I'm moving to a new home. How can I help ease the transition for my dog?

The most important thing you can do to keep your dog relaxed and happy when you move is to maintain as normal a routine as possible throughout the process. Melissa Bain, Assistant Professor of Clinical Animal Behavior at the UC Davis Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital, explains: “go out for walks, go for play sessions, go for training, et cetera.”

As you pack and unpack, create a comfort zone in a quiet room with the dog’s regular toys, bowls, and bedding. Take time to reassure Fido or Fifi that things are fine. Should the dog show signs of stress, from panting and pacing to full-blown panic and escape behavior, consult your veterinarian. And just in case, make sure your pet’s ID information is up to date.

– Dr. Andrea Looney, DVM for the “Purina® Animal Instincts” Podcast Series

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