Moving with your pet

Moving is not only stressful for humans, it can also be tough on your pets. Both dogs and cats are sensitive to changes in their environment and can show stress-related behaviors at moving time. Understanding what your pet is experiencing can help you help your pet to cope.

Dogs on the Go

If you have spent time socializing your dog, taking him lots of places and even going camping or on vacation with him, moving won't be as tough on him. Dogs that are used to frequent changes in their environment get less freaked out if the family moves from one house to another. Dogs like this will miss their familiar house and yard, but as long as their people are close by, they adapt quickly.

Dogs that don't get out much and have never had a night away from home won't take to a new house very easily. You may see anxious behaviors, such as whining, pacing and even bathroom mistakes. Be patient with your dog and give him lots of positive attention in his new home. Provide him with familiar toys to play with and put out the same bed he slept in at home. In time, he'll get used to his new digs.

One of the hardest parts about moving for any dog is the stress that relocating creates for the humans in the family. Dogs are sensitive creatures and quickly realize when their people are upset or nervous. If you are anxious about your move, your dog may become anxious too.

Dogs can also become nervous when they see their owners packing up belongings before a move. As familiar objects disappear and stacks of boxes take their place, dogs can show signs of anxiety. Whining, pacing, chewing things they shouldn't and bathroom accidents are all signs of nervousness in dogs.

If your dog is having trouble coping with a move and seems extremely anxious, talk to your veterinarian. Your vet may recommend drug treatment to calm your dog's nerves.

Cats on the Move

Cats are much more susceptible to changes in their environment, in large part because cats rarely leave familiar surroundings. This is especially true of indoor cats, whose entire world is the inside of the house.

Cats become stressed when packing starts and some will hide under furniture as the house begins to take on an unfamiliar appearance. Some cats will even stop using the litter box.

When taken to a new home, most cats will hide for a day or so and may not eat. When they eventually do come out, they may be skittish and run for cover when people come to visit, or while you are unpacking.

You can do a lot to help your cat cope with the stresses of moving. Be patient with him and give him time to adjust to the newness of his surroundings. If he's hiding, don't try to force him out. Instead, put his food, water and litter box in the same room where he's holed up. Leave it there until you notice him start to venture forth. When he comes out of hiding, give him lots of attention and treats to let him know he's in a good place. Eventually, he will begin to feel more comfortable.

If your cat goes outdoors, keep him inside for at least two weeks before you let him venture outside. If you let him out too soon, he may hide outdoors and be afraid to come out. He may also get lost and not be able to find his way home.

Have patience with your pet during moving time, and give him plenty of time to adjust to new surroundings. Stay up beat and positive, and give your pet lots of attention in your new home. It won't be long before he comes to love it.