Guest Blog Post by Jessica Brody, OurBestFriends.pet
According to a National Pet Owners Survey, about 60.2 million U.S. households own dogs. It’s no wonder then why choosing a new home with the needs of your pet in mind is important. With so many households home to at least one dog, these four-legged family members deserve careful consideration throughout the moving process.
Dog-Friendly: What It Means
Neighborhoods that welcome dogs are telling by such features as parks and trails. When touring the home and the neighborhood, look around for other dogs in yards or out for a walk with their owners. For rental properties, always be sure to read the fine print of the rental agreement. Details such as how many dogs they allow and what types of insurance they require may influence your decision to rent at a particular property.
Busy Roads and Streets
Traffic patterns make a difference for not only humans but for their dogs as well. Noise from traffic can keep you awake at night and busy streets and roads present real dangers for dogs. As many pet owners already know, it only takes a second for your dog to escape through an open door. Observing traffic not only gives you an idea of how noisy it is, but it also lets you know how risky it is to walk with your dog in the area.
Vegetation and Wildlife
If you’re looking for a new home in the country, take note of vegetation and ask your realtor about wildlife. Even with a fenced-in yard, your dog may gain exposure to poison ivy. While poison ivy doesn’t affect dogs as severely as it does humans, it can transfer from their fur to your skin. Also, your dog may think it’s found a new friend when it has actually found a skunk. These small, wild creatures do more than stink — they often carry rabies. Other creatures to keep away from your dog are raccoons, snakes, and even spiders.
Keep Calm and Move With Your Dog
Once you select your new home and moving day is underway, try to remain calm. Your dog will soon sense something is up as it receives less attention and as boxes begin to fill the rooms. Prior to the move, Vetstreet recommends doubling check that your dog is microchipped and getting them fitted with an updated ID tag. Additionally, speak with your vet about any concerns you have regarding your dog’s anxiety and stress levels during the move.
The Dos and Don’ts of Cleaning
It’s always a smart idea to hire professional cleaning services for the home you are leaving. Not only will it leave your former home looking nice, but it is also essential for getting your deposit back. Move out cleaning costs typically run from $130 to $300, according to Nancy Housekeeping Services, though this depends on the size of the house or apartment. It is money well-spent for leaving a positive impression for potential buyers or your landlord. However, don’t immediately wash your pet’s favorite toys or blankets. The familiar scents of their former home provide great comfort to them as they adjust to the new place.
Speaking of cleaning, you may discover that you’re doing a little more of it in your new home. All of the stress and anxiety associated with the move might prompt your dog to have an accident in the house, though this is perfectly normal. You can prepare for these issues beforehand by mixing together a handy solution using white vinegar and water. There are also several pet-friendly cleaners available on the market if you prefer to go that route.
Change Is Hard
Adapting to new surroundings can be difficult. Sometimes humans, as well as their dogs, experience feelings of nostalgia or homesickness for their former home. Spending time together immediately after the move will do you both good. Experts cite benefits such as decreased loneliness, a strengthened bond, and improved socialization from walking your dog. Not only is it a great way to exercise, but you might just make some new friends!
Your dog is a part of your family, and as such, it needs careful consideration when you choose a home. By working through the moving process together, you’ll soon settle into your new place feeling happy about your decision.