Getting your dog used to your new home

Posted on 2 March, 2024

Photo by Erda Estremera on Unsplash

Written by Simon for Homesitters Ltd

If you’ve recently moved home or are considering a move to make the most of falling house prices, you might be wondering how you can settle your four-legged friend in seamlessly. Here are some ways you can make your dog feel more at ease in their new surroundings.

1. Establish a routine

Moving to new homes can be difficult for your pets, so establishing a routine early on will give your pet a sense of security and familiarity. The more you keep to your new routine, the better. Dogs are creatures of habit, so it won’t be long before they fall into the swing of things and start to feel more at ease in the space.

2. Leave them with a trusted dog sitter

Move-in day is stressful enough as it is, without having to worry about your dog as well! To make life easier for you and your furry friend, give your dog a break away from the hustle and bustle of the removal van and leave them with a trusted dog sitter or friend while you move.

This will keep them out of harm’s way and ensure they don’t start to get stressed by the change in their routine.

To keep them calm, take them on a long dog walk so they can release any pent-up energy and spend some time sniffing around and playing. Once you’ve done this, don’t forget to pack them off with food, water, and some toys so they can keep busy.

3. Give your dog a safe space

To help your dog get used to their environment on their terms, make sure they have their own safe space where they can be themselves or have somewhere they can escape to if they need some quiet time. A dog bed or crate is ideal. All you need to do is make the space comfortable by adding a few blankets. Then, ensure everyone knows not to disturb them when they’re in their safe spot.

4. Get a microchip

With lots of open doors and boxes as part of the moving process, it can be easy for your dog to go on their adventure! Make sure that your dog’s microchip has been updated with your new address. This must be done before or on the day of your move. You’ll also need to ensure your dog has a collar with a tag - if they escape, you could be breaking the law if your dog isn’t wearing one!

Final thoughts…

When you move house with your beloved animal, it’s important to prioritise their well-being. By establishing a routine early on, leaving them with a trusted dog sitter on moving day and providing them with a safe space to retreat to, you can ensure they adjust to the change with minimal stress and disruption.

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