carrying case during the move, introduce him to it weeks before that date. Maybe let him sleep on it for few days to have a “feel” of what’s carrying him during the move. This will lessen the anxiety.
Vet visit
It’s a must to visit the vet before you move. Ensure your fur baby is updated with the necessary vaccines or health certificate before proceeding, which is sometimes needed when moving to a different county. Ask your vet if a sedative is a must during the travel.
In the same article mentioned above, Nathan Ritcher of Natural Pet Organics suggested that “CBD hemp oil extract has been proven by owner testimonial to be a safe, effective hemp oil contains no THC, which is the part of the plant that gets people “high”. remedy for anxiety and stress in dogs. An extraction of the cannabis plant, CBD THC is harmful to dogs, so be sure the supplement you choose is made only for dogs and contains no THC.
Safe and legal, CBD hemp oil extract is easy to give your dog with a drop or two on his tongue or his food. It is tasteless and contains coconut oil as the carrier in addition to the effective hemp oil extract itself.”
You may also want to get in touch with a new veterinarian close to the new place for your pet’s health care.
Tag update
Do not forget to replace their old tag with a new one with your new address and phone number. Settling in a new place and not being familiar with the neighborhood, we can be so sure. They would know where to return our pets when they wander off. Also, having a current photo of your dog won’t hurt – just in case it gets lost.
Old Stuff is Good Stuff
When you settle into your new home, you might not be able to unpack right away. You must be prepared with your pet’s belongings, such as his regular food, favorite toy, or even grooming tools!
Especially on his first night at the new place, let him snuggle with his old blanket, old toys, and old beddings. This will give him the old smell and a sense of familiarity.
Of course, don’t forget to give your dog an extra hug here and there. Showing lots of love is always the best way to make him feel comfortable.