How to Move With an Anxious Pet
Moving is a stressful time for everyone. There are boxes everywhere, you have to relocate all of your things, and start completely from scratch. When you add moving with a pet into the mix, they tend to suffer from extreme separation anxiety which can complicate you and your furry friends moving experience. To help you calm the nerves of your anxious pet, the team at MyMove has created a guide on how to move with an anxious pet during each stage of the moving process.
Before the Move
Before you begin your moving process, there are several steps you can take to prevent stress for you and your pet. Tactics like touring the neighborhood beforehand and setting up your pets’ space in the house can make them familiar to your new space.
Scope out the neighborhood. If possible, going on a walk around your new area before move-in day can help your pup feel more comfortable (and even excited) about their new home. Walks can even become part of your daily routine after settling in, so getting started on this tradition early can help the transition go smooth.
Check for the nearest vet. Making sure there is a vet nearby to your new house or apartment is helpful in case of an emergency. Maltipoos might pull out their fur when they’re anxious, so having a vet to call just in case any out-of-the-ordinary behavior occurs is always a good idea.
Set up everything before move-in day. Having a personalized, full set up prepared for them can make the house more exciting for them right off the bat. This makes move-in day just a little less stressful, allowing you to focus on other things on your to-do list by having your Maltipoo’s space ready to go.
During the Move
Move-in day can get quite hectic. The list below provides options for you to try out to make the process easier on you and your furry friend, from getting a pet sitter to taking a simple walk.
Get a pet sitter. Hiring a pet sitter is a great way to ensure your pet gets the attention they need. If you know that your move is going to require a lot of time and effort on your end, the pet sitter can take your place for the day (or however long you need).
Take them with you while traveling. Whether by plane or car, make sure you are with your pet for the duration of your traveling journey. Maltipoo’s are very attached animals and would feel a lot more comfortable being by your side.
Make sure to get exercise to relieve stress. Although your Maltipoo doesn’t typically require a lot of exercise, going on a family walk can ease their nerves. Try and include two 20-minute walks the day of moving in for them to help release their anxiety.
After the Move
Finally moved in? After the move, your Maltipoo will soon start to feel at home. By keeping a consistent schedule and ensuring they are taken care of, you can make sure your post-move experience is a positive one. You will want to make sure the routine is established before you start regularly leaving your dog alone for longer periods of time
Keep a consistent schedule. The more consistent and similar the schedule, the better, especially in the beginning. Your dog isn’t used to their space yet, and with time and a routine, they will start to feel more at home.
Check for hazards. After the move, make sure to constantly look for small hazards that you might’ve missed at first. Plastic wrap, leftover tools from setting up, and pieces of wood are all things that could potentially harm your pet.
Give them attention. This one is especially important for Maltipoo’s! They need as much attention as possible to feel at ease. Although you have moved in already, the first couple of weeks should be spent making sure your pet feels safe and important.
The newness of your new home might be overwhelming and scary at first, for you and your pet. However, as time goes on, the furniture will start to be in place, and your rhythm will start developing. In the beginning, staying patient and consistent while your pet adjusts is key to minimizing you and your pets’ stress level. By following the steps above, you and your furry roommate will soon be all moved in and ready to start your new chapter.
Author: Sarah Hollenbeck