Relocating with Your Dog

Relocating can be a stressful experience for all involved. When you have a dog, or dogs to consider, the stress level can increase exponentially!

While anyone can up and move, a successful move with a dog requires careful planning and preparation to ensure a smooth transition for both you and your pet.

Here are some expert tips to help you have a successful relocation with your canine companion.

Where Are We Moving?

No matter if you're changing apartments in the same building, moving across town, or even to a new country, this question is the first step in creating your plan. If you have a specific new address, high tail it down to the pet store and have a new tag engraved with the new contact information and address! Add this tag to your dog's collar as soon as you begin the packing process. You just never know how a dog is going to react and if your dog bolts, you don't want your old address to be the only source of reuniting you and your dog.

Is it Safe to Travel with Your Dog?

Before embarking on your relocation journey, it's essential to ensure that your dog is safe and comfortable during travel. Make sure your pet is up to date on vaccinations and has a collar with identification tags--include both the tags for old and new addresses, if possible, as it provides two points of contact if your dog is lost.

While you may use a collar on a regular basis, during a stressful time such as a move, a slip-proof harness is the safer option. By all means, keep the collar with tags, but add the harness and use it for your leash. Definitely consider microchipping your dog and even adding an air tag to their collar for added security in case they get lost during the move.

Does your dog have any medical conditions you need to accommodate? If they require medication for stressful situations, make sure you have them on hand. If they use daily medications, be certain to have them refilled and/or prescriptions transferred to your new location in advance of the move. If your dog needs physical assistance, like our blind friend Riley, plan ahead and provide whatever visual clues, barriers, or aids which may be necessary.

If you're moving out of the country, please ensure all medical records are up to date and the necessary processes known well in advance. Know if quarantine is going to be required and how to manage it.

How to Prepare Your Dog for the Move?

Help your dog adjust to the upcoming move by gradually introducing them to the moving boxes and packing materials. Create a box just for your dog's belongings and slowly add items to it. Leave the top open so your dog is free to remove his items if he becomes stressed. Also, make a game of tossing items in the box and letting your dog retrieve them; this will help alleviate fears that you're getting rid of their precious belongings. This box should not be packed until the very last. If possible, bring it with you when your transport your dog to the new location and make unboxing it an occasion!

Maintain your pet's routine before, during and after, as much as possible to reduce stress and anxiety. Consider using pheromone sprays or calming supplements to help your dog relax during the relocation process.

Please, be extra vigilant to your dog's whereabouts and behaviors. Pacing, drooling, glassy eyes, and heavy panting are signs of distress. Many dogs panic either during or right after the move and dash out the door; others will naturally go into hiding when frightened, which can lead to panic on your part if you fear they've escaped. 

Create a safe zone for your dog--like a dark closet, or under the bed, or even a comfy mat in the tub where they're free from the sounds and actions of the move --ahead of time and encourage use with a bribe when you first see signs of distress. This will instill a sense of safety and they will be more inclined to hide out here. 

If you cannot ensure an escape-proof space, perhaps secure your dog in another room and include a BIG note on the door to prevent others from accidentally letting your dog out!

What to Pack for Your Dog?

When packing your dog for travel, don't forget to include their favorite toys, blankets, food, water, and medications. Pack a travel bag specifically for your pet with all the essentials they will need during the journey. Make sure to have a first aid kit for your dog in case of any emergencies.

How to Travel Safely with Your Dog?

When traveling with your dog, ensure they are secure in a well-ventilated crate or a pet seatbelt.

If your dog is accustomed to travel, then they'll be ready for a ride. However, if you are traveling a great distance, or never take your dog for rides, it's advised to begin with short outings. If your new location is nearby, by all means travel to that area and let your dog sniff the smells of the area.

Never leave your pet unattended in a vehicle, especially in extreme temperatures. Take frequent breaks during the journey to allow your dog to stretch their legs and relieve themselves.

If you're traveling by air with an in-cabin carrier, introduce the carrier weeks ahead of time and get your dog used to going in it and being confined. Start off with a quick in and out, work up to a few minutes of confinement, then increase the time accordingly. Speak to your vet about any additional suggestions they have for your specific pet or guidance if your dog is traveling in the cargo hold.

Should you be utilizing an airport potty-spot, it may be beneficial to also introduce artificial turf or pee pads to your dog ahead of your travels. They're going to be uncertain of the entire process and expecting them to relieve themselves on an unfamiliar surface doesn't always go well. 

What to Do Upon Arrival?

Once you arrive at your new home, set up a designated area for your dog with their bed, food, water, and familiar items (the box unpacking occasion). While still leashed, walk your dog through the new space, then through the yard and around the neighborhood to help them acclimate to their new surroundings. 

Just as you did pre-move, be extra vigilant of your dog's whereabouts, keeping doors secured and fence gates closed for the first few days or weeks, depending how comfortably your dog is settling in. While it may be overkill, keep the harness and/or collar on your dog for the first day or two; if they attempt to bolt you can better catch them or they can be identified by whoever finds them.

Establish a routine as soon as possible to help your pet feel more comfortable in their new environment--this means for the first few days, you need to adhere to a schedule of potty breaks to help prevent accidents or marking inside.

By following these expert tips, you can ensure a successful relocation with your dog. Remember to be patient and understanding with your pet during this transition period. With proper planning and preparation, you and your furry friend can settle into your new home smoothly.

We wish you a safe and comfortable move! Make sure to check out the array of beds, blankets, carriers, harnesses, collars and leashes in our store!