RM Home Specialists knows that moving can be a big adventure, especially with a furry friend (or a few) by your side! 

Pups are family! Here’s a quick guide to make the move easier for both you and your fur babies.

Before the move, consider: 

1.  Vet Visit

Schedule a check-up to update vaccinations and get your dog’s medical records. This is helpful if you are moving to a new area and possibly transitioning vets. One less thing to worry about once you're moved!

2. Update ID

Make sure your dog’s ID tag and microchip info have your new address and phone number. This usually can be done by your vet or they will walk you through how to do it online. Keeping contact information and addresses up to date on a microchip can save a whole lot of time and heartache in the case your pup gets out in your new neighborhood.

3. New Home Preview

If possible, visit your new home and neighborhood with your dog to familiarize them with the area. This is also fun because pups love to smell, and they will get familiar with the new smells before actually moving in. This can also help with cats, as they can take longer to acclimate to new spaces.

4. Gradual Packing

Pack gradually to keep your dog calm. Try to stick to their regular routine. Most animals can sense when something is happening, especially change. Most animals instincts say, "they're leaving without me!" So make sure to keep your dog's favorite toy, or bed and always talk them through what's going on (even if you don't think they understand, it actually helps!).

On the moving day: 

1. Safe Space

On moving day, keep your dog in a quiet room or with a friend to avoid stress. If you can help it, moving a majority of your things into the new home can help pets feel more comfortable and have familiar smells right as they enter. With cats, you know your feline best- keep them in one room as you move and let them explore as you see fit.

*Consider outside care: If you have friends, family or doggy day-care that you trust and your dogs have experience with, consider giving them a little "vacation" as you pack things up and move.

2. Travel Kit

Pack essentials like food, water, leash, toys, and a blanket for the journey. Buying a home, selling a home and moving all disrupt the normal routine for your pups; Cats are more sensitive to routine disruption so be mindful. Pay attention to eating habits and stress, these are two of the most common changes during eventful times.

3. Comfortable Travel

Ensure your dog is secure and comfortable, whether by car or plane. Use a crate or dog seatbelt for car travel. If you crate your pups, we know they'll find comfort while traveling. For other more sensitive pups or cats who don't love the car, make sure to take a little extra time with their travel comfort, especially if they will be traveling separately.

And once you arrive: 

1. Stick to the Routine

Keep feeding, walking, and playtime on a regular schedule to help your dog adjust. Getting re-adjusted back to your "normal" schedule can feel good for your pups. Be patient, but most likely, they're just happy to be with you and will get back to the routine in no time.

2. Explore Together

Take walks around your new neighborhood to help your dog get used to the new surroundings. A study shows that 30 minutes of sniffing equals 1 hour of exercise for dogs! Even if your dog spends most of it's time indoors, the new smells and fresh air, naturally calm the nervous system and release "feel-good" endorphins. If your cat can tolerate a harness and leash, get them out there too!

3. Monitor Behavior

Watch for signs of stress, like excessive barking or changes in appetite, and offer extra comfort. Even if you think your pets have settled in well, there can always be delayed affects that come up. Just keep an eye out and be cautious in the first month of settling in.

Finally, long-term tips:

1. Meet the Neighbors

Introduce your dog to new neighbors and their pets slowly and positively. Socializing your dogs is essential to creating a safe, new environment. You know your pets best, stay calm and be responsible and respectful when around new dogs or at public parks.

2. New Vet

Find a local vet and schedule a visit to establish care. Get recommendations if you can! Vet care is important to ensure a long, healthy life for our pups.

3. Be Patient

Adjusting takes time. Provide lots of love and positive reinforcement. Some animals are more sensitive than others. If you have more than one animal, they may move at different paces and have different reactions. It's all about being flexible and making sure they overcome challenges with you.

Moving with your dog can be smooth and enjoyable with a bit of preparation and patience. Here’s to new adventures in your new home!

We have a new listing in University Place where the owners spent much thought for their larger dogs with a turfed dog run, fenced and doggie door into the garage. They also have a beautiful green lawn and play space for their mom and dad. Enjoy this link and let us know if we can help the whole furry family adjust during the move! 

Regina and Madison
RM Home Specialists
Licensed Managing Brokers | Realtors® 
Windermere North Narrows