Relocating With Your Dog

Well we’re right smack in the middle of moving to another state and I’m literally writing this as packers are boxing up our belongings and loading them on a moving truck. I’d say hubby and I are professional movers with dogs, as we averaged eight moves within 11 years while hubby was in the military. We got this!

But moving with dogs can be a challenge, especially if this is your first time. Allow me to provide some tips as I listen to tape whistling and boxes shifting in the background. 🙂

4 Weeks Before Packing Day

Sort and separate dog toys, bowls, treats, chews, bedding and crates to bring along during your move. Check and update your pet first aid bag. If you haven’t done so, download a pet first aid app for your smartphone. Plus, you’ll need a copy of your dog’s vaccination records, especially proof of rabies, so bring your rabies certificate with you–a rabies tag is not enough proof in many states.

Now, plan and pack enough food and treats for seven to 10 days, if possible, so you’re not unpacking boxes in search of dog food. Personally, I pack my dogs heart worm medication, flea control, dog food, treats, chews and any prescriptions in a suitcase to reduce searching through boxes later.

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2-3 Weeks Before Moving

Contact your vet to ensure all dogs are updated on vaccinations required per state regulations. Many states have different requirements, and it can become confusing as rabies regulations can change by county or parish. Do your research upfront and arrive prepared with proper paperwork, which is a must even if traveling to visit family and friends. To verify up-to-date rabies requirements, contact a veterinarian practicing in your state and county (or parish). He can easily guide you in the right direction.

1 Week Before Moving

Choose a quiet and safe room to crate your dogs, and locate a room far away from movers and the moving truck. Trust me, this is not the time to socialize your dogs. Your job is keeping your dogs stress-free so the rest of your move is seamless. I’ve witnessed dogs displaying confusion and sheer terror when crated near a main entrance or in the same room as movers boxing items. Dogs don’t know what’s going on and they can easily become reactive and stressed. Also, never leave dogs loose in your household while movers are coming in and out. Your dog can easily run right out the doorway or backyard gate so keep your dogs confined indoors.

Personally, we’ve chosen a bedroom located in the back of our home to set up our dogs’ crates with bedding and chew toys. Plus, we kept our packed suitcases and other items we chose to hand-carry during our move in the room next to our dogs. This makes sure movers don’t accidentally pack needed items. Also, I play soothing music to drown out loud talking movers and rustling or moving of boxes.