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:

1. Make time for extra exercise in the weeks leading up to the move
2. Stick to your dog’s routine
3. Get your pup used to their kennel
4. Pack a bag just for your pooch
5. Talk to your vet if your dog is the anxious type
6. Take an extra-long walk before the movers arrive
7. Confine your dog to one locked room while the movers are in your home
8. Transport your pup in their kennel
9. Take a long stroll around the neighborhood before you go into your new home
10. 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.

Related: 3 Aspen attractions perfect for summertime

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.