Easing the stress of moving with your dog.

Moving, particularly moving over a long distance, can be a confusing experience for a dog. There are several ways you can minimize the stress and ease the transition for your canine companion:

1. Make sure you pack a special box of your dog’s things. Let them help you pack it and put some of your own personal items in the box as well. Be sure that it is the last box loaded into the truck and the first box unloaded. You should unpack it as soon as you get to your new house and make a big deal out of it. "See -- here's your bowl and water bowl.”

2. Place the water and food bowl first. A dog will orient himself relative to his food and water bowl. If you have an older pet in the new house, if they ever seem confused you should gently guide them back to their food and water bowls. Having their food and water bowls on the floor say permanency to a newly relocated dog.

3. Place your dogs crate or bed next, his “home” shouldn’t be left in a box in your new home!

4. If you have the chance, hide bits of dog food throughout the house and the backyard before your dog arrives. Your dog will naturally be curious about the new surroundings. Making investigation and exploration of the new home a rewarding experience will help insure that the dog’s first experience after moving to a new house is a positive one.