At Air 1 Moving & Storage, we know your pet’s part of the family and that moving is a big life change for them too. Over our 20 year history we’ve moved all kinds of pets from fish to felines. And as we’re such a smoothly run moving company, all the pets arrived safely and settled into their new home fast.
But the best laid plans on moving day often go awry, if you make a poor choice with the moving company. Air 1 Moving & Storage professionals promise to get you into your new home without a hitch. That means no delays, no breakages, and absolutely no lost items. If you’re stressed, chances are your pet is too, and if you have to troubleshoot you can’t give them the attention they deserve.
Not all humans like routine, in fact, some of us hate it. If you’re excited about your move, understand that your routine-loving dog might feel stressed about it. Here’s a selection of things you can do before, during and after moving house with your dog.
HOW TO PREPARE YOUR DOG BEFORE MOVING DAY
ANXIETY MEDICINE
We mean for the dog. If your dog regularly gets anxious, your vet can advise you on what medicines you can administer on moving day. You can also use non-prescription calming supplements and chews for dogs.
PLAN YOUR CANINE CARRY-ON
Air 1 Moving & Storage is a thoughtful kind of moving company. So our movers will double check that you haven’t accidentally packed anything you might need on moving day. For your fluffy friends you’ll want the fun stuff like treats and their leash for playing in a new space. But remember the boring stuff too like their medicine, as well as vet and microchip details in case of emergency.
LET YOUR BESTIE GET USED TO BOXES
Dogs sometimes freak out when they see us packing, because that’s how the house looked before you went on vacation. Depending on your dog’s personality, try leaving a few boxes out in advance to normalize your dog to them. This trick also works for their pet carrier. If you can get them to use their pet carrier for naps now, all the better.
START A COVERT TRAINING OPERATION FOR THE NEW PLACE
If you’re moving locally, why not take your dog for a walk in your new area before you move? That way, when you do move, your dog will be wise to what everything smells like.
Even if the new place is long distance or international, you can still prepare your dog ahead of time. How? Say in your new home your dog can’t get out to the yard alone. Now’s the time to start training for a toilet schedule.
WHAT TO DO WITH YOUR DOG ON MOVING DAY
USUAL ROUTINE AND EXERCISE
Like people, exercise works as a great stress buster for dogs. Go on your usual morning walk and smell some familiar smells.
GIMME TREATS! I LOVE TREATS!
Yes yes. But not too many. Sorry doggy, it’s because we don’t want you throwing up on the journey. And bear in mind that treats don’t just have to be food based, they can be games too. A game can be the perfect way to distract your dog from any anxiety they might feel.
HIRE A PET SITTER
Don’t think you’ll have enough time for all the cuddles your anxious dog will need? Then maybe you can leave him or her with a trusted pet sitter, or with a friend or relative who your dog knows.
SECURE YOUR DOG IN THE CAR
Now it’s time for the familiar-smelling pet carrier that you prepared earlier. Make sure it’s secure in case of a car accident and that there’s enough ventilation. Your dog would probably love a stinky old blanket in there or something else that smells familiar. And think about waterproofing just in case someone does have a little accident.
PLAN REGULAR CAR BREAKS
Especially if your dog’s not used to traveling, plan to stop regularly for some light exercise. And toilet breaks, in case no-one had any little accidents.
HOW TO GET YOUR DOG USED TO YOUR NEW HOME
CHECK AROUND FOR DOGGIE HAZARDS
Is there anything at dog-height that an inquisitive dog might chew on? Can your dog escape out of the yard? While you’re checking for hazards, be sure you don’t bring any in. During a move it’s really easy to leave stuff lying around, so make sure that doesn’t include toxic cleaning products.
HEY, EVERYTHING SMELLS SO NEW!
Bring your lovely familiar smell with you. Resist the urge to clean with anything that will mask or eliminate those recognizable smells for your pet.
ESTABLISH YOUR DOG’S SPACE
First, take a quiet walk inside your new home with your dog on a leash. Let him or her explore at their own pace, and this is a good time for treats too. If your dog is unwilling to go anywhere, just be patient and move on.
LET THEM SCOUT OUT THE NEW BLOCK WITH YOU
It’s not so scary when you can check out the new sights and scents in the surrounding area. And far better for your dog to spot his or her potential new arch-enemy with you holding the leash.
MORE QUALITY TIME WITH YOUR DOG
Get someone else to deal with all those boxes. Air 1 Moving & Storage offers a convenient unpacking service so as soon as you’re inside your new home you can give your pawed pal the attention they deserve.
WHY YOU NEED THE NUMBER 1 MOVING COMPANY IN LA FOR MOVING WITH YOUR DOG
Our moving crew loves pets, and we get the job done with them around efficiently and with no fuss. The sooner our movers are in and out, the sooner your dog will know it’s your new family home.
Start your summer move by choosing a moving company that’ll ensure your big day is smooth and stress-free. For information on how Air 1 Moving and Storage can help you with your summer move, call us at (866) 552-2916. Our lines are open 24/7 so you can speak with one of our professional movers as soon as possible. You can also fill in our contact form, or email us at [email protected].
