The Best Advice for House Hunting Dog Parents

Finding a house that meets the whole family’s needs can be pretty challenging, and on top of that, the moving process can be stressful for everyone involved, including your pooch. Here’s how to hone in on your next abode and how to ease the situation for you and Fido.

Finding That Perfect Place

House hunting can be tough under any circumstances, and of course, you want to be mindful of meeting everyone’s needs, including your furry friend. Developing your search criteria will help you narrow house selection, and the best place to start is with your dog. Think about how active your dog is and how much space he needs. For instance, some dogs are pretty low-energy, while other dogs need room to run. Dogs that lounge a lot might do fine with a small house and leashed walks, while those who need to blow off steam would be better off with a larger, fenced yard. You can always add a fence to an otherwise suitable house, but you should weigh that into your budget. To give you a good starting point, the average homeowner in New York City normally pays between $1,500 and $3,933 to install a wood fence.

When looking at specific properties, think about your dog’s situation, now and in the future. For instance, older dogs often struggle with climbing stairs. If your dog has mobility concerns or you would struggle to help him later in life, you might prefer a single-story home. Another consideration is flooring. Bob Vila suggests putting vinyl, hardwood, and other solid-surface flooring at the top of your preferences since they are durable and easy to clean.

Lifestyle also weighs into the picture. If you enjoy getting out and about with your dog, choosing a location close to a dog park might be a priority. If you walk with your dog a lot, a neighborhood with safe sidewalks and minimal traffic could weigh into your decision. If you’re flexible on destination, you can choose an area that is especially dog-friendly; for example, in upstate New York, you and Fido could explore towns like Ithaca, Saratoga Springs, or Lake George. Before committing, however, always check in with local laws and neighborhood association restrictions to make sure you and your dog will be comfortable.

Making the Transition

Dogs can get nervous with the commotion of packing, so make it a point to box up belongings gradually. Plan to pack your dog’s things last, and unpack them first when you reach your new home. No matter how tempting it is, steer clear of purchasing all new things for your dog, since the familiarity of his usual belongings can provide comfort in the new place.

On moving day, set your dog up a nice, quiet space away from all the hubbub, ideally in a room where you can close the door. Another idea is to hire a pet sitter (who may charge $10 to $65 per day), or take your dog to a friend or family member for the day. The key is to keep your dog out of harm’s way, lower his stress, and reduce your worries about him.

Long-distance moves with dogs can become complicated, especially if you need to fly with Fido. Airlines have varied regulations, but are typically quite strict, so check policies before you make plans. A road trip is generally easier on your dog, so if possible, plan on driving. VetStreet recommends ensuring you acclimate your dog to car travel beforehand for best results. If your dog tends toward anxiety or car sickness, check in with your vet before you move so she can discuss medications that could help.

Moving is stressful no matter what the circumstances are, but it can be particularly hard on your pooch. Find a home you’ll both be happy with, and plan the transition carefully. With your good choices, you and Fido will happily and quickly settle in.