Moving house is stressful for all of us, and dogs are no different. Sure, they might not need to do any of the packing or paperwork, but it’s still a big change for them as they leave their familiar surroundings and scents.
Of course, we need to make sure we pack all of the best dog toys and treats for our pooches, but what else should we do to help them when we move? Well, Pooch & Mutt’s resident vet Dr Linda Simon has provided six tips to help prepare our pups for the big move. Let’s take a look.
“Packing up your life is stressful, and dogs are quick to pick up on the changes in their environment,” says Dr Simon. “The chaos of packing can cause anxiety in dogs, but there are ways to mitigate their stress.”
1. Create a calm atmosphere: “Try not to fuss over your dog too much as you pack as they’ll quickly feel that something’s not right,” she says. “The best thing to do is act as normal as possible; maintaining a calm and reassuring presence.”
2. Lots of distraction: It’s important to keep your pup busy – and you might feel the benefits too! Make sure you can take some time away from packing and sorting things to take your dog on a nice, long walk, visit some of your dog’s favorite loved ones, or play in the yard! The busier you keep them, the less likely they’ll be to notice the changes going on around them.
3. Enrichment and mental stimulation: Similarly, you can keep your pup busy and tire them out with plenty of enrichment and mental stimulation! Grab the snuffle mats, treat stuffers, and anything else you might have in the cupboard. Here are 11 dog enrichment ideas that will keep your pooch entertained!
4. Leave their favorite things out: “While packing, remember to keep your dog’s stuff out until the last minute,” says Dr Simon. Even though you’re packing up everything else, they’ll still have their favorite things with their scent on, providing plenty of familiarity.
5. Visiting your new area: Dr. Simon also recommends taking trips with your dog to the area you’re moving to. Not only will you help them get used to the new neighborhood, but it’ll break up the mundanity of packing for you, too.
6. Make plans for moving day: “If moving day would be easier and safer without them there, ask family or friends to watch them for a couple of hours,” says Dr Simon. “Alternatively, you could take your dog and their belongings to the new house first or last. This way they can explore in their own time without any distractions.”
Remember, too, that even when packing, it’s important to make sure that your home is safe for your dog and that you don’t leave anything out that could harm them. For a quick refresher, here’s how to puppy proof your house and yard.
