The First 3 Weeks: What to Expect When Your Relocated Dog Arrives Home

Having your dear friend finally get off a plane in a new place is a delightful experience, no matter where they’re coming from, be it short distance or a long distance move, such as pets relocation Dubai to London. However, that excitement is combined with some worry. How do I get my dog to feel safe and at home once again?

For us, a new house means new beginnings, but for dogs, the move can be very confusing. A new, strange place, with no familiar smells, and no predictable order. Dogs can quickly feel overwhelmed, and we should recognize that moving takes more than physical effort. A dog’s emotional health should be as important as their physical health, and it should be your priority.

The Foundation of Security: Routine and Familiarity

Security, in the form of routine and predictability, is of the utmost requirement in a dog’s world. While dogs need predictability where their moving costs us, they will need your focus to rebuild their security.

Be the Clock: Routine is one of your most powerful tools. Continue following the same schedule of feeding, walking, and playtime. Canines appreciate predictability, and there is nothing more predictable than a well-timed schedule. It will help the nervous system understand that, while the surroundings may be new, the anchor points of their life are still in the same solid schedule of control.

Scent is Soul: Try not to buy dog accessories new! Old beds, favorite worn blankets, and well-chewed toys are just as important. They hold your dog’s scent; as well as the essence of their previous life, which is immediately available through touch. It is also important to reserve a small sanctuary. Keep a quiet corner that has their bed where they know they can go to escape if the new area feels like too much to handle.

Positive Association is Key: Transform the caution that your dog may feel in the new house into something positive! The new space can be a fun place by using high-value treats and playful reinforcement. Treats in a new room and a “find it” game is a great way to play and a terrific way to help your dog create a positive memory.

Understanding Signs of Anxiety After Moving

In the aftermath of a big move, it’s perfectly reasonable to expect signs of anxiousness. This could range from being a little over clingy, to having a mild upset stomach, to being a little more reluctant to play. However, when long distance travel is involved, for instance, when pets to Dubai are flown, animals are said to experience travel stress. Stress hormones (cortisol) are elevated and take a few days to return to baseline. And yes, they are smart enough to ask, “Where did my old life go?”

Having concerning signs which are out of your hands, like excessive lethargy, prolonged appetite refusal, or sudden aggression, needs immediate attention from a veterinarian. In the case of relocation anxiety, the negative symptoms will gradually fade to almost nothing as you consistently and ensure that they return to the old routine. The main thing you need to ensure working is your empathy, and that will of course be to your greatest extent.

The Importance of “One New Thing at a Time”

You likely want to dive into the new neighborhood, but it is important to take the new places, people, and pups one at a time with a few days in between. Each new stimulus is a potential stressor. Try to give your dog several quiet days to clear their mind to the new walking route before you introduce them to another person. Gradual exposure will help with “stress stacking” in their system and allow their mind to ease and relax a little.

If you have persistent anxiety or aggression, it is perfectly reasonable to seek help. There are qualified positive reinforcement trainers who are local to you and help you improve your bond in the new set-up.

Moving houses with all your family members, including your dog, is a challenging task. When it comes to your dog, being their support means having a consistent routine, including gentle, slow introductions to parts of your new life, and providing familiar comforts to ease their transition. To those who are about to relocate, our best recommendation is to work with professionals who provide pet relocation services in Dubai and will deal with every aspect of your relocation, from the most complicated papers to the organization of your flights. When relocating pets to Dubai, it is important to plan travel arrangements in a way that will allow you to prioritize your dog to ensure their comfort and happiness when you get to your new home.