According to the National Council on Pet Population Study and Policy, moving is one of the top 10 reasons dogs and cats are given up by their owners. Moving with can bring up stress for both you and your dog. Preparation is key to making a smooth transition from old house to new. Here are some of my tips for a successful move!

Paws For A Minuteâ„¢… Tips on preparing for a move with your pet.

1. Check the pet policy.

Many rentals require a pet deposit, or simply do not accept pets at all. Be aware of what is required and communicate clearly with your landlord and new neighbors. Many apartments and condos also have weight and number restrictions on pets. Do your research beforehand!

2. Prepare your dog/cat  for the move in advance. Begin using the “wait” command to indicate leaving on short errands before you move.

Using the words “sit” and “wait” triggers a command of how you want your dog to behave. The first few days and nights in your new home may trigger an insecurity. New noises, sounds, smells come with the new territory. You will have to leave to do an errand or go to work leaving your dog in the new house alone. Gating your dog for a few weeks before you move will set a pattern of denning and get your dog used to a routine.

Get a baby gate and /or a crate and use the den concept to create a sense of security several weeks before you move. Moving can be a hectic time. Dogs can sense this nervous energy. Dogs are innately den animals and they love having their own place, den or room, so to speak. Therefore creating an area within your house by gating off a room for an hour several times a day (while you’re home) will help prepare your dog for being in your new house the first few days. Gating will also help with open doors and gates during the hectic move.

3. Expand their new environment slowly.

When you arrive at your new residence, do not give your dog or cat have free reign of the house. Giving them their own room yet not shutting a door on them is key. Shutting a door on a dog can create anxiety stress. You can’t explain things like “I’m going to a movie and dinner and I will be right back,” but you can show them through giving them a safe place to hang out. Music helps a lot too. Gating or crating allows a dog to acclimate slowly to the overwhelming new sights, sounds and smells.

4. Get new name tags in advance.

Put this on the top of your list. In addition to address changes for mail carriers and bills don’t forget pet tags!