How to Help Your Dog Settle in Your New Home
Moving to a new home isn’t easy. Especially for your dog. But you can make the adjustment period less stressful for your pooch by following the tips in this article.
Stick to the Regular Routine
Pets thrive off of routine. But moving can disrupt everything. No matter how crazy life gets, try to follow your dog’s routine throughout the entire moving process. After you move, don’t give up that routine. Continue to follow it as your dog adjusts to your new home. Of course, moving will inevitably change some aspects of your life. This can affect your pet’s schedule. If possible, put off those changes for a few weeks. This will give you enough time to gradually transition your dog into a new routine.
Provide Lots of Exercise
More energy equals more stress. Exercising your dog will help your canine release pent up energy, which will then reduce your dog’s stress. So, be sure to keep walking and playing with your dog before and after the move.
Get Down on Your Dog’s Level
Getting on the floor of your new home will add your own, unique scent to the ground level, where your dog is most likely to smell it. This will help your pup feel more comfortable in an unfamiliar house.
Set Up Your Dog’s Space ASAP
As soon as you are in your new home, set up a special spot for your dog. Your pup’s bed, blanket, toys, and other items will offer comfort in the midst of all the changes taking place. Although you might want to rush out to the pet store to grab new doggy supplies, it’s best to wait. Allow your dog to keep his or her old possessions until your four-legged buddy has acclimated. Once your pet is ready for new items, don’t give them to your dog all at once. Instead, replace them one at a time.
Combat Anxiety
Some dogs struggle with anxiety. If that sounds like your dog, moving will be extra difficult for your fur baby. You might want to speak with your veterinarian about it. He or she can advise you on anti-anxiety medications. If you are looking for a more natural approach, there are plenty of calming aids on the market that have been created specifically for dogs. You could also try playing soothing music. You can learn more our Blog for Music for Pets.
Show Some Patience
Each dog adjusts to a new home at a different rate, so we can’t tell you how long it will take your pooch to acclimate. But no matter how long it takes, you must be patient. And we should point out that your dog might show signs of anxiety, such as having a few indoor accidents or refusing to leave your side. Dealing with your dog’s anxious behaviors will also require patience.
Give a Little Extra Love
While moving, your dog needs your affection more than ever. No matter how busy you are with packing and unpacking, don’t forget to shower your pup with lots of love. This will also benefit you. After all, you will need a break from time to time when the stress of moving overwhelms you. What better way to recharge than to snuggle with your faithful friend?
Don’t Rush Off Right Away
If at all possible, take some time off from work after moving in. Spend most of your time off at home. Having you around will help your dog adapt to living in a new house more quickly. You should slowly work on leaving your dog home alone. During the first 3-4 days after moving, try to avoid leaving your home for longer than a few moments at a time. If you live with others, it’s okay to leave for longer periods of time as long as there is at least one person in the house with your dog. After the first couple of days, your dog can be left completely alone for 10 minutes at a time. Continue to add more time each day, until your dog feels perfectly at ease being home alone. As your dog works through this process, leaving treats behind might make it easier on your canine. For example, filling a Kong with a special snack is a great way to keep your pet occupied with a pleasurable activity during your absence.
Even though moving might be hard for your dog, providing extra love and attention will help your canine work through it. Soon enough, your dog will love your new home just as much as you do!
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About the Author:
Savanna Westwood
Savanna Westwood is the Owner and Founder of The Savvy Sitter, Pet Sitting and Dog Walking, LLC. She has grown up with animals all her life and enjoys spending time with them. Savanna has lived in the Winter Garden and Windermere Area for over 30 years. When she is not taking care of Fur Friends, one can find her reading, practicing archery, riding, and devising ways to provide additional and excellent services to clients. Savanna is a Certified Professional Pet Sitter with Pet Sitter International's CPPS certification and also holds certification in Pet First Aid and CPCR for Pet-Care Professionals.
