Just like humans, your pet can be a creature of habit. It gets used to its surroundings, your schedule, how often it's alone and knows the times when you're around. It knows when you'll be able to let it outside to use the "restroom" and when it's dinner time. It also knows when it's time to sleep. Noting all of this, a move to a new home or taking your pet on vacation with you can really throw its routine for a loop.
Dogs tend to be very stoic creatures, however it's not unusual for them to develop anxiety or certain phobias. And one source of anxiety is introducing it to new surroundings, like a new home. Whether it's a vacation rental or a permanent new residence, it's not unusual for your animal to exhibit some unusual behavior as it adjusts to new surroundings. Some signs and symptoms of pet stress include a tucked tail, lethargy, hiding or a lack of social interaction. The good news is that often this anxiety is usually only temporary until your pet has adequate time to adapt and adjust to the environment - and there are several things that you can do to ensure it gets to this place faster. Here's a closer look:
5 Ways to Reduce Pet Anxiety During Travel or a Move
1. Pack Last, Unpack First
Whether you're taking a vacation for some R&R or moving to a new home, a good rule of thumb to follow when it comes to your pet is to pack its belongings last and then unpack them first thing when you arrive at your destination. This can help accelerate the adjustment into a new space by ensuring your animal isn't without its toys, blankets, dishes or other belongings for an extended period. Your animal likely takes comfort in the familiarity of its own stuff, especially when it comes to any blankets or pillows that it often rests on or have your scent on them.
2. Be Patient
This tip should go without saying, but you'll need to pack your patience as it pertains to your animal adjusting to travel or a new home. It's highly unlikely that your animal won't be impacted in any way by these situations, aside from traveling to a place or home that it has already been before and has some familiarity with. So be patient, show your pet lots of love and do what you can to help ease the transition. In some cases, an ultrasonic training device may be helpful for distracting negative behaviors so you can correct them and teach good behaviors once you arrive at your vacation spot or new residence.
3. Consider Calming Products
If your animal is often anxious, you might consult with your vet before your travels or big move to see if they have any suggestions for making the transition smoother. There are a variety of supplements and calming products out there today that can help relieve stress. Some animals even respond positively to natural scents like lavender. Moreover, some research indicates reduced anxiety in dogs when either classic or reggae music is played. You might need to get a bit creative, but there are certain interventions you can explore to help calm your animal during a stressful time.
4. Make Sure they Can Access 'Safe Spots' Easily
If it's at all possible, we strongly suggest seeing if a friend or family member can take your animal on moving day, as the hustle and bustle can do more to hurt pet anxiety than it can to help it. But even if you can have someone watch your pet, you'll want to make sure that your animal is easily able to access their safe spots as they get acclimated to any new environment once they enter it. If your pet sleeps in a crate, make sure it's made up how they're used to, as this will help serve as a retreat for not just at night, but if they're feeling too overwhelmed at any moment. Make sure to set up their pillows and blankets in an inviting fashion as well.
5. Take a Pre-Move Visit
If you've just purchased a new home, consider taking one or more pre-move visits with your animal after you've closed on the property but before you move in. This can give your animal some crucial time to get used to it. Walking the property with your animal can also shed your scent, which can help reduce anxiety and remind your animal that you're there as well.
