Even under the best circumstances, moving is stressful. It’s a whirlwind of action and a rollercoaster of emotions—from the moment the to-do list is made, to the final moment when the last box is unpacked. There’s so much going on in such a short amount of time, that it’s natural to get caught up in the rush of it all.

It’s only normal, then, that we tend to overlook the quietest, furriest members of the family as we sail through the chaos of moving. Dogs have no idea what’s going on during a move, and can only watch as their world, as they know it, is stripped down and ripped apart.

As dramatic that sounds, if you’re a dog lover, you’ll understand. Dogs are nature’s greatest therapy animals, usually working overtime to make sure their favorite humans are happy, calm, and relaxed. If you’re moving with a dog, it’s important to pay your four-legged friend back in kind by helping him or her cope with the experience.

Here are some helpful tips to make your upcoming move as easy on your fur babies as humanly possible.

Keep Them Away From the Action

On moving day, your home will likely turn into a flurry of activity, especially if you’ve commissioned a variety of moving services. Strangers come in and out of the house while cleaners briskly wipe away familiar smells with strong disinfectant. Your pet is not likely to understand the commotion, much less feel comfortable with it.

If possible, have your dog spend some time with a family member or close friend. You could also board them at a reputable daycare center before the household movers arrive. This will help your dog adjust to the newness of the situation, without having to go through the possible trauma of moving day.

Out With the New, In With the Old

It’s a common impulse to want to buy your dog a brand-new bed and toys when moving to a brand-new house. But as tempting as it may be to throw out that old, tattered, squeaky toy, or that dingy dog bed, don’t do it! To your pet, these things are familiar and reassuring, and they can be a fantastic source of comfort at a time when everything else smells, looks, and is different.

Get to Know the Neighborhood Together

As soon as your dog arrives, take him or her out for a walk in the new neighborhood. It’s important for animals to get a big picture idea of where they are and what that means, whether you’re far from home or right down the street from the old house. They’ll love the opportunity to take in the new smells, sounds, and sights of their surroundings, and it will help them to adjust to the situation faster.

Stick to Routine

If you have your dog on a schedule, try to stick to it as much as you can before and after the move. Serve their meals at the same time everyday, and take them for walks at the same time, too. If they’re not really on a schedule, try to follow your regular routine as much as you can after the move. This will help them establish the feeling that everything is normal, even if their surroundings are not.

Hire a Local Moving Company That Takes the Stress Out of Your Relocation

One of the most important things you can do to keep your pet happy and calm during a move is to stay happy and calm yourself. A reputable local or long distance moving company will make the entire process as quick, smooth, and seamless as possible.

If you’re planning a move, call Black Tie Moving today to speak with one of our friendly representatives about our premium moving services, or request a free relocation quote by submitting our online contact form. Let us take care of everything for you, so that you and your pet can relax and enjoy the experience of moving into a new home.