When moving into a new house, it can usually take weeks or even months before one can truly feel like they’ve finally settled in. Such a huge change will be sure to disrupt your routines and, at first, make you feel ill at ease in your new environment.
That adjustment period is likely to be just as challenging, if not more, for your pets. Since pets rely heavily on familiar scents, routines, and territories for security, the absence of these elements can lead to some initial shock and anxiety upon moving and, at worst, may even pose safety risks.
As a pet owner, the responsibility falls on you to help your pet adjust to their new environment and make sure your new house is as comfortable and safe for them as possible during that period. Here are some tips you can follow to help your pet feel more at home in your new house:
1. Designate a Pet Zone for Them
First, create a space in your home where your pet can retreat and get comfortable whenever they’re feeling overwhelmed—which may be often in the first few weeks of living in your new home. Ensure that the space is quiet and free from disturbances, such as noisy appliances or heavy foot traffic.
You’ll also want to lay out a cozy bed for them to rest on when they want to, and a feeding station so they know where to expect their meals to be served to them. To make them feel even more at ease, you can also get new toys for your pet—such as customizable plush dog toys in the likeness of characters or items they’re fond of—or simply furnish their space with old comfort items such as their favorite blanket.
2. Choose Durable Flooring
Pets with paws may be tough on floors, which is a consideration you should make for your new living space. Opt for hard surfaces such as tile, vinyl, or laminate so that your new flooring can hold up as strongly as possible against wear and tear. Hard surfaces are also resistant to scratches and are easier to clean, which will make maintenance less of a hassle for you and your surroundings cleaner and more hygienic for you and your pets. If you want carpets in your new home, consider stain-resistant options and use washable rugs in high-traffic areas to make cleaning a breeze despite pets’ natural tendency to bring in dust and dirt.
3. Secure Hazardous Areas
If your pets are left unattended, their curiosity may end up leading them to the more hazardous areas in your home. Moreover, with things still in disarray upon moving in, it may be easy for them to access dangerous items such as cleaning supplies, sharp tools, or electrical cords.
To keep them safe, lock your lower cabinets and organize hazardous items in high or inaccessible storage. Electrical cords should be wrapped in protective covers or hidden using cable organizers to prevent your dogs from chewing them up.
If your new home has a yard, a secure fence is also essential for your pet’s safety. Ensure that the fence is high enough to prevent them from jumping over, and see to it that it doesn’t have any gaps where your pet could escape. If you happen to live in a region with wildlife, the fence should also deter unwanted animals from entering your property and endangering your pets.
4. Invest in Pet-Friendly Furniture
Next, knowing that your pets may often come into contact with your furniture (likely with teeth or claws), choose pieces made with durable and easy-to-clean materials. Microfiber and leather are good at resisting stains and scratches, making them perfect choices for sofas.
Opt for darker colors or patterns as well to obscure fur and stains. For added protection, you may also want to make use of machine-washable slipcovers or throws. Despite all these precautions, however, you’ll still want to train your pets to remain in their designated areas to preserve your furniture’s service life.
5. Maintain a Consistent Temperature in Your Home
Extreme temperatures can be uncomfortable or even dangerous for pets. See to it that your new home has good insulation and a thermostat to keep the temperature steady. Having blankets around during the cold months and cooling mats during the summer can also be a big help. Don’t forget to make sure that your pet’s bed is placed away from direct sunlight or drafts so that they stay comfortable all year round.
6. Incorporate Pet-Friendly Landscaping
Don’t forget to take your pets into account when making landscaping choices for your outdoor area. For one, avoid planting toxic plants such as azaleas, daffodils, and tulips, among others. Always check online or with your veterinarian to ensure that the plants you’ll be adding to your garden aren’t a safety hazard for your pet.
In addition, provide shaded areas where your pet can rest after playing outdoors. You may also consider adding a pet water fountain to keep them hydrated when they’re outside.
7. Provide Enrichment Opportunities
Boredom typically brings out negative behaviors from pets. You’ll want to keep yours occupied with interactive toys, treat puzzles, and scratching posts. For dogs in particular, toys that dispense treats or encourage chewing can be great for mental stimulation. Additionally, schedule regular playtime with your pet or take them out on walks in your new neighborhood to help them expend any excess energy in a healthy manner.
Adapting to huge life changes such as moving into a new house can certainly take time. Make sure that the adjustment period goes smoothly for both you and your pet by taking the time to create a more pet-friendly environment within the space. With the help of the tips listed above, sooner than later, all occupants of your new house—human or otherwise—will start to feel more at home.
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