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July 9, 2019

Pet Parenting 101: How to Get Your Pet Acclimated to a New Home

According to the AMSA, 35 million Americans move each year. That’s a lot of packing and unpacking, which most of us dislike. Pets are skittish about moving, too, as they’re usually lost in the mix wondering what all the commotion is about.

As an owner, it’s essential to keep your pet calm and cooperative. With some smart pet parenting, though, you can make things run more smoothly.

Use these techniques to make your next moving day a success.

Pet Parenting Tips for Moving

Even the best-trained pets require special attention during the moving process. They need lots of love and affection to keep stress levels low.

Crate Train Them Ahead of Time

If you haven’t done much traveling with your pet in a crate, start as soon as you know you are moving. Get them comfortable with traveling inside the crate before the big day comes.

For dogs too big for a carrier, start taking them on car rides. Get them accustomed to riding in your car before moving day.

Prepare them for the New Home

Before you move, start getting your dog used to its new world by acquainting them to similar environments or by simulating new noises.

If you aren’t moving too far, walk them in the new neighborhood. Introduce your dog to the scents in the area and if possible, introduce them to the new neighbors.

Retain their Favorite Things

When moving to a new house, it’s standard to want to buy new furnishings. Your dog might have trouble adjusting to all the new sights and smells, so to help them transition easier, take plenty of familiar items that they like.

The old dog bed, a rug, pillows, etc. are all great because they retain lots of familiar scents.

Use Lots of Positive Reinforcement

Your dog might act out if he feels overwhelmed by the move. It’s essential to deflect and calm him down, rather than react and scold. Give him lots of attention during the move and reward him with some treats and plenty of praise.

When you arrive at your new home, use treats and rewards again to help him explore. Take some time out to sit by him on the floor after arriving at the new home. This will help him feel included and provide you a chance to slow down all the activity.

Pet-proof Your New Home

Put away potentially dangerous items like cleaning supplies and materials as well as human food as you unpack. Take measures to pet-proof all areas of your new home.

If you have a fence, inspect it for loose boards or sections where your dog could escape. Keep your dog on a leash, as it will take some time for your dog to learn where he is allowed to explore inside as well as outside.

Create a Familiar Set-up

Arrange your dog’s bed, crate, and toys as close to your old arrangement as possible.

Get back in the routine of your dog’s prior feeding and walking schedules as soon as possible.

Keep Your Pet Safe During the Move

If you can, take your pet out of your home during move out and move in. You don’t want them slipping out when doors are open as items are carried in and out of your home.

If you don’t have anywhere to take them during the move process, designate a “safe room” in your home where they can stay until all of the moving activity is completed. Make sure that it is clearly identified and communicated to everyone as “off-limits” for the safety of your pet.