When it comes to moving, it’s never too early to start planning, especially when you’re a pet owner. Ideally, you want all the details nailed down before moving day. With planning and knowing what to expect, you and your family (both two-legged and four-) can arrive at your new home feeling as stress free as possible.

The Best Laid Plans

One of the first decisions to make is whether to hire professional movers. To help you decide, consider the following:  

• How much stuff will you be moving? Will it easily fit into a small rental truck, or do you have 20 years’ worth of accumulated belongings?
  
• What kind of stuff do you have, and how easily can you pack it? If you have lots of antiques and/or large appliances, hiring a professional mover might make the most sense. 

• Where are you moving? Are you moving five miles down the road or 2,500?
  
• Do you have the time, health, and resources to take care of a move by yourself? Consider all the heavy lifting and schlepping of boxes as well as how many friends and family members will be available to help. 

If possible, take your dog to visit your new house before moving day. If your pup can go for a walk in his new neighborhood, it will help him feel more comfortable when you move and will reduce the chances of him running away or getting lost. Speaking of getting lost, according to American Humane, all dog and cat collars need to have ID tags with your name, phone number, address, and their name. If your new home has a fenced yard, don’t forget to check every inch of the perimeter to make sure your dog can’t get out and that other animals can’t get in. 

Tips for the Big Day and Beyond
Moving day means people with big boxes going in and out of your house while you are preoccupied and distracted. This can be stressful for your furry friend. The greatest gift you can give him (and yourself!) is to arrange for your dog to be with a pet sitter. Otherwise, you’ll want to confine your dog to a quiet, secure room such as your bathroom. Hang a sign on the door to alert others not to open it. If he’s crate trained, place him in his crate. Just be sure to give him extra walks and plenty of water.

You’ll want to keep all your pet’s items (bed, toys, bowls, etc.) with you in your car. Unpack them as soon as you arrive, and put them in the same places they were in the old house. If your dog is accustomed to finding his water bowl in the kitchen, it’s best for you to maintain this routine. Hold off washing these items until after the move. The familiar scents will help him feel more at home. 

Dogs are creatures of habit, so it’s best to stick to their previous feeding and walking schedules.
Don’t be surprised if your dog reverts back to some of his puppy behaviors, such as having accidents in the house. If your dog was used to relieving himself in a special place at your former home, it may take him time to adjust. Make sure you offer plenty of opportunities for going outside, and when he does, praise him lavishly.

There’s a growing sentiment that a house is not a home without a pet. Congratulations on finding your new house and for being a responsible pet owner. Together, you’ll soon make your new house your home.