Learn How To Move Houses When You're A Dog Owner
If you're a dog owner, it's likely that moving house will be on the cards at some point in your life. It can seem daunting and difficult enough to do without having a four-legged friend tagging alongside. You'll be busy packing and preparing for your move, yet be additionally anxious to keep your dog happy.
If you are in this situation right now there's no need to worry about it. This blog post will show you how to move houses with your dog happily in tow. We'll cover everything from taking the journey to your arrival and settling in period.
Choose An Experienced Removal Company
If you choose wisely the packing, transportation and arrival process will be as painless as possible. In your case, you'll want a team that has plenty of experience when it comes to moving dogs. It's therefore important to check their credentials online before booking anything and to speak with them about any issues or concerns.
It was estimated that the population in Sydney, Australia would reach 6.251 million during June 2021, and it therefore hosts multitudes of houses containing pets. When people seek removalists in Sydney they often want customized door-to-door services and access to packing materials. Besides providing extra storage facilities and crates, some companies also provide specialist pet transportation. When companies specifically offer this service, it provides greater peace of mind for dog owners.
Understand How To Transport Your Dog
Secure dog crates can be a safe and humane method of transportation. These enclosures prevent any movement from within during transit whilst providing air circulation and protection from the outside elements. If your pet will be traveling on the back seat of your car, you'll need to be sure it attaches securely. You may wish to check out some of the practical Youtube videos that exist on the subject.
If you don't use a dog crate, it may be possible to use a customized harness or seat belt. It will need freedom of movement during the journey, i.e. the ability to stand, sit and lie down. Never transport a dog that is loose in the car or stored in the boot. Your pet will need regular rest breaks to stretch its legs, go to the toilet or have a drink - just as you will.
If you need to briefly leave the dog alone in the car, keep a window open to provide ventilation and think about parking in the shade.
Introduce Your Pet To The New Home
When you arrive, take your pet on a guided tour. If necessary, keep it on an extendable lead for a few days to prevent it from wandering off into unknown territory. Introduce your pet to its new living space and try to have some familiar scents in this area. Dog toys and bedding can be great for this purpose, so it's wise not to have everything washed and cleaned before the move.
Be patient with your pet as it sniffs its way around the home and slowly explores every nook and cranny. Encourage it along the way, providing plenty of praise and support as it goes through the process. Whilst puppies are more adaptable, senior dogs are more likely to take longer to settle in
Provide An Element Of Familiarity
This may entail unpacking your pet's favorite toy or dog blanket as soon as you arrive. This can help provide a 'home from home' while it adjusts. Take your time to unpack the other items so the dog doesn't become too unsettled or overwhelmed.
Whilst your pet is familiar to you, it will be a stranger in your new locality. For this reason, you should ensure the ID tag or microchip data has been modified to note your new address. Also, update the dog collar details because all these things are a legal requirement. From your angle, you will be keen not to lose your pet if it goes astray, and these measures can help you be reunited as soon as possible.
Put Safety First
This is especially applicable if you have a senior dog or one with mobility issues. Make sure your pet only has access to the areas that are safe, being sure to close doors where applicable. Close off access to dangerous steps, stairs or floors.
You'll also need your pet to be contained while you begin to unpack and empty the crates.
Tire Your Pet Out
As with humans, pets sleep better when they are physically tired. Resist the temptation not to walk your dog on day one, even though the terrain will be unfamiliar and you will be tired.
When your dog returns home, introduce a pet chew that can keep it occupied. These activities will help reduce your dog's anxiety to all that's going on around it.
Maintain The Dog's Routine
Dogs are creatures of habit, so try not to change everything all at once. Honor the existing walking and feeding times. Allow it's usual afternoon nap time or the hour it spends messing around with the kids.
Let the dog play with its toys as normal and sleep at its regular time of the evening also.
Look After Yourself
Dogs are sensitive animals and they know when something is up. They will have felt unsettled as you began to pack, and more so when you arrived at the new location. Whilst the house moving process can be stressful, try not to let your anxieties rub off on your pet. Try and maintain good levels of sleep each night so that you are best placed to have the energy and patience to look after your dog.
Whilst we've discussed a lot of things, it's not wise to feel overwhelmed. Think of all the other people who have moved house with their pets and done so without a hitch. Whilst your dog may not adjust instantly, neither will you. In a short while, however, you will all feel at home in your new environment and be ready for many happy years together with your family and pet.