Got a furry friend that you need to take with you on a move? You may be stressed out with the relocation, and you can bet your dog is too. They can pick up on your energy, so if you’re overwhelmed and stressed, they will feel that. This is why it’s important to remain calm and help them deal with the transition smoothly. It will be better for both of you!
Because a home move is stressful for pets, especially dogs, be aware of how this change can impact them, and then take the proper steps to ensure their well-being throughout the process. Even if you have a very well-behaved dog, be mindful of the fact that they can act out of character when a relocation is going on. You are essentially taking them out of their comfort zone and plopping them into a whole new environment.
Check out these top tips for moving with your dog.
1. Get Vet Records
If you haven’t already done so, call your dog’s current vet and have them send all the vaccination and medical records to the new vet. If your dog has a tough time in the car for long-distance travel, ask for a sleep med prescription. This can also help with car sickness. If you don’t already have a vet in the new city, ask your existing vet for recommendations. Make an appointment with the new vet now so there’s no gap in coverage.
2. Do Your Homework
Because many cities have breed-specific legislation on dogs, be sure to research this beforehand so you don’t get any nasty surprises. Find out if there are restrictions on your particular dog breed. They may have to be spayed or neutered. Some larger dogs are often banned from condo complexes, apartments and homeowner’s associations, so check the HOA by-laws carefully.
By checking the laws before you move, you can take all necessary steps to ensure your dog meets all requirements.
3. Pack an Essentials Box
Just like you would do for yourself or your kids, your dog will need an essentials box or bag to include everything they will need for the first day or two. This will allow you easy access to the essentials, such as their favorite foods, a leash, toys, waste bags and grooming tools.
4. Update Your Dog’s Tag
Don’t forget to update the information on your dog’s tag to reflect their name, new address and new phone number if applicable. Have you been meaning to get them microchipped? Now’s the best time to do it. If they already have one, get the microchip updated.
5. Take Your Dog With You
Obviously, your movers won’t put your dogs on the truck with all your other belongings, so this will fall to you as the pet owner. You will need to take them in your own car, and that means they need to be properly secured and restrained for the trip. You can use a dog seat belt or place them in a kennel for a safe trip so they don’t distract you while driving or jump out when you stop for gas.
6. Keep Your Dog Secure and Safe
When the chaos of moving day arrives in full swing, it’s important to keep your dog out of the way so they don’t get underfoot or run away scared. Hire a dog sitter or ask a neighbor to take them for the day. If that isn’t possible, place them in a quiet room that no one will use, such as a guest room. Supply them with plenty of food and water, and ensure a comfortable temperature. Check on them every hour and make time to walk them occasionally.
There’s little doubt that Moving Day is busy for all involved. You don’t want Spot to get spooked and run off down the block. The last thing you need on this day is to add a search for a missing dog to your list. This is yet another reason why your pet should be equipped with the right forms of identification, from chips to collars.
7. Ease Them Into Car Travel
With so many factors coming into play when it comes to actually transporting your pet, you’ll have to have a plan set in place beforehand. For short local moves, bring your pet with you in your own car as mentioned above. For long-distance moves that span a few states or clear across the country, consider the many additional challenges involved that will elevate stress and agitation for your dog as well as other family members.
Sure, some dogs love to jump in the car and take a ride to the park with the windows down. For other dogs, this can be an anxiety-ridden nightmare. If your dog is one to get anxious when you suggest a car ride, early preparation is key. Rather than just spring the car ride on them during moving day, it’s best to start out small in the weeks before the move. Bring them on a few short trips around the neighborhood for gradual adjustment to movements, sounds, scenes and new environments.
8. Plan a Hotel Stay
If you are planning a long-distance move and need to stay at a hotel for a night or two, call ahead to find out their pet policy before booking. This will help you avoid surprises when you show up. Not all hotels accept dogs, although some motels may take small ones. Be sure to research lists of pet-friendly hotels in Portland.
Following the above tips will ensure a safe, stress-free relocation for your dog. To that end, you should tell your movers of any special equipment that needs to be moved with care, such as cat condos or aquariums.
Call Portland Move
While we can’t keep your pets on the truck with us, we can make sure their equipment and supplies are packed safely and securely. Trust us with any relocation involving pets, as we are well versed in all manner of residential moves in Portland. Start off with a free quote when you call us at 971-265-6410.