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Thinking of Moving?
Tips to Find the Right House for Your Pooch and How to Make the Move Less Stressful for Everyone
There’s no doubt that moving is one of life’s most stressful moments. Moving is stressful for all family members, including your four-legged companions. With some careful planning, you and your dog will both feel better about relocating to your new home.
House-Hunting Considerations
It is important to keep your dog in mind during the house-hunting process. While it is easy to fall in love with your dream kitchen or a backyard pool, little or no space for your pooch will ultimately make everyone unhappy. However, by keeping several key considerations in mind, you’re sure to find a home that your pet loves.
Interior
One very important factor when it comes to the interior of your new home is the flooring. Carpeted floors tend to harbor pet hair and they are easily ruined by pet urine. Hardwood flooring is somewhat better, however, your dog’s claws may scratch the surface. The most durable flooring for homes with pets are tile and laminate.
Other interior considerations include stairs, the house layout, and sunny windows. Elderly dogs might have a harder time with stairs, which may result in your carrying them more. The layout of the house should allow for running, playing, and relaxing. Speaking of relaxing, your dog is sure to enjoy a nap by a large sunny window, making the house windows and light another important consideration you should keep in mind.
Here’s something to keep in mind when you’re bidding farewell to your old place: Lingering pet odors leave a bad impression, either for landlords or potential purchasers. As such, investing in a professional cleaning service will not only save you time, but it will also leave the interior of your home smelling great. Typical costs for house cleaning services in Madison, Wisconsin area ranges between $101 and $205.
Exterior
A fenced yard is a top priority for most dog owners. For homes with existing fences, inspect the fence for any needed repairs. If a home does not have fencing, carefully consider the best type of fencing for it and the estimated cost.
Check the landscaping for any plants that are harmful to pets. Azaleas and ferns, for example, are poisonous to some animals. If you are unable to identify some of the plants, ask a friend or local garden club for assistance.
Moving Day
Experts claim that moving is among life’s most stressful events. It is a disruption of our lives that focuses on the pressure of limited time, along with saying goodbye to a familiar place. While it is easy to become overwhelmed with logistics, it is important not to forget the impact of moving for your dog. If the move is a short distance from your current home, consider placing your dog with a pet sitter for the day; fortunately, you can find reputable pet-sitting services online without too much hassle these days. Using a sitter keeps your pooch away from the chaos and in a much calmer environment.
Safety Measures
Double check that your dog is microchipped and be sure it has identification. Microchipping and identification are both useful tools should your dog escape the vehicle during a stop.
For dogs that are not used to riding in a car, take them for practice drives before the big day; this helps them become familiar with the sights, sounds, and motion of the car. If you plan to transport your dog in a crate (you can find crates and carriers on Amazon for as low as $26.99, depending on the size you require), allow them to become familiar with it in advance of the move. You can also consider soft-sided pop-up crates for your car.
Stick to Routine as Much as Possible
For long moves, like those to another state, sticking to a routine may not always be possible due to road conditions or traffic. However, regular eating times can help dogs to relax.
Exercise breaks are great ideas for you and your dog. During a long road trip, find safe areas to walk your dog. The fresh air and stretching of the legs are a refreshing way to re-energize you and your dog for the rest of the trip.
Once you arrive at your new home, be patient with your dog as they adjust to their new surroundings. You’ll soon discover that your pet loves your new home as much as you!
Photo via Unsplash
