Finding the Perfect Home For Your Pooch, And How To Keep Them Safe On Moving Day
If you’re a dog owner in the middle of house hunting or moving to a new home, you have to take your pet into consideration and make sure you’re buying a suitable home for your pooch. Read on to learn about what to look for in a new home, and how to plan for moving day to keep your pup safe and calm so you can focus on having a successful move.
House Hunting
When you have a four-footed family member, you need to take their needs into consideration when house hunting. Be mindful of the space and consider the size of your dog. Make sure the home will have enough room for all your family members, including your pooch. When house hunting with a dog, you’ll also want to make sure the neighborhood is dog friendly and that there’s a dog park or recreational area within walking distance.
The Yard
Ideally, when moving to a new home with your pet, you want them to have a sizable yard where they can get the exercise they need, and enjoy a great quality of life. If the home you’re looking at doesn’t have a fenced-in backyard, you’ll need to put up a fence to keep your pup safe. When considering the cost of the home, don’t forget to calculate the cost of installing a fence. On average, homeowners can expect to pay around $2,750 for a wood fence, depending on its size. Lumber costs on average $7 - $15 per foot, and labor is roughly $10 to $30 per foot. If you’d like to have a gate added, you can expect to pay an additional $200 - $600.
Planning Moving Day
When planning for the day of your move, you’ll need to keep your pooch safe, and help them stay anxiety-free so you can focus on all the other details. Be prepared by packing as much as possible before the move and make arrangements for transportation. If you’re moving long distance, make sure your pooch is up-to-date on all of their vaccines and that they have the necessary medications they need. Ask your current vet for recommendations for a vet in your new city, and make sure you know of any pet laws or regulations. Even if you’re just moving locally, make sure your dog is chipped, and keep them safe during and after the move.
On Moving Day
Make sure you have a plan for moving day that will keep your pet safe. Ask a friend to dog sit for the day to keep your pup away from all the activity. The goal is to keep your pet from being stressed, so if your pet doesn’t get spooked by moving furniture and doors opening and closing, but they struggle with separation anxiety, keeping them close might be the best plan. You can designate one room in the house as a pet room, keep the door closed during the move, and make sure your pet has food, water, and their favorite day bed and chew toy. If you’re choosing this option, be sure that the movers know about your plan.
Making Your Dog Comfortable in Your New Home
When you first arrive with your pet at your new home, ease the transition by keeping your dog on a leash, since they might be confused or stressed as you’re unpacking. Make sure your new home is puppy proof before you let them explore. Try to arrange the doggy bed and toys as much like the previous setup as possible, and stick to your daily routines and feeding schedule. Finally, explore your new neighborhood slowly and don’t overwhelm your dog with all the new sights and sounds.
When searching for a new home, planning for moving day, or settling into your new house, make sure your pooch is safe and comfortable through every step of the way. Find a house and yard your dog will love, and help them transition smoothly to feel right at home.
Robin Meade