Moving Tips For Dog Owners

Moving cross country with your dog can be stressful. This is why it's important that you plan ahead to make sure your dog's safety is assured both during and after the move. The following tips can help you avoid some common issues.

Tip #1: Talk to your vet

A long car ride or trip on a plane can be very hard on some dogs, especially those that suffer from motion sickness or become anxious in the car. Your vet can provide you with a sedative that will help relax your pet during travel. It's important to get this from your vet instead of trying an over the counter remedy, since your vet can prescribe the right amount for your dog's breed and weight.

Tip #2: Stay safe when loading

The act of loading things into the moving van or unloading at your destination can be especially stressful for a dog. Even those not prone to wandering off will sometimes bolt if given the chance during the anxiety-inducing act of moving. For this reason, it's vital that you use a safe room at both your old home and the new. Choose a room where you can shut the door. Place a bed or your dog's crate, along with food, water, and toys. Place a sign on the door so the movers know it is off limits. This not only prevents running away, it also provides a stress-free zone for your pet.

Tip #3: Always use a leash

If you must stop for rest breaks or for an overnight stay on your move, then always secure your dog's leash before opening the car door and do not let them off leash unless you are in a secured area. The stress of the move can sometimes make your dog behave in an unpredictable manner, and you don't want them to run away or get lost far from home. Even if your dog is used to running off leash, it's best to avoid it until they are well settled into their new home.

Tip #4: Update their tags

Before embarking on the move make sure their tags and microchip are updated with your new contact information, just in case they do get lost. If you will not have contact info until you have arrived at your destination, then consider using your old vet (with permission) or a close friend or family member. You can have custom tags engraved with the information, which comes in handy in case they are picked up by someone that doesn't know to check the microchip.

For more information about moving with a pet, contact a business such as Pet Novo.