Moving can be a stressful process not just for humans but also for their pets. The process of packing, change in routine, as well as unfamiliar sights, smells, and sounds in a new home can be quite overwhelming for one’s furry friends. Hence, during a move, one must try their best to help their dogs adjust to their new environment and make them feel safe throughout the process. The team of Safe Ship Moving Services mentions that proper preparation and planning are important for doing so.
Safe Ship Moving Services discusses valuable tips for moving with dogs
Relocating to a new home is not an easy task. The transition can be both exhausting and stressful due to the packing and heavy lifting involved. No matter whether one is moving to a different city or state, thorough planning and preparation would be extremely important for a move. Apart from considering how to transport belongings from one place to another, pet parents must also ensure that their dog is well-prepared for the transition. Helping one’s furry friend to adjust to a new home is often as important as the move itself.
Here are a few valuable tips that should be followed when moving to a new home with a dog:
- Familiarizing the dog with moving supplies: It is better to buy the moving supplies at least two weeks before starting to pack. These supplies should be kept in a low-traffic area at home, like a spare room or an unused corner of the living room. Adequate care should be taken to avoid placing packing supplies in areas where the dog generally rests, plays, or eats, so that their daily routine is not disrupted and that they can continue to enjoy their usual comfort zones.
- Encourage positive associations with moving supplies: Dogs must be never unattended around moving supplies, as some of these materials can pose safety hazards. However, it is ideal to allow them to explore the packing supplies under supervision. If a dog shows interest in moving boxes or packing materials, pet parents should take steps to reinforce a positive association by offering treats and praise. Playing with the pets near the packing supplies or incorporating these items into games can make the presence of these unfamiliar objects feel less intimidating to them.
- Maintaining mental and physical stimulation: Pet parents should try their best to make sure that the routine of their furry friends stays as consistent as possible throughout the move. Regular walks and playtime must be maintained to provide both physical and mental enrichment to the pets. Interactive training sessions can also be helpful.
The team of Safe Ship Moving Services mentions that pets’ favourite room at the house should be packed last, so that they have a sanctuary amidst the chaos of a move. Allowing the pet to stay in their familiar space for as long as possible would help provide them a sense of security. Calming background noise, like soft music, can also be played in the room to reduce anxiety. One may keep a treat-dispensing toy or a chew toy in the room to keep the dog occupied.
