Moving to a new home can be stressful for pets, especially dogs. Their life is largely based on familiarity and routines. When their familiar sights and smells are upended, dogs are quite likely to get too stressed and anxious. The team of Safe Ship Moving Services therefore mentions that pet parents should follow a few simple strategies to make the moving process easier and smoother for their furry friends.
Safe Ship Moving Services underlines strategies for making a move smoother and easier for dogs
One should start to desensitize their dog to the sight of moving boxes and other moving supplies before starting to pack. Dogs can notice a change in the routine very fast, and therefore, it is important to make sure that they are prepared for it. One can simply place a few moving boxes against a wall or in a corner at the start, and let the dog explore them at their own pace. If the dog seems to be scared or worried about the moving supplies, pet parents may create a positive association by tossing a yummy treat their way when they approach the boxes on their own.
After the dog gets used to the presence of the boxes, one can eventually start bringing in more packing supplies and move them around the house. The goal of doing so is to make the moving supplies a positive, or at least a neutral thing in the minds of the dogs.
Even as the moving day gets closer, pet parents should try to stick to their dog’s routine as much as possible. Their regular walking and feeding times should especially be maintained. Consistency helps keep the dog feel safe and relaxed, as they know what to expect. If they experience too many changes at once, the dog can get very anxious.
If one’s new home is in the same city or town, then they should try to take their furry friend for a walk in the new neighbourhood ahead of time. This would allow them to explore the place, and take in all the smells, sounds and sights. Exploring the new neighbourhood beforehand would help the dog feel more comfortable and acclimated after the move.
The schedule of the pet parents is likely to become too hectic as moving day gets closer. However, they still need to make sure that their dog is getting enough physical exercise. To get a bit of the move-related burden off their shoulders, one can always hire companies like Safe Ship Moving Services that specialize in coordinating and managing a move. Doing so would free up one’s time, which they can spend playing with their dog. While regular walks are important, a bit of off-leash time in a safely enclosed area to play fetch would help keep the dog in great shape and less stressed.
One should consider hiring a dog sitter for the actual moving day. Pet parents would be too busy on the day of the move, and having a dog underfoot would just make things more complicated. Moreover, the chaos of the moving day can also be very stressful for the dog. Therefore, it is better that one’s furry friend is away for the day.
