written by Jessica Brody

Moving your pet to a new place is not the easiest thing to do, especially if you’re unsure what your new town has to offer your pet – and if it’ll keep them happy. Fortunately, most pets are generally easy to please; give them plenty of space to stretch their legs and explore in, and you’re already halfway there.

Purchasing the Ideal Home

You’ll have to consider a pet-friendly property first and foremost when choosing a property.

• Check housing listings to see which property suits you and your pet best.
• If you can’t see anything that piques your interest, a realtor could help.
• Try to secure a home in a pet-friendly community to make it easier to get to know others and their pets. 

Don’t Stray too Far from Routine

One thing’s for sure; dogs appreciate routine. In fact, they find comfort and security in routine activities that many of us as humans can take for granted.

• Stick to a set time when it comes to walking them, feeding them, taking them out to potty, etc.
• If your dog finds it challenging to settle down into a routine in his environment, you may need to enlist the help of a professional, certified dog trainer.
• Try to offer them plenty of outdoor play time to exert their energy and minimize their anxiety associated with being in a different environment. 

Make Them Feel Comfortable as Soon as Possible

The beautiful thing about pets is that they don’t ask for a lot to keep them healthy, happy, and content. All they really need are the basics.

• Make sure he has his vet-recommended favorites, like a bed, dog kennel, blanket, and favorite toy; this is certain to make the transition to a new home much more bearable.
• Invest in toys that are mentally stimulating for your dog, as this should help to prevent him from being destructive out of boredom.
• Pet socialization is important too. So be on the lookout for dog-friendly parks in the area, such as Good Dog Trail and Alpenglow Park.

Spend quality time with them

Nothing can make your pet feel quite as much at ease as making sure you spend quality time with them.

• Work from home or take some time off to spend extra time with your pet. This should help you with your stress levels, too!
• If this is not possible, find a doggy daycare center that will help to nurture your pet when you aren’t able to.
• Do what your pet likes or would appreciate, such as taking them to a doggy day spa or exercising together.

Keeping your pet happy when moving should be easier when you are more in tune with your pet. So, work on strengthening that bond before you leave, and your pet should be more confident with the transition.