A while ago, we told you about the problems ARISTOPARENTS face when trying to find a new rental home where their ARISTOPETS are welcome. Generally speaking, most landlords prefer their homes to be occupied solely by people and, in many cases, even oppose the presence of pets in their properties. Logically, they have every right to do so, but it is still surprising that this continues to happen in 2017. Mainly because, as we always say, if a rented home is not left in good condition when a tenant moves out, it is in no way the pet's responsibility or fault. It is the owner's responsibility, as they are the pet's guardian or person responsible for it.
But moving house is not only a headache when it comes to finding a home that allows your pet. The change of "territory" or space also affects ARISTOCATS and ARISTODOGS, as well as their mood and behavior.
This is because our ARISTOPETS are territorial. Especially cats, who seem to be more difficult to please. Cats mark out and define their territory. This means they rub their bodies against objects or scratch them to show who owns the place (their paw pads contain glands that secrete a substance with a distinctive smell, which they use to scent everything that belongs to them). But, in general, as we said, most companion animals see their home as their world. So changing homes can have consequences.
That is why today we are sharing some advice to make your dog's or cat's adjustment as easy and pleasant as possible for everyone:
1. Take it slowly
Do it calmly, one step at a time. Ideally, your pet should get to know the space before moving into it. If possible (especially if it is a dog, as it will be easier), take them with you to visit your new home. The first time you go to see it, make sure your dog has played enough and has "tired themselves out" sufficiently to be relaxed and calm.
2. Their things
You are not the only one moving. Your cat or dog has things too, of course, and you should gradually take them to the new home. If you take everything at once, they may be left with nothing to play with in the home where you currently live. And that is not ideal either. That is why we recommend that each time you visit the new home with your pet, you take one of their toys or belongings so they can see that it is also a pleasant and fun place.
3. Their bed
You may think your cat or dog deserves a new bed because of the house move. But nothing could be further from the truth, at least at first. It is best for them to recognize their bed, detect their own scent, and understand that it is "their place". Without a doubt, this will help them adjust considerably.
4. Don't spoil them
You may also think that one way to reward them is to let them do whatever they want in this new home, but that is not the case. To avoid disrupting them, their routine and lifestyle should remain the same as always. So stand firm.
5. Be patient
This is probably the most important advice. Moving house is hard for everyone. Every member of the family needs time to adjust and feel settled. It may not be easy at first, or you may feel that there has been a "regression" in your best friend's training, but be patient: as soon as they realize that they are also the kings of that house and that they are loved just as much as before, everything will return to normal.
