Buying a New Home: Tips for Dog Lovers
Guest Article by Tyler Evans of Dogzasters.com
Photo via Pixabay
Buying a new home is an exciting time, but it’s also one filled with life-changing decisions. That’s why it’s so important to make sure you know what you want before you move forward. You’ll need to think about how much you can spend on a mortgage (San Diego homes have been selling for $657,000 on average) and what kind of home fits your family, and when you’re a dog owner, you’ll have several additional things to take into consideration. Finding the right home for both of your needs, making sure the neighborhood has pet-friendly spots, and making plans for the home search and moving day where your pet’s safety and comfort are concerned are crucial, so think carefully about a moving plan from the very beginning.
Keep in mind as well that your pet may have anxiety about the move, even if he’s never exhibited signs of anxiety before. Animals can become worried about a lot of new activity, especially when their surroundings change drastically or when their owner’s behavior or routine is altered. Give your dog lots of love and attention during the process, and keep his routine the same for as long as possible.
Here are some ideas on how to get started.
Have a plan for cleaning
Moving can be pretty difficult for dogs. Even if they’ve never shown signs of anxiety or fear before, having so many big changes can lead to alterations in their behavior. Try to be patient if your pup has accidents during this time, and show him lots of love and attention to reassure him that everything is okay. In order to neutralize odors and remove stains he leaves out of nervousness, all you need to do is pick up some vinegar. Combined with hot water, vinegar is an excellent natural cleaner that’s also budget- and eco-friendly.
Plan for moving day
Moving day can be a chaotic time if you’re not prepared, and this can lead to safety issues for your pet. Create a solid plan for the move that will include how to keep your dog happy and anxiety-free; you might ask a friend or loved one to look after him during the process. Another option is to find a local pet sitter to watch your pup. If your dog has to be around for the move, you can place him in a crate (some large crates retail for under $50) in a quiet room and keep him occupied with his favorite toys and treats. Once the bulk of the move is finished, bring him to the new place and let him explore a little.
Keep him comfortable
Once you’re in the new house, remember to place your pet’s bedding, toys, and food bowls in spots that are similar to where they are in your current home. For instance, if he eats in the kitchen near the fridge, let him do the same in the new house if possible. This will help to cut down on confusion and will help your pet get used to the new surroundings a little more easily, especially if you keep his belongings rather than buy new ones; the familiar smells will bring comfort. Remember that the first days or weeks in the new home can be difficult on your pup, so think about taking some time off work if it’s in the budget so you can be there with him during the day. Give him plenty of walks and exercise to lessen the risk of behavioral issues when you do leave.
Buying a new home always comes with a lot to think about, and when you have a pet, there are so many considerations to make during the process. Cut down on the stress by creating a clear plan before you make any decisions, and remember to keep him as comfortable and calm as possible. In doing so, you’ll be ensuring that he suffers little to no anxiety during what can be a very stressful process.
For more tips on how to move with a dog, check out https://fluentwoof.com/moving-with-a-dog/“
