Unlike humans, who are typically thrilled to begin a new chapter in their lives, pets frequently find relocating stressful. Unfamiliar sounds, scents, and sights. Uncharted territory to explore. New dogs to meet and strange neighborhood cats to pursue. The good news is that there are tons of strategies to help your pet adjust to the major house move and feel more at home before and after it. Continue reading for these tips.

Introduce your dog to the new neighborhood early

Consider acclimating your dog to your new neighborhood before your major relocation. If the place is accessible, you can take your puppy for walks around the neighborhood. This will help them to get used to the new surroundings and smells. That way, it won’t be such a huge shock when you finally arrive.

Bring familiar items

Relocatable homes make it easier to move with pets. Why, you may wonder. It is because they maintain familiarity. This is essential since dogs dislike too much change. Bringing your dog’s old bed, toys, blankets, and other belongings to the new place will instantly create a homey atmosphere. This will help your dog feel less stressed.

Therefore, even if your old dog bed is coming apart, resist the urge to get a new one when you move. Your family pet will adore it and need it to settle in.

Maintain a routine

Establishing a schedule as soon as possible—ideally, the day you move in—is crucial when preparing a dog for a new environment. Your dog will feel at ease if you go through your daily ritual with them. Maintain your regular activities with the dog, such as feeding in the morning or taking an evening stroll. This way, your pet will become accustomed to the space faster as the days go by.

Assist them in releasing energy

A tired dog is a happy dog! Excess energy can lead to elevated stress levels. Therefore, exercise is essential to reducing anxiety and keeping your dog calm during the transition period. Try playing a lengthier game of fetch in the garden or extend your typical stroll (it should be simple because there will be new streets to discover). Your dog will adjust to the change more readily if you can assist them in letting out more energy.

Provide plenty of attention

As the human in the household, moving might be stressful and time-consuming, but don’t forget that your dog will require additional care to get through it. Give your dog enough attention since they want to know that you are still around! Remind your dog that the new environment is a happy, positive place to be by playing with toys, practicing training techniques, giving them delicious treats, and just being there for them all the time.

Safeguard your dog

Loud noises, like the siren of a passing police car or the barking of a neighbor’s dog, can scare away anxious pets. Putting a collar, name tag, or microchip on your dog can help maintain their safety.

The takeaway

Always be your dog’s companion and maintain familiar routines to help them acclimate to the new environment.