Finding a new place to live when you have a dog can be quite an undertaking. It's definitely doable, but requires some work. And moving is stressful, no matter when or how you do it. Moving with a dog can certainly add to the day's hassles but a little preparation can make the transition a little more smoother. This guest post from Bernie The Boxer filled with tips on finding a home and prepping for moving day!
When Home Hunting
Check Local Ordinances: When mulling the purchase of a potential home, get acquainted with county and city ordinances and regulations that guard the health and safety of pets and humans alike. Typically, under threat of a fine, they will require you to keep your dog on a leash and to clean up after your furry pal in public areas.
Check Local Ordinances: When mulling the purchase of a potential home, get acquainted with county and city ordinances and regulations that guard the health and safety of pets and humans alike. Typically, under threat of a fine, they will require you to keep your dog on a leash and to clean up after your furry pal in public areas.
Fortunately, it’s becoming standard for communities to create and
maintain pet-friendly
parks. Check with your local parks and recreation department for
information on where pet playgrounds and parks are located in the neighborhood
of a potential home.
Find Out HOA or Apartment Building Rules: A house with a backyard is the ideal layout for a dog, but when an
apartment or townhouse is what fits the budget, you make do. When the latter is
the option, check the condo board or townhouse rules regarding pets. FYI: Homeowners
associations (HOAs) usually dictate the rules and bylaws for what is
tolerated and required of the animal.
Consider the Home Layout: Check the layout of the properties you evaluate and think about creature
comforts inside and outside the house or apartment. Will your dog have enough
yard or living room space? Would tiled floors or carpeting be better for your
animal? Consider the difficulties that may arise in the future. Today, your
spry puppy dog may have no problem climbing stairs but as the years go by, she
might not be able to. Take her age and health status into account.
Inspect the outside of the property as well. Is there proper fencing of the
yard? Is there space for a dog house? Will the neighbor’s
dogs be a problem? These are all questions you should find answers for
before moving forward with purchasing the house.
How to Prepare for Moving Day
Dogs are sensitive to changes in their routine or
environment, so as you prepare to move, make sure you’ve given a lot of thought
to how the dog will be treated before and during your move to your new home. Follow these guidelines for stress-free results:
Before the Move: If you have a puppy, make sure the new home is puppy-proofed before
it arrives. The last thing you want is chew marks on your new furniture, or it
trampling on your new garden’s flowers. With a clean bill of health, per the
veterinarian, work on sticking to the dog’s routine as much as possible before
moving. Consider finding a pet sitter (friend or hired) to take in your dog
while you move for a moving day with few dog-related hassles.
During the Move: On moving day, make sure you have taken your dog out for an extra-long walk
so that she is more tired than usual. This will help reduce her anxiety level
when she is transported to the new home. Once you reach the place, keep your
dog in a reserved room for her as you move forward with the unpacking. Keep
familiar treats and toys near her at all times so that she is reminded of your
old home’s scents.
Let a day or two go by until you feel she is ready to explore your new
digs. If she is adjusting well to the new space, then congratulations! You’ve
found a home that she can live in with apparent canine contentment. What a
treat for her and your family.
Click here to learn more
about Bernie The Boxer!
Comments