Moving to another state or country is often a stressful experience, yet it can be especially traumatic for pets that are exposed to too many new experiences in a short period of time. With a long-distance move, it may not be possible to use the typical strategies such as taking your dog to the new home for brief visits. Fortunately, there are still several ways that you can ease the stress for your dog so that they can have a smooth transition to your new residence.
Schedule a Pre-and-Post-Trip Checkup
Prior to the move, it is important to make sure that your dog is in good health and up-to-date on all required vaccinations. For example, the CDC reports that some countries require blood tests to be conducted six months in advance to ensure that dogs are protected against rabies. Once you arrive in your new community, you will also want to schedule a visit with your pet's new veterinarian at a clinic like Southwest Animal Hospital so that they can get acquainted. During this visit, your vet can also explain to you any health risks that exist in your area such as parasites. This way, you can begin preventative measures right away to keep your dog in good health.
Introduce Them to Their Crate
Whether you are traveling by plane or car, it is best to keep your dog secured in a crate. If your dog is unfamiliar with the crate, then you will need to spend a few weeks practicing crate training. Begin by placing a treat in their crate, and leave the gate open when they are inside. Over time, you can slowly transition your pet to having the door closed. Finally, you should practice driving with your pet in the crate so that they can become familiar with the sensation of being on the road.
Check for Pet-Friendly Lodging and Dining
Pets should never be left in the car for any period of time in extreme temperatures, and your dog will likely feel increased stress if they are left alone in an unfamiliar area. For this reason, you will want to find restaurants and hotels that allow your dog to stay with you. Make sure to keep your dog on their leash in public, and you may need to try a practice run in a hotel before your move if your dog has never stayed in one before.
Dogs are a valuable member of your family, yet it can be easy to overlook how the stress of moving can affect their well-being. As you prepare for your move, make sure to give your dog plenty of love and affection to help them feel secure. By preparing ahead of time and introducing your dog to new experiences slowly, you can ensure that your upcoming moving day is an enjoyable opportunity to bond with your pet.
Share8 March 2016
Animal emergencies happen quite often, and I have seen a lot of different injuries at the veterinary office I work at. Vehicle incidents, falls, and fights with other animals can all cause these injuries. Some of the most surprising emergencies I see though, are when pets eat substances that make them ill. Dogs and cats can both get sick by ingesting flowers, essential oils, and certain types of food items that humans eat. I even see some animals that become ill when they eat shoes, towels, and their own toys. I know that the vast majority of pet owners love their animals dearly. Most medical emergencies are purely accidental. You can easily save your precious feline or canine from harm as long as you know how the most common injuries occur. The articles posted here can help you with this, so start reading to make sure your pet remains healthy.