HOW TO MOVE WITH DOGS

As a dog owner we all know that things can get a little bit crazy when it comes to going somewhere in the car. Whether our dogs are super anxious, really scared, or simply just complicated, there are times where we as pet owners just don't know what to do with them!

Now add on the stress of moving! Believe it or not our dogs can feel that stress and sense that there are changes being made. Which is partly why dogs will give you a more difficult time in the car on these kinds of trips than just a normal car ride to the vet or park. So let's talk about some things that could help make that move with your dog just a little bit easier, and not just for you, but them!

1. BRING THEIR FAVORITE TOY

Now I am not usually one to encourage my dog to have toys in the car when we go somewhere. To be honest that usually ends up with a ball bouncing down the road behind me while I sit there staring at my dog wondering if she is going to jump out of the car window or not. However on longer car rides having one of their most played with toys with them helps them with a sense of security. It gives them something to stay preoccupied with for part of the ride and it's also something that they know.

2. BRING THEIR FAVORITE PILLOW OR BLANKET

Similar to their favorite toy, a pillow, blanket or even a bed ( if it’s small enough ) is another item that will help comfort them on a long ride. The sense of them having something that they know and are used to being around with them, helps to calm them down and not be so anxious walking back and forth in the back seat of your car. 

3. SNACKS

Just like us, dogs love snacks! So bring their favorite snacks and reward them when they are sitting or laying down and not being anxious. This is going to help them associate that being and staying calm is a good behavior and should help them do it more often.

4. CARVE OUT TIME FOR PLENTY OF POTTY BREAKS

If you’re like me, you want to try and get to a destination as fast as possible. However when traveling with a dog, you need to keep in mind they can’t always hold it as long as we can. Plus getting them out and walking around is going to help make those times in the car a lot more bearable because their mind is being stimulated with breaks. Think about it in regards to us, we take breaks and walk away from projects to help rejuvenate our brains and give us another burst of energy to tackle the project and dogs are the same way!

5. HAVE PLENTY OF WATER ON HAND

Like humans dogs have plenty of stress habits. Making sure you have plenty of water for your pet on the car ride is important. Giving them water frequently is going to help settle their stomachs from the anxiety and stress that they could be experiencing while on the road. You can find plenty of collapsible cups or bowls at any pet store and keep it right in the front or back seat with you for east access. 

6. DON'T BLAST YOUR MUSIC

For the most part we all understand that a dogs’ hearing  capability is a lot different than ours. So blasting music in a small space is going to create even more stress for your dog causing them to act up more on your already long enough drive. Now I love listening to music and just being one with the road on a drive but make sure to be considerate enough of the pet you have along with you in the back seat. 

I hope some of these tips help you and your furry friend on your next journey in life together, and if you have any ideas or suggestions on what helps your dog on long car rides please feel free to share them with us!

Home Bound Moving Co.

"Wherever you go in life, We'll take you there"