Understanding Veterinary ConcernsUnderstanding Veterinary Concerns

If you're in the process of relocating, and you're bringing the family dog, you'll need to take some precautionary steps. You might not realize this, but your dog may be in danger for a few weeks after the move. That's because the surroundings will no longer familiar, which means it won't know it's way around. To make sure that your dog doesn't get lost once you move, here are four important steps you should take.

Invest in a Microchip

Now that you'll be relocating, you want to make sure that your dog will be easy to identify if it gets out of your new yard. The best way to do that is to invest in a microchip. The microchip will ensure that animal control will be able to locate you, and reunite you with your dog, should it run away. Your veterinarian will be able to take care of the procedure for you, which means you should schedule an appointment before you move.

Once the microchip is in place, any veterinarian, or animal control agent, will be able to identify the information by scanning your dog. While you're having your dog microchipped, it's also a good idea to purchase a new identification tag for your dog. The new identification tag should include your dogs name and your phone number.

Go for a Walk Around the Neighborhood

Once you get to your new home, you'll want to get your dog acclimated with the new neighborhood. One way to do that is to head out for a walk. Put the leash on your dog, and talk a walk down all the streets around your home. Be sure to take short walks each time, so that your dog can get used to the path that you take. The walks will help your dog recognize the sights and sounds that surround the new home. That way, if your dog does happen to wander away from home, it will be able to find its way back.

Take a Current Picture of Your Dog

If you haven't taken a recent picture of your dog, now's a good time to do that. If your dog wanders away from home, the new picture will help give your new neighbors make a positive identification. While you're taking the new picture, be sure to get a good view of your dogs new identification tag. That way the photograph will provide additional information for identification.

Keep Your Dog Close By for a Few Days

Your dog may want to go outside to explore the yard as soon as you move in. Go ahead and let it out to use the bathroom, but avoid leaving your dog alone for at least the first few days. Instead, try to keep your dog close by for several days after you move in. The extra closeness will help your dog adjust, which will reduce its stress, and it's desire to roam.

If you've moved with your dog, take these steps to help smooth the transition. If your dog exhibits signs of anxiety about the move, contact local vets via a 24 hour animal hospital. You may also need to consider medication until your dog becomes accustomed to the change.