Tips and tricks to move with your dog

You've found the perfect place for your family, and moving without your dog is out of the question. Are you worried about the preparations, the move and the adjustment period? This article is for you!

Before moving

Preparing for a move can take days, even weeks. Here's how to help your dog during this time.

Packing boxes

Filling boxes and dismantling furniture can create stress or excitement for some dogs, but there are ways for you to help them stay calm. First, when you decide to pack boxes, give your dog an activity or game that will keep him busy, such as a Kong filled with pate food or a smart bowl with treats.

If your dog follows you around and won't let you out of his sight, keep treats in your pockets and reward him when he obeys basic commands like "sit", "down" or "stay". This will keep him stimulated and focused.

Identification

Remember to check the condition of your dog's collar and leash, so they don't give way in the excitement of the day. You can also use a harness to reduce the chances of your dog running away (it's easier to escape from an ill-fitting collar). If you haven't already done so, update his ID tag and microchip data with the correct information. Finally, find out which shelter or pound is responsible for your area.

Health

It's very important to make sure your dog's vaccinations are up to date before moving in. Some viruses can remain in the environment for months, even after repeated cleaning. The same applies to outdoor parasites, most of which can survive for years in spite of our cold winters.

Visits

If you're planning to do some work before moving in, it's a good idea for your dog to accompany you for short periods of time. In this case, bring soothing items such as his cushion and a bone. Once you've given your dog time to sniff around, you can keep him busy in a dedicated area.

It will give your dog a positive association with this new environment. This kind of training is highly recommended for nervous dogs!

Moving day

It's the big day! Here's what you can do to make sure the move goes smoothly for your dog.

Dog boarding

If you've got your hands full and you know you won't be able to keep a close eye on your pet, why not choose a boarding kennel or ask someone who knows your dog well to look after him? That way, your dog will be in a controlled environment for a few hours.

Transportation

If your dog loves riding in the car, all the better! If the road is long and your dog isn't very comfortable in the car, here are a few tips:

• Ideally, take a car your dog is used to.
• Give your dog a comfortable, safe place in the back seat.
• If you have to make several trips, make sure someone stays with your dog in one of the houses to avoid unnecessary travels.
• Do not feed your dog just before leaving, but rather at least 2 hours before the trip.
• If you know your dog suffers from motion sickness, you can easily obtain a safe medication from your vet.
• In the car, offer your dog a toy or a Kong filled with surprises to keep him busy.

New surroundings

The first thing to do when you arrive at your new home is to encourage your dog to relieve himself in the designated area. This will help him settle down and mark his territory.

Next, make sure all the furniture is already in place to avoid unnecessary stress for your companion. Set up his cushion, cage, a few toys and his water bowl to give him his bearings.

Finally, just give him time to get a good sniff of everything. For the first few nights, you can also have him stay close to you, as it's not advisable to leave your dog alone in a room or basement.

Settling in your new house

Here's what you need to do to ensure a smooth integration into your new home.

Be there for your dog

To reassure your dog, it's best to be around for a few days. Since we usually move in the summer, it's a good time to take a few days off.

Establish a routine

The first weeks:

• Take your walks at the same time each day and use the same path.
• Take several minutes each day to play with your dog
• Give your dog meals and treats at the same time every day.

You'll see that your dog will quickly settle into his new environment. Happy moving!

Checklist

• If you're moving to a new town, don't forget to check the municipal by-laws concerning animals. Make sure you know how many animals you're allowed, which breeds are prohibited, and what the requirements are for microchipping and sterilization.
• Finding a new veterinarian can be difficult. Contact the clinics in your new area as soon as you know you're moving to get on the waiting lists. Once you've moved, make an appointment as soon as possible to develop a relationship of trust with your new vet.
• If you're moving to a new region, find out what parasite prevention is needed.
• Pack a small bag with all your dog's essentials. That way, you won't have to search for his bowl or toys in the boxes.
• On moving day, make sure your dog has access to fresh water at all times.