Did you know that 63.4 million American households own dogs? But what happens when those households need to move to a new place? A lot of people move with their pets but should follow some tips to ensure that they are comfortable during the process.

Read on to learn about how to move with a dog using seven tips.

1. Maintain the Same Routine

Knowing how to move with a dog depends on the dog itself. However, one thing all dogs can benefit from is keeping the same routine before and after the move to make them feel more comfortable. This means serving them their meals at the same time as usual, taking daily walks, and giving them the same affection.

Chances are, even when you continue the same routine while packing up your items, your dog will suspect that something is up. They may follow you around suspecting that you might be abandoning them. With affection, you can try to assure them that everything is alright.

After moving into a new place, keeping the same routine you did at the old place is crucial. It may even be a good idea to give them more playtime until they feel at ease in the new spot.

2. Reduce Stress and Anxiety

Just as you may be struggling with stress and anxiety during the move, your pet may be too. Moving with a dog is a lot easier when you help them reduce their anxiety.

You can do this by using natural calming products and exercise. Accessories are ranging from shirts to vests that can help calm a stressed dog. During pet transportation, you may find that essential oils and hemp oil are beneficial.

Exercise helps reduce stress and anxiety in a dog because it releases endorphins. In fact, going on a run with your dog could aid both of you if the stress is overwhelming. Going on long walks will also suffice if you aren’t a runner.

Playing in the backyard for longer than usual can also keep a dog calm. More exercise also means your dog will be exhausted by the end of the day, giving them no time to have stress.

3. Choosing the Right Moving Method

Moving with pets, in general, takes a lot more consideration than moving without them. You may have to choose a different moving method overall because of your furry friend.

Hiring professional movers is one method that makes owners’ life way less stressful. With a professional moving company, you don’t have to lift anything or handle the process on your own. However, having strangers around taking your stuff away may be stressful for your pooch.

Luckily, having someone to do most of the work for you means you can focus your energy on your pets. Dog transportation during a move with a moving company should be completed by the owners.

You could also recruit your family and friends to help you move. This is an inexpensive way to get things done, although it may take longer than expected. It is also a great way to make your dogs more comfortable moving to a new place.

Knowing how to move with a pet during the COVID-19 pandemic is a little different. For example, if you planned on flying to your new destination with your pets, you may need to change your plans. Some airlines have halted air pet transport, read more now.

4. Creating a Checklist

Knowing how to move with a dog requires more than thinking about transportation. Having a new address means updating important records for you and your pet.

Some of the basics include ordering new tags, updating online microchip information, and finding a new vet. Don’t forget to get your pet’s old health records to take with you in case of an emergency.

Most importantly, pack a bag for your dog just as you would for yourself. This should include their food bowls, a blanket, a leash, and their favorite toys. This will help them feel more comfortable during the ride and when you arrive.

Your checklist should also include pet-proofing the new home before you arrive. This could mean something like purchasing gates to prevent your pet from getting out. You also may be required to register your dog in the new city you move to.

5. Introducing the New Home

When you arrive at the new home, let your pet explore the place including the outdoor area. You can use the leash to walk your dog around the entire house and let them sniff around for as long as necessary.

While your dog is exploring the outdoors, check for any dangers you may have missed since the last time you saw the house. It is especially crucial to know if there are any poisonous plants in the yard that your dog may get into.

After the outdoors have been checked by your dog, let them inside. Keeping them on a leash even inside is recommended because it will help them feel less stressed. This way you can guide them through the home one room at a time.

6. Create a Safe Space

You don’t want your pet on a leash constantly in the home. Even when they are still getting familiar with the new place, it is important to let them off the hook.

To keep them comfortable when they are off the leash, create a safe space for them filled with their favorite toys and their comfy dog bed. This lets them know that the new place is safe for relaxing.

7. Settling In

Don’t be alarmed if your dog doesn’t eat or use the restroom enough after the move. It will take them some time to settle in and get back to their normal self. Generally, dogs will get comfortable after just a week of being in their new home.

How to Move With a Dog Explained

If moving is a stressful adventure for you, imagine what your dog is going through. Knowing how to move with a dog depends on the location of the new home and the dog itself. Using this guide can help you get through the basics of moving with your pet.

Keep coming back for more articles with tips about taking care of your pets.