When it comes to moving house, the prospect can be both thrilling and overwhelming, not only for yourself but also for your furry companion. If you’re planning a move in Leicester or the surrounding areas, ensuring a smooth transition for your beloved pet is paramount. Stokes Removals in Leicester is here to assist you on this journey. By entrusting us with your move, you can concentrate on making this transition stress-free for both your human and four-legged family members alike. In this blog post, we will provide invaluable tips on how to prepare your dog for the relocation process and help them settle comfortably into their new home.
Update Your Dog's Microchip Details:
As of 6 April 2016, it became a legal requirement in the UK for all dog owners to have their pets microchipped. This small implant, about the size of a grain of rice, contains important information about your furry friend and serves as a form of identification. It is vital to ensure that the details on the microchip are up to date, as this will improve the chances of reuniting with your beloved pet in case they go missing.
It’s important not to forget about updating this information if you move or change contact details. This way, if your dog does happen to get lost or stray away from home, whoever finds them will be able to quickly access your updated contact information and facilitate their safe return.
Arrange for Pet-Sitting on Moving Day:
Moving day can be a highly disruptive and stressful time, not just for us humans, but also for our beloved canine companions. The sight of movers busily hustling around, boxes being packed and loaded onto vans, and furniture being rearranged can easily overwhelm and unsettle even the most well-behaved dogs.
To minimise the anxiety your furry friend may experience during the chaos of moving day, it is highly recommended to arrange for a trusted friend or family member to pet-sit them. Having someone familiar with your dog’s needs and temperament ensures their safety while providing emotional support in an environment where they feel calm and secure.
During this transitional period, having a pet-sitter helps ensure that your dog remains shielded from potential hazards that may arise during moves, such as open doors or unexpected loud noises that could startle them. Being away from all the hustle and bustle allows them to relax in familiar surroundings while adjusting to the changes at their own pace.
By entrusting your dog to the care of someone you trust, you can also focus on the moving process without constantly worrying about their well-being.
If you’re unable to find a pet-sitter for the day, consider temporarily placing your dog in a calm, safe room away from all the hustle and bustle. This will prevent undue stress or any potential accidents while you move furniture or boxes around.
Ensure a Dog-Friendly Home:
Before you introduce your dog to its new home, it is important to take the time to thoroughly inspect and prepare the space to ensure their safety. Start by checking the perimeter of your property for any holes or gaps in fences or gates that can serve as potential escape routes for your furry friend. Make sure to fix any broken elements promptly to prevent them from getting out and potentially getting lost or injured.
Within the confines of your new home, it is crucial to create a safe and comfortable space specifically designated for your four-legged companion. This area should include bedding and toys, providing them with a sense of security and familiarity in their new environment. Ensure that there are no hazardous objects or substances easily accessible, such as toxic plants or cleaning supplies, which could endanger their well-being.
Once you arrive at your new home, make sure all doors and windows are securely closed before allowing them to explore their surroundings. After settling in, gradually introduce your dog to different areas of the house, monitoring their behaviour closely. Be patient while they adjust to their new environment; it may take some time for them to feel completely at ease. During this adjustment period, provide plenty of positive reinforcement through treats and praise when they exhibit calm behaviour in response to various stimuli.
Maintain Their Routine:
Dogs are creatures of habit, and any significant change in their environment can be overwhelming for them. Moving to a new home is one such change that can cause confusion and stress. To ensure your furry friend feels safe and secure during this time, it is vital to maintain their routine as closely as possible.
Feeding your dog at the same time each day will not only provide them with the necessary nourishment but also give them a sense of stability. Similarly, be sure to stick to their regular sleeping schedule, allowing them to rest comfortably in familiar surroundings despite the changes happening around them.
Taking your dog for daily walks is crucial for their physical and mental well-being, so try not to skip out on these outings even amidst the chaos of moving. Walks offer both exercise and routine, helping your canine companion feel grounded as they explore their new neighbourhood.
After you have settled into your new home, make sure to spend quality time with your dog to reassure them of their place in this unfamiliar environment. Engage in playtime or simply cuddle up together on the couch; this bond-building activity will help ease any anxiety they may still be feeling.
Explore the New Area:
To help ease their transition, it’s crucial to take your dog on exploratory walks around the neighbourhood. These walks will give them the opportunity to familiarise themselves with the sights and smells of their new environment.
Start by taking shorter walks in different directions so that your dog can gradually become accustomed to the area. Allow them to stop and investigate interesting scents along the way, as this helps them feel more at ease. Keep a close eye on their body language to ensure they are comfortable throughout the walk.
Be patient during these exploratory walks, as it may take some time for your dog to adjust to the novelty of their surroundings. Use positive reinforcement techniques such as treats and praise whenever they display calm behaviour or show interest in certain areas. This will help build positive associations with their new surroundings.
As you continue walking together, gradually introduce your dog to their future walking route. Take note of any potential hazards such as busy roads and guide them safely through these areas. Ensure they have plenty of opportunities for toilet breaks during the walk as well.
Moving House with Stokes Removals
Stokes Removals in Leicester have over 50 years of experience providing stress-free removals, allowing you to focus on your pet’s well-being during the move. Remember, a happy and relaxed dog will adapt more quickly to their new home.
If you’re planning a move in Leicester, contact Stokes Removals at 0116 239 3000 for a free, no-obligation quote tailored to your specific requirements.
