How to help your dog cope with the upheaval and stress of a house move
December 14, 2023
A house move is a big change for the whole family to process. The team at Claygate Vets understand that this is often a stressful and turbulent time, but Veterinary Surgeon Darren Partridge is urging dog owners to not forget how their pets could be coping with the upheaval.
To help dog owners in Surrey with a house move, Darren and our veterinary team at Claygate Vets have put together advice on how your canine companion can learn to accept a house move. This will make the process a lot smoother for owners and their dogs. Our experienced team of dog vets are available to advise on an individual basis too, just book an appointment ahead of the big day.
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1. Keeping to your dog’s routine
Our Claygate team know that most dogs and their owner have a daily routine. This may fluctuate slightly, but on the whole, it is highly likely your dog is fed, walked, played with and cuddled at a similar time every day.
As you are moving house, it will help your dog to adjust if you stick closely to this routine. Your behaviour and feelings will also have an impact on your dog’s stress levels. Trying to remain calm will in turn help your dog to react and behave as normal.
If you have the option of introducing them to your new home beforehand, it could help them to settle in more quickly. If not, then try to take them on some new local walks to get them used to the neighbourhood.
2. Your old home
Packing your home up into cardboard boxes can often be emotional and time consuming. Especially if there is a dog ‘trying to help’!
Vet Darren Partridge recommends packing gradually so your dog will get used to the changes in their living environment over time. Also, keep their bedding and toys out for as long as possible. These familiar belongings will help to provide them comfort if their old home is starting to look a little different in the run up to the move.
3. Moving day
Once you arrive at the new house, you need to ensure your dog is safe and secure as your belongings are unloaded. If possible, set up a safe space in your new house immediately for your dog. Use their normal bed, blankets, toys and bowls and work on positive associations. The scents of their items will help to make them feel at ease in an unfamiliar environment. You will need to be patient with your dog during this transition period. Work on establishing their routine in the new home and stick to it as closely as possible in the beginning.
4. After you have moved in
There will undoubtedly be a lot of administration to complete once you have officially moved into your new home. On this list, make sure you include updating your pet’s microchip details and also updating your account details here at Claygate Vets.
Darren believes that if you follow the guidance set out in this article, you are providing your dog with the best chance to become happy and settled in their new home as quickly as possible. If your dog suffers from anxiety, or you are concerned that a house move could affect them more seriously, contact us so we can help you make a plan.
Contact us for more advice
