How to Move Home and Relocate with Your Dog or Puppy: A Complete Guide for Mans Best Friend

Relocating to a new home can be exciting, but for dog owners, it comes with added challenges. Dogs, like people, can feel stressed when their environment changes. Whether you’re moving with a playful puppy or an older dog, planning ahead is key to ensuring your canine companion feels safe and comfortable throughout the move.

At MNM Removals, we understand that pets are part of the family. In this guide, we’ll address the common difficulties of moving with dogs, provide practical solutions, and explain how we can make your move smoother.

Challenges of Moving with Dogs and Puppies

Relocating with dogs presents unique challenges, including:

1. Stress from Disruption: Dogs rely on routine and may become anxious during the packing, travelling, and settling-in stages.
2. Risk of Escape: Open doors and unfamiliar environments on moving day can lead to your dog running off.
3. Adjusting to a New Home: New sights, sounds, and smells can make dogs uneasy as they adapt to their new surroundings.

How to Prepare for Moving Day with Your Dog

1. Create a Dog Moving-Day Kit

Pack a bag with all the essentials your dog will need for the day and the first few nights:

• Food, water, and bowls.
• A leash, collar, and ID tags with updated contact details.
• Favourite toys, blankets, and a dog bed to provide comfort.
• Waste bags, treats, and grooming supplies.
• Any medications your dog requires.

2. Introduce the Crate or Carrier Early

If you’re using a crate or carrier for transportation, introduce it well before the move. Add blankets or toys to make it a comfortable and familiar space.

3. Stick to a Routine

Keep your dog’s feeding, walking, and play schedules consistent in the days leading up to the move. This helps minimise anxiety.

4. Secure Your Dog on Moving Day

On moving day, confine your dog to a quiet room or use a crate to keep them safe and out of the way while movers work. Place a sign on the door to prevent accidental escapes.

Travelling with Your Dog

When transporting your dog to the new home:

• Use a Secure Crate or Harness: Ensure your dog is safely secured in the car to prevent injuries and distractions.
• Make Stops Comfortable: If travelling long distances, take regular breaks for bathroom stops and exercise.
• Keep Them Calm: Talk to your vet about calming products, such as sprays or collars, if your dog struggles with car rides.

Helping Your Dog Settle in a New Home

Once you arrive, focus on making your dog feel at ease:

1. Set Up a Safe Space
   Choose a quiet room where your dog can rest while you unpack. Include their bed, toys, food, and water.
2. Explore Gradually
   Allow your dog to explore the new home at their own pace. Start with one room before introducing them to other areas.
3. Keep Doors and Fences Secure
   Check for gaps in fences or unsecured doors to prevent your dog from escaping.
4. Maintain Familiarity
   Bring items with familiar scents, like blankets or toys, to provide comfort.
5. Stick to a Routine
   Keep feeding and walking schedules consistent to help your dog adjust.

Tips for Moving with Puppies

Relocating with puppies requires extra care:

• Puppy-Proof Your Home: Remove hazards like loose wires and small objects that could be chewed or swallowed.
• Use a Crate for Security: A crate can keep your puppy safe during travel and help them feel secure in the new home.
• Training: Continue with training routines to reinforce good behaviour and build confidence in their new surroundings.

How MNM Removals Can Help

At MNM Removals, we understand the complexities of moving with pets. Our professional removal services are designed to make the process as stress-free as possible for you and your furry friend.

• Flexible Moving Schedules: We’ll work around your needs, so you can prioritise your dog’s well-being on moving day.
• Packing Services: Our team can handle the packing, giving you more time to focus on your pet.
• Expert Advice: We’re happy to offer tips on moving with dogs and ensuring they remain safe during the process.
• Secure Transport: With our help, you can rest assured your belongings will be transported safely, leaving you to care for your pet.

Bonus Tips for a Smooth Transition

1. Update Your Dog’s ID
   Ensure your dog’s ID tags and microchip details are updated with your new address and phone number.
2. Scout the Neighbourhood
   Before moving, research nearby parks, vets, and pet-friendly areas.
3. Be Patient
   It may take time for your dog to adjust to their new environment. Provide plenty of reassurance and monitor their behaviour.
4. Gradual Introductions
   If you have neighbours with dogs, introduce them gradually to avoid overwhelming your pet.

Essential Supplies for Moving with Dogs

Before moving, consider these supplies:

• Sturdy crates or travel harnesses.
• Chew toys to keep dogs occupied during travel.
• Poo bags for the journey.
• Calming sprays or collars.
• Double-walled boxes for securely packing your dog’s belongings.

Final Thoughts

Relocating with your dog doesn’t have to be stressful. With proper planning and the support of MNM Removals, you can ensure your canine companion feels safe, secure, and loved throughout the move.

Contact MNM Removals today for a free quote and expert moving advice tailored to pet owners.

Phone: 0800 0025 543 
Email: contact@mnmremovals.co.uk 
Website: www.mnmremovals.co.uk 

MNM Removals – Caring for Families, Belongings, and Your Four-Legged Friends.