Nowadays, more families than ever own pets, especially dogs and cats and when the moment comes to move house, our loyal little friends’ lives are affected by this change in many ways. Here at MGR Removals, after some research in the matter, we have decided to put together a list of things owners can do to make the move as stress free as possible for your pets, especially your dogs.
For us, humans, the move may mean the beginning of a new chapter in our lives, a happy moment in general, a move forward. For our dogs, or any other pet for that matter, that may bring on a feeling of anxiety caused by separation from known places and things, new and unfamiliar places that look and sound different, unfamiliar walking routes and a complete new routine.
Here are a few tips that can help you and your dog transition smoothly to your new life. We will give you advice on steps you can take before the removal, on the day of the removal and then in the days following the move into your new home.
Before your move:
- Keep as many routines as possible
- When packing takes place, try to take your dog for a walk or arrange for a family member, friend or neighbour to do it for you;
- Give them lots of love and attention, maybe more than usual, to reassure them as they will be able to feel that something is going on;
- Start planning for the moving they. We advise our customers to ask a family member, friend or neighbour to look after their dog on a moving day;
- If you decide to have your pet with you on the day, find in the weeks leading to the move a spare room that can be locked where you take its favourite toys, blankets or bed, food and treats and familiarize it with the room. You will use this room on the day of the removal and by already being familiar with it, the dog will be less affected by what happens around it.
On the day of the move:
- If you decided to have to dog with you, make sure he is safe and secure locked in the spare room.
- Let the removal team know that you have a dog in the house so they keep the door to the spare room locked and they don’t disturb it too much when moving around;
- Make sure your dog travels with you to the new place and not I the removal van.
After the removal:
- Keep your dog in one place until all your belongings have been moved;
- If the property has access to a garden, make sure that it is secure and your dog cannot run away;
- Update your dog’s microchip or collar with the new address;
- Be aware that sometimes dogs will attempt to return to the old house. Talk to old neighbours, new owner, veterinary practices in the area and let them know that this might happen and if it does if they could hold it for you safely and call you as soon as possible.
- Make your dog as comfortable as possible in the new home;
- Try and keep the old routines like the time for the walks and meals;
- Be on the lookout for any signs of anxiety such as changes in eating and toilet habits, pacing or repetitive behaviour, panting or trembling, escape attempts. If you have any concerns, take your best friend to a vet and they will offer you the right medical advice.
We hope that the above tips will help you and your dog be prepared for the changes ahead and that they will help you settle into your new life.
