Don't forget the family pet in the move.

Now I am sure that there have been folks that have actually forgotten to put their pet in the car when they move.  Or even those terrible folks who knowingly leave man's best friend behind.  I am neither thankfully.  But one cannot forget the family pet when it comes to moving.  Case in point....our dog Jager. Now Jager is a rescue dog that we found 4 years ago.  He has added a ton of joy to our lives and really is the best dog ever.  But a move can be very traumatic for the family pet too.  This move we went from our old house into my hubby's temporary apartment.  600 SQ ft, 2 kids, 2 adults & 1 dog.  A tad too cozy for my liking, but then again we were only in the Cave for a month.  I think the whole process was very upsetting for the pooch.  First of all, he had to ride an elevator to go out to relieve himself.  That alone was very traumatic.  It took a few tries, and then he got used to it.  And eventually he actually enjoyed it.  He thought it was amazing that the special doors opened and occasionally out would come another dog.  He was very disappointed when that did not happen, but the anticipation made him want to leave the apartment.  Once we got past that,  he had to get used to a more Urban setting.  He did not like buses going by, and could not understand why he had to be on a leash all of the time. (previously he was allowed to free-walk on our walks.  He was very cranky with me) It then occurred to me that perhaps I should start taking him to more of a neighborhood setting to walk, similar to what we had been in.  Well this made a world of difference.  Since our new house was over 30 minutes away I just opted for a lovely neighborhood 5 minutes away.  He loved it.  There were mailboxes and lawns and even geese to chase.  I think he felt at home a little more.  We have since moved into our new home.  He has less runaround space but he has made many new doggie friends.  We make sure to get him out, especially in the neighborhood so that he can get to know the other doggies in the hood.  He already knows those that are friendly and playful, as well as those to leave alone.  And now he also has 2 little girls next door that adore him and love him up every chance they get.
He is eating well again, and seems to be a much happier dog.  It may have taken a little bit of effort, but he is worth it.  After all he is a member of the family.

Here are some ways to help your "Jager" move in:

• Find your local dog parks and go to play.  Chances are you might meet some nice folks too!
• Walk around your neighborhood and meet the other dogs.
• Invite new neighbors over for a doggie playtime.
• Make sure that he gets out of the house with you, even if it is a car ride to pick up a child.
• Give him lots of love!
• www.beneful.com/wagworld
• DogFriendly.com/DogParks