Moving Home with Dog

Moving home may be exciting for you, but it may be stressful for your pet. To make the move as stress free as possible for your pet, there are a number of actions you can take before moving day. For more help, visit us at Browning Park Mini Storage in Benton, AR.

Visit Your Vet

Update and get copies of all vaccinations to give to your new veterinarian and/or to a kennel that you might use for temporary boarding. Having copies of all medical records for your pet is especially important if your pet has ongoing medical problems.

If your pet is not microchipped, consider doing this before your move in case the worst happens and your pet runs away from your new home. A microchip can help to locate him.

Be Friendly to Your Pet

If your move will involve a multiple-day drive, take some time to map out your route to locate pet-friendly accommodations for overnight stays. Call the hotel offices to confirm that the words ‘pet friendly’ showing on the website are true.

And when you book your room, be sure to mention that you want a room where your pet will be welcome in case the ‘pet friendly’ rooms are limited in number.

As moving day gets closer, begin to customize your pet to his travel carrier. Put his favorite toy or blanket inside so that he’ll become comfortable with the space. By doing this, your pet will feel less stressed on moving day.

Confirm Your Pet’s Air Travel

If you’ll be traveling by air, book your pet’s space directly with the airlines rather than trusting a third party. Don’t take a chance that a miscommunication creates problem on this important event.

Become familiar with the airline’s restrictions about cost, crate sizes, and required vet records. Do this well in advance so that you don’t have any surprises at the last minute.

Leaving Home

While the house is being emptied of all familiar belongings, place your pet in his crate in a closed room so he doesn’t look on in terror at the changes taking place.

Bring favorite toys and blankets in the car if you’re driving to your new home. Don’t forget to bring a leash to use at potty stops. Even if your dog is well trained, being in a different environment along with the obvious changes happening can scare your dog.

Be sure to have your pet’s health certificate handy – just in case.

Arriving at Your New Home

Once again, do your best to shield your pet from the chaos as your furniture is being brought into your new home by strangers. Keep him in a closed room until the movers have left.

Your pet picks up very easily on your emotions, so try to be calm to help him stay calm. Take some time to sit with him and pet him. If your pet wants to investigate, walk along with him and talk in a gentle voice. Show him where his food and water bowls are to help him get used to the new environment.

Now that you are prepared to move your pet, contact us at Browning Park Mini Storage in Benton, AR, for your moving and storage needs.