7 rules to moving with dogs

Keeping fur babies safe during a move

At Local and Interstate Removals we consider the whole family – including our fur babies as well. Humans aren’t the only ones that go through the process of moving – pets do as well. There are some things you can do to make the move easier for your furry four-legged friends. Whether it is a local move or far away, you want to keep your fur babies safe. Our team have put together our tips.

1. Consider the location you’re moving to and is it suitable for your fur baby

   1. Walking areas/parks

   2. Living conditions – what is the yard like, the weather conditions, safety of the yard – can they get out etc

   3. Surrounding animals – explore the area with your dog on a walk and take note of other animals in the neighbourhood and consider how this will affect you and them – if you can introduce them – even better!

2. Be thorough in the cleaning of your old home – when moving ensure that you leave your previous property in great condition including any damage caused by having a dog in or outside. This will leave you with a good record as an animal owner in a rental residence and get you your bond back. Here are some things to consider:

   1. Carpets – cleaning and mending any areas stained, clawed or chewed

   2. Doors – repair any doorways or skirting boards that are damaged (scratched/chipped)

   3. Assess the backyard for any damages, fill in any holes and replace any grass where needed. Remove any debris or broken/old toys, bones etc.

3. Consider your dog in the process of the move – dogs pick up on our energy so if you’re feeling anxiety as a result of the move, chances are your dog is too! Be sure to keep their things out (toys, bowls, beds, blankets) and pack them last right before you move. They attach to items and scents so this will help them feel safe even if everything else is shifting around them. Spend extra time with them too and show them extra love.

4. Make plans for moving day and how your dog will travel. Have someone puppy sit on moving day, so your dogs aren’t privy to the activity and anxieties of the day or under everyone’s feet as you move. This also reduces the chances of your dog getting out through open doors, gates etc. Arrange how your dog will travel to the new property ahead of time and pack and move their belongings with them. When you arrive at the new property, lay their things out in the new property where your dog will spend most of their time.

5. Keep routine! Dogs are big on routine so ensure that you settle into the new house quickly without a change to routine. Tips to do so:

   1. Stick to usual time of day i.e. feeding time, walk time etc. Stick to what you usually do, wake up at the same time and so on.

   2. Don’t wash their blanket – keep it smelling as it was at the old property for comfort

   3. Make sure they have their favourite things around them – toys, old t-shirts that smell of you etc.

   4. Try not to leave them alone for long periods of time in the first stages of this change for them, have others look after them if possible, instead.

6. Update their tags, details and vet clinic. If you’ve moved to a different area and will be changing vets – speak to your existing vet for recommendations of a new vet in your area and having the records transferred over. Also be sure to update your dogs’ tags, microchips and registration details ASAP with the new contact details.

Keeping your possessions and family safe throughout the moving process is of upmost importance. Whether you have a local or interstate move, we can guarantee that you, your fur babies and your possessions will be looked after. Call us today on 1300 705 705 or find out more about our services here