If you’re moving to or from Aspen with your four-legged family member, you probably already know that they’ll be just as stressed about it as you are – but fortunately, there are ten things you can do to smooth out the process and make it easier on both of you. This guide explains.
10 Tips for Helping Your Dog De-Stress When You Move
Check out these ten helpful tips for helping your dog de-stress when you move:
- Make time for extra exercise in the weeks leading up to the move
- Stick to your dog’s routine
- Get your pup used to their kennel
- Pack a bag just for your pooch
- Talk to your vet if your dog is the anxious type
- Take an extra-long walk before the movers arrive
- Confine your dog to one locked room while the movers are in your home
- Transport your pup in their kennel
- Take a long stroll around the neighborhood before you go into your new home
- Let your pup explore when they’re ready
Here’s a closer look at each.
Tip #1 for Helping Your Dog De-Stress When You Move: Make Time for Extra Exercise in the Weeks Leading Up to the Move
If you want your dog to stay calm during the move, start by making sure they’re getting enough exercise in the weeks leading up to it. A good rule of thumb is at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise per day – but more is better, especially if your pup is prone to anxiety. If you don’t have time for a daily walk, consider hiring a dog walker or taking them to doggy daycare a few times a week.
Tip #2 for Helping Your Dog De-Stress When You Move: Stick to Your Dog’s Routine
Help your furry family member feel more comfortable before your move (boxes and packing can be confusing to pups!) is to stick to their routine as much as possible. This means keeping their mealtimes, walks, and playtime schedule as consistent as possible in the weeks and days leading up to the move.
Related: 5 great pieces of advice for home-sellers
Tip #3 for Helping Your Dog De-Stress When You Move: Get Your Pup Used to Their Kennel
If you’re going to be transporting your dog in a kennel during the move (and you should), it’s a good idea to start getting them used to it a few weeks in advance. Put their food and water in the kennel and let them eat in there, or put a treat inside and let them find it. The goal is to make the kennel a positive place – somewhere they associate with good things.
Tip #4 for Helping Your Dog De-Stress When You Move: Pack a Bag Just for Your Pooch
Moving can be chaotic, and it’s easy to accidentally pack up your dog’s food, toys, and medications. Make things easier on yourself (and your pup) by packing a bag with all of their essentials a few days before the move. Also, make sure you have their vet and shot records on-hand. This way, you won’t have to worry about losing track of anything on moving day.
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Tip #5 for Helping Your Dog De-Stress When You Move: Talk to Your Vet If Your Dog Is the Anxious Type
If your dog is prone to anxiety, it’s a good idea to talk to your vet before the move. They may be able to prescribe a calming medication or give you some tips on how to keep your pup calm during such a stressful time.
Tip #6 for Helping Your Dog De-Stress When You Move: Take an Extra-Long Walk Before the Movers Arrive
On moving day, take your dog on an extra-long walk before the movers arrive. This will help them burn off some energy so they can relax – which is especially important if you have strangers coming in and out of your home.
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Tip #7 for Helping Your Dog De-Stress When You Move: Confine Your Dog to One Locked Room While the Movers Are in Your Home
While the movers are in your home, it’s best to confine your dog to one room – preferably one that has a door you can close and lock. This will help keep them out of the way and prevent them from getting scared or stressed by all the activity. It’ll also prevent them from darting out the door while it’s open.
Related: 3 things sellers want from buyers but usually won’t ask for
Tip #8 for Helping Your Dog De-Stress When You Move: Transport Your Pup in Their Kennel
When it’s time to load up the car, put your dog in their kennel – even if you’re not going far. This will help them feel safe and secure, and it’ll prevent them from getting underfoot or trying to jump out of the car.
Tip #9 for Helping Your Dog De-Stress When You Move: Take a Long Stroll Around the Neighborhood Before You Go Into Your New Home
After you’ve moved all your belongings into your new home, take your dog on a long walk around the neighborhood before you go inside. This will give them a chance to explore and get familiar with their new surroundings – and it’ll help them work off any residual stress from the move.
Related: 7 homebuying secrets most people don’t know
Tip #10 for Helping Your Dog De-Stress When You Move: Let Your Pup Explore When They’re Ready
After you’re settled into your new home, let your pup take their time exploring. Go at their pace! You may even want to block off some rooms to prevent your pup from getting overwhelmed.
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