Back on the Blog
This year, Boo has moved home and then had to deal with major home improvements.
He appears to have taken it all in his stride.
But I feel I need to ask two questions:
Does moving home distress dogs?
and
Does home improvement distress dogs?
Long before Boo’s granny died, we needed to sell her home in order to pay for her continuing care costs.
Of course, it was where I grew up and where my dad died (suddenly at the age of just 50). As a result, I was reluctant to see it go.
So, me, the hubby and our teenage boys opted to sell our home of 16 years, buy mum’s and do it up.
Now, we’ve almost finished the do-ups despite Covid-related delays. Undeniably, we hope to have finished as much as 95% by Christmas.
And, while the disruption has taken its toll on my mental health (the hubby bearing the brunt) of course, Boo has continued take things in his stride.
Or it appears that way.
changed during the building work.
Mitigation?
Quite possibly, a couple of major advantages may have helped Boo get through the move a little easier. He used to love visiting his granny at home up until she needed care – and he may have remembered the house and certainly the area.
In addition, I changed jobs so was at home more often than not. As a result, Boo was hardly at home alone. And, of course, the Covid pandemic meant (and still does mean) that there is always someone at home due to home-working and online lectures for our sons.
So, I would say that such new circumstances have probably meant that Boo may well have suffered less stress than he might otherwise have done.
He’s still had to put up with unfamiliar workers in ‘his’ new home and in ‘his’ garden. And, he’s had to deal with major changes to the ground floor of our home – walls coming down, new ones being built where there were none before etc.
Thankfully, we’ve seen no adverse behaviour. Boo has welcomed strangers into the home and his behaviour patterns don’t seem to have changed. And, of course, Boo being Boo, he hasn’t let it affect his appetite!
Some advice from the experts.
Indeed, I asked the R.S.P.C.A. for some advice for anyone considering moving home with a pet. They told me:
“Moving house can be stressful for everyone involved including your pet. Plan ahead and think about the best way to move your pet so that it is as stress free as possible. Plan your route to minimise journey time and maintain suitable comfort and environmental conditions. Never leave an animal alone in a vehicle.“
The charity also wants to remind pet owners that it is a legal requirement to have your dog microchipped. That includes keeping your details kept up-to-date. So don’t forget to update the relevant microchip database with your new details.
The R.S.P.C.A. also wants to remind dog owners that it is a legal requirement for dogs to wear a collar with identity tag at all times. So don’t forget to get a new ID disc engraved for your pooch.
The charity adds:
“With all the commotion, it’s important to do your best to keep to your dog’s routine as much as possible including regular walks and opportunities to toilet.”
Other advice includes:
When you are really busy unpacking, give your dog a chew or something to play with to keep them busy. Indeed, try not to leave them with nothing to do and don’t let them get bored.
Another great tip is to pack all of your beloved best friend’s things together for the moving day. That way, you will be able to help him/her settle in confidently with their own things immediately.
In addition, fill their water bowl up as soon as you arrive.
For more fab advice or help go to the R.S.P.C.A UK website at:
