We are so pleased to once again welcome guest blogger Nick Burton of ourbestdoggo.com.

Today we share an article Nick has written exclusively for our site. This topic is especially relevant in my own life as I am currently living in two different states on opposite sides of the country - one in the summer and one in the winter. Having a pet has been a challenge for sure and as more and more of us are retiring or able to work remotely, multi-state living has become a real option for many of us. 

This article will be a great resource for anyone considering multi-state living, either now or in the future.

How to Navigate Multi-State Living With Pets
 
Owning and managing properties in several states is a lot of work - especially if you’re a pet owner, too! Caring for your furry friends while moving between homes can take up a lot of time and energy. By looking up expert pet care advice from Loyal Pit Bull Love, you can ensure that you’re always meeting your pets’ needs. Plus, these tips will help you outfit your homes, choose the right insurance policies, and more!
 
Keeping Your Homes Stocked
 
Do you find yourself packing up lots of pet care items to cart between your properties? Instead of dealing with this dilemma time after time, you can ensure that all of your properties are stocked with essential items for your pets. For example, you’ll want to keep crates, harnesses, leashes, treats, food, and even medications in your separate properties.
 
When you’re shopping for pet care items, you might look up product reviews. It never hurts to check out customer ratings, but reviews from veterinarians should carry more weight. You can find pet retail websites that include expert reviews from veterinarians.
 
Choosing Insurance Policies
 
If you own homes in multiple states, where should you take out insurance policies? By splitting your time evenly between states, you can simply enroll in insurance plans in the state that offers cheaper policies. This is an easy way to save on car insurance and health insurance. However, you can also use this approach to find affordable pet insurance for your animal companions!
 
Organizing Your Life
 
As a pet owner, you need to stay on top of your pets’ routines so that they will always feel happy and healthy, regardless of which home you’re staying in at a given time! Come up with a system that allows you to take care of your pets’ needs upon arriving at one of your properties. Hiring pet sitters or dog walkers in each area can help - when you get home, you can schedule them to come give you a hand!
 
Saving Money
 
Moving around frequently can get pricey. To ensure that you’re not overspending in unnecessary areas, you can make some budget-friendly lifestyle changes. Stock the pantries and deep freezers in your homes with non-perishable foods so that you won’t waste your grocery budget. Furthermore, consider swapping your cable bill for streaming subscriptions to watch whatever you want, wherever you want!
 
Managing Your Cost of Living
 
Moving between several states means that you’ll notice wildly different costs for many essential living expenses. By taking advantage of lower costs in certain states, you can easily keep your cost of living under control. For example, these necessities will generally have a wide range of prices across state lines:

• You can find a storage unit quick in Los Angeles, CA, for approximately $212.20 per month.
• On average, owning a dog in Hartford, CT, will cost you around $1,350 per year for basics like supplies, food, vet visits, medications, and more.
• Mass Bay Movers states that renting in Boston, MA will run you about 62.67% more than renting in Providence, RI.
• The average monthly cost of health insurance in New Haven, CT is generally about $575.
• If you’re buying groceries in Manchester, NH, Payscale states that you can expect to spend about 4% more than the national average.

 
Living across multiple states as a pet owner is definitely overwhelming at times. But by managing your time and money well, you can make it work. With these strategies, you can stay organized, save money, and make smart pet care decisions!
 
Interested in adopting a pit bull? Learn more about these amazing dogs on Loyal Pit Bull Love! Visit our website today to get answers to all of your big questions about pit bulls.
 
Photo via Pexels

Thank you Nick for sharing these helpful tips. I know that I personally will benefit from this information. 

​Be sure to visit ourbestdoggo.com for tips, resources and support. A must for all pet lovers!

Those of us who suffer through seemingly endless cold winters often dream of moving to a place with a warmer climate - like Florida. Our friend Jessica Brody of ourbestfriends.pet has written this exclusive article for us with many excellent tips for moving with pets.

We hope you will enjoy this article.

How to Make Moving to Florida With Your Pets a Breeze

Florida may be the Sunshine State, but that doesn’t mean it’s any less stressful than the other 49 states when relocating. Between finding new employment and figuring out where you’re going to live, moving from another state can be frustrating and challenging — especially if you have a pet that requires your attention. For those moving to Florida with their furry friends in tow, here are some tips and advice to make the process smoother.

Considerations When Moving Pets

​If you're hiring professional movers, find out whether they're comfortable and experienced with moving pets. Ask your veterinarian for recommendations on pet-friendly movers in Hartford and for tips on keeping your pet safe during the move. If you're driving to your new home, ensure you take plenty of breaks so your pet can stretch its legs and use the restroom. Once you arrive at your new home, take some time to pet-proof the house before letting your furry friend loose.

Preparing Your Cat for the Move

The first step is to get your cat used to their carrier; it will be their home during the move, so they must be comfortable in it. Put their pet crate in a central location in your home and leave the door open so they can explore it and get used to it. You may also want to put some of their favorite toys or treats inside to make it more inviting.
Preparing Your Dog for the Move

If you're moving to Florida from Hartford, there are a few things you'll need to do to prepare your dog for the trip. First, make sure your dog is up-to-date on all their vaccinations. You'll also want to get them microchipped in case they get lost during the move. Get them used to car rides, as they'll likely spend lots of time in the car during the move.

Tips on How To Make It Easier for Your Pet To Adjust

Start by pet-proofing your new home before your pet arrives — this will help cut stress for you and your pet. Get your pet acclimated to their new surroundings by taking them on short walks around the neighborhood or visiting local parks. Try to keep your pet's routine as similar as possible to their previous home in Hartford, as this will help them feel more comfortable and secure.

Purchasing Pet Insurance

Before you move, it's crucial to buy pet insurance. Insurance will help you financially if your pet becomes ill or injured en route or after you've settled into your new home. But it can be hard to decide what's the best Florida pet insurance, so be sure to review sample quotes and customer reviews before choosing pet insurance. Consider the coverage level, deductibles, premiums, and pet age covered.

A Happy New Home

​Moving to Florida with your pets doesn't have to be stressful. Be sure to plan, find a pet-friendly home, purchase pet insurance, and help your furry friends settle into your new surroundings.
Visit Hartford-based Loyal Pit Bull Love to learn about pit bulls and other maligned breeds.

Image via Pexels

Thank you so much Jessica for these insightful tips on moving with your pets, whether it is to Florida or anywhere else.

We are pleased to once again welcome Jessica Brody of ourbestfriends.pet. This site is a lot of fun for pet lovers everywhere. It contains photos, stories, resources and lots more. We hope you will check it out and look around the site. You are certain to enjoy the content. 

Today Jessica has written an informative article for any pet owner considering a move to downsize. This is an exclusive article just for us and we know you will enjoy it. 

Thank you Jessica for sharing and we hope to read more of your work in the future!

Making the decision to downsize your home is major, but it’s a choice that might bring you peace. Doing this when you have pets means you need to take some special considerations into account. It’s imperative that you handle things in the proper way, so it all goes as smoothly as possible.

There are two main things to take care of when you’re downsizing. One of these is to sell your current home. The other one is to find and purchase a smaller home. Ensure the smaller home is pet-friendly, so your furry animals can remain safe when you move. Loyal Pit Bull Love presents some tips that will make this process a little less stressful.

Prepare the Home to SellYou have to get your home ready to sell before you even put it on the market. Routine maintenance helps keep the home in good condition and presentable when the time comes to sell it. Make sure the outside of the home looks nice so that it makes a great first impression on prospective buyers. Ensure the landscaping is neat and tidy, and have the roof inspected and any defects fixed.

Also, clean the gutters. While you might be tempted to do this yourself, this is a job that’s better suited for a professional. They can clean the gutters and possibly repair any minor damage that’s present. Expect to pay an average of $106 to $167, but larger homes may run upwards of $350 for a full gutter cleaning.

Taking care of repairs, such as fixing leaking pipes, can also help with the sale of the home. Complete any updates you can afford that might increase the sale price or appeal of the home. Some repairs, such as fixing broken windows, can improve the security of the home, which is appealing to potential buyers.

Find Your New, Smaller, Pet-Friendly HomeOnce you decide to sell your current home, you need to look for a new home. Start by making a list of the features you want it to have, so your real estate professional can help you find good possibilities. At a minimum, you need to know the number of bedrooms and bathrooms you want. Make note of any pet-related features, such as a spacious fenced-in yard, that the home must include.  

Also, consider the down payment and closing costs that you need to pay. Making sure you have the funds available to do this is important when you’re hunting for a home.

You need to know the price range you can afford for a new home. Getting preapproval for a mortgage is necessary. Look at the available rates, so you know what to expect. There are differences between conventional, VA, and FHA loans. Taking a look at all the mortgage types you qualify for, as well as speaking to a mortgage lender about your options, can help you to determine which one is the best one for your needs.
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Make the Process as Easy as PossibleMaking the process of selling your current home and buying a new one as easy as possible is a priority. Planning your steps and creating a checklist can make things go a bit smoother.

Once again we are pleased to welcome Cindy Aldrich of Our Dog Friends. Cindy is a freelance writer and dog lover. She started Our Dog Friends as a fun side project for herself and to educate pet owners and potential pet owners about how dogs can enrich our lives. She enjoys writing about dogs and pet ownership.We hope you will enjoy her lastest article written exclusively for us. Thank you Cindy! 

Winter Is Coming. Is Your Dog Ready?
 
Winter is almost here as temperatures continue to drop. But is your dog ready for colder weather, snow, and ice? If you’re not sure how to answer that, keep reading for some tips courtesy of Loyal Pit Bull Love.

What does my dog need?
 
What your pet needs for the cold winter months depends upon where you live, their breed, and the activities that you will partake in together. If you do not have a dog yet, but you are preparing to make one a part of your family, it pays to do some research on the breed.
 
That said, most dogs can benefit from a few basic supplies. An ample store of dry cloths at the door when you come in for your afternoon walk, particularly on rainy or snowy days, will help reduce the potential for ear infections. If you live in an area where freezing weather is common, a pair of dog booties can help keep their feet warm and dry. Pets that live in the city, where sidewalks are treated with salt, will benefit from a three-month supply of Vaseline to reduce dryness and irritation on delicate paws.
 
Eating Habits
 
Unfortunately, with cooler weather means less time outdoors for both you and your pet. Because of this, you’ll want to watch their eating habits. Dog Food Insider suggests keeping a close eye on the treats you feed them. Avoid the temptation to sneak Spot a little nibble of turkey or ham, and remember, these are unnecessary calories. If you do want to treat your animal, and they have already shown signs of anxiety, pain, or arthritis, consider giving them CBD treats instead of traditional snacks. CBD can assist with these issues and more, but you’ll also want to pay close attention here to the ingredients and dosage and each treat.
 
Basic Hygiene
 
Although your human kids may take fewer showers now that they’re not running, jumping, and sweating every day, you cannot neglect your pet’s hygiene, even during the winter. The American Kennel Club recommends keeping your dog’s feet clean and making sure to trim foot fuzz, which can be a haven for uncomfortable ice balls. Keep your dog brushed well as matted fur simply doesn’t insulate them against the cold anywhere near as well as a clean coat.
 
Indoors And Out
 
Whether you plan on spending lots of time outside or not, there’s no denying that the air is cooler both indoors and out. Make sure that your dog has a warm place to snuggle up after each walk. If they live primarily outdoors, this may be an insulated doghouse. Another option is purchasing your pup an indoor doghouse, but you’ll need to consider your dog’s size and how much space you have in your home. Smaller, indoor dogs may benefit from a heated dog bed, particularly those breeds with a short coat and low body fat – think greyhounds and pit bulls.
 
At the end of the day, everything that you supply your dog will really have to do with their build, temperament, and activities. But, remember, no matter what you buy, make sure to invest in quality food, products, and accessories. Doing so will not only save you money in the long run, but will ensure that your beloved bow wow has what they need to stay safe and healthy until the warm season returns.
 
Image via Pexels

Today we are very excited to share an article written exclusively for us by Penny Martin of Furever Friend. 

Penny has owned pets her entire life and has used the benefits of her vast experience to help other pet owners, both personally and through her site.

We hope you will enjoy the article and will also check out her site for lots of other helpful tips.

Thank you Penny for choosing our site as a platform to share your knowledge with others.

How a First-Time Dog Owner Can Prepare to Bring Home a Pit Bull

If you are a first-time pet owner preparing to adopt a pit bull, it’s important to be well educated about how to offer your new canine companion the best possible care. Even if you have spent a lot of time working or playing with dogs in the past, owning your own pup involves added responsibilities and considerations. And you should be aware, too, of the unique needs and characteristics of this often misunderstood dog. Here are some steps to take to prepare you to welcome your new pit bull pal into your home.

Spend some time learning about pit bulls and pit bull types.

Did you know there’s not only one kind of pit bull? In fact, “pit bull” is not, in itself, a breed, but rather a general term for four different breeds that are often lumped together under the name. These breeds are the American Pitbull Terrier, the American Staffordshire Terrier, the Staffordshire Bull Terrier, and the American Bully – and all four of these breeds have different characteristics, including size, temperament, and appearance.

Decide which type is right for you.

Pit bulls in general are athletic, strong, and energetic, which is why they were used as fighting dogs and for bull baiting in the past – part of the reason for their negative reputation, unfortunately. But they are also loyal and affectionate. If you have a smaller home, you should opt for a smaller pit bull type, such as the Staffordshire Bull Terrier or American Bully. However, both these breeds are still highly energetic and need a lot of exercise as well as regular human interaction. If you’re looking for an athletic working dog, the American Staffordshire Terrier is a good choice. Whichever type of pit bull you choose, be prepared to spend time on their care and training; these are not dogs that can just be left to amuse themselves.

Prepare your home for your new pet.

You should have an area of your home indoors specifically set aside for your dog, especially when they first arrive, so they can settle in more easily. Once they are used to their new space they can get comfortable roaming, but it’s preferable to let them adjust to a single room initially. Dog-proof the room and the entire house so your new pet won’t have access to toxic plants or foods, chew on wires, or be able to damage household items. Also prepare an outdoor area for them where they can run and play easily and burn off some of that famous pit bull energy. Your outdoor area should be safely fenced so your dog can’t escape or wander onto others’ property.

Purchase pet supplies.

Make a shopping list of everything you will need to care for and entertain your pit bull. This includes food and feeding dishes, a bed or crate, a collar and leash, dog toys, and grooming supplies. Also make sure your dog is licensed and that you have an ID tag with your contact information securely attached to their collar.

Be prepared to clean up after your pit bull.

No matter how careful you are and how well-groomed your pet, the reality is there will be messes – indoor and out. You will need to clean up after your dog regularly when they’ve done their business outdoors so your lawn doesn’t become stinky and unhygienic. Also be prepared to deal with the occasional mess indoors, especially if you bring home a puppy who is not house trained yet. Stock up on odor neutralizers and safe cleaning supplies. If your pup ends up soiling furniture, look for the best upholstery cleaning service near me, and compare rates, customer reviews, and deals being offered by local companies. Avoid those with an all-in-one cleaning approach; companies that depend solely on a steam cleaner don’t have the tools or expertise needed to ensure your furniture is truly sanitized.

Owning a pit bull may not be for everyone, but pit bull owners who are willing to put in the time to care for these intelligent and athletic dogs will be rewarded with their lifelong devotion and affection. Loyal Pit Bull Love can provide you with further information as well as useful resources on caring for pit bulls.
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Image via Pixabay

Today we are delighted to once again welcome guest blogger Nick Burton of ourbestdoggo.com. Nick and his wife Mary developed this site to help other dog lovers in all aspects of dog ownership. He has written the following article exclusively for our site so please enjoy it and please check out Nick and Mary's site as well. We thank you Nick for this wonderful article 

Photo by Unsplash

How To Start a Business When You’re Welcoming a New Pet to the Family
 
Are you thinking about adopting a pet in the midst of starting a home-based business? While you certainly have your work cut out for you, both decisions can help lead to a happy and fulfilling life. The key is to make sure you dedicate sufficient time to your pet, your business venture, and your personal life. Loyal Pit Bull Love offers the following tips to help you balance your time properly between business, pleasure, and raising a pet.
 
Set Your Business up the Right Way
 
The first thing you should do when starting a home-based business is research the different business structures available. The four main business structures are corporations, limited liability companies (also known as LLCs), sole proprietorships and partnerships. You’ll find that most home-based businesses are set up as either sole proprietorships or LLCs.
 
If you’re looking for a business structure that’s flexible, easy to set up, offers tax advantages, and limits your personal liability, an LLC is the right way to go. You’ll need to take a look at the regulations for LLCs in your state to make sure you’re fully complying with the law. If you want to save money and avoid exorbitant lawyer fees, consider using a business formation service to form an LLC in Connecticut.
 
Create Distinct Spaces for Your Office and Pet
 
Just as you need a personal area to sleep, you also need to set aside a distinct area for your work. While you’re at it, take some time to figure out where your new pet’s personal area will be. You can set it up inside your office, nearby, or in a completely separate area of your home. But try not to put it somewhere so far out of the way that your pet will feel lonely and alone. You want to make sure your newest family member knows he or she is a valued member of “the pack.”
 
Set Aside Sufficient Time for Work, Play and Pet Care
 
It can be hard to manage your time when you work from home and also care for a pet. One way to make sure you don’t neglect any important areas of your life is to create a schedule that allows you to set aside sufficient time for work, play and pet care. Determine what time you’ll start work, what time you’ll end it and how many breaks you’ll take throughout the day. Be prepared to be flexible, since you can’t predict when your pet may need a potty break or require attention throughout the day.
 
Train Your Pet
 
One of the most important things you can do for your pet and yourself is reserve time for training. If you don’t have the time or the know-how to train your pet all by yourself, you may want to hire a trainer. The cost is definitely worth it, as a trainer will know how to help your pet learn the house rules very quickly. When you have a well-trained pet, you have less stress because you don’t need to worry about your animal misbehaving while you’re trying to focus on your work. If your dog does start to act unruly, it may be an indication that you need to give him or her a little bit more attention throughout the day.
 
Owning a pet and starting a home-based business can be challenging but fun. Follow these helpful tips to make both adventures as pleasant as possible.
​

We are delighted to share the following article, created exclusively for our site. It was written by Joanne Speed of the website readysetpuppy.com/. This is a relatively new site, dedicated to helping prospective puppy owners and owners of new puppies to understand and properly care for their new furry friends. We hope you will enjoy this article and also check out this awesome site. You will find a wealth of information pertaining to many different types of dogs that will benefit even the most experienced dog lovers. We thank Joanne for creating this for us!

Staffordshire Bull Terriers: Lovers and not Fighters
 
One breed that gets a lot of attention is the Staffordshire Bull Terrier. Over the years, it’s not always been positive. Unfortunately, this breed has been misused in parts of the world due to their natural athleticism and strength. But real ‘staffy’ owners will tell you a different story; the real story of the Staffordshire Bull Terrier. They’re lovers and not fighters. Full of love and affection, they make the best family pet whether you’ve got young kids or old dogs in your household.
 
The Loving Staffy
 
Let’s be honest with the Staffordshire Bull Terrier’s British past. It was a breed developed for blood sports in England, involved ratting and bull-baiting. They were also used for dogfighting. But when these sports were outlawed in 1835 in the UK, the centuries that followed allowed responsible breeding to take its place. The Staffordshire Bull Terrier, known lovingly as the ‘staffy’, became a family companion due to their affectionate and loving nature. This is why staffies are still one of the most popular breeds in the UK today.
 
Of course, most dogs are described as loving and devoted to their owners. They’re pack animals that love to please. But my experience with staffies is that they don’t just love their human; they adore everyone they meet. With their infamous huge smile, they crave human interaction, perhaps more than they do with other dogs. I’d go as far as to say the breed is obsessed with humans.
 
The Positives
 
When you’re looking to introduce a dog into your home, you want them to become part of your family. With such a loving personality, the Staffy is the perfect match. They’ll immediately greet everyone and make sure everyone gets a cuddle and licks. After that, you’ll have a loving dog for life. My Staffy was abandoned in the Yorkshire Moors and despite her difficult past, she’s always been affectionate towards everyone she meets. She instantly trusts everyone and can’t wait to have some fun. Instead of being protective and guarding our home, she welcomes everyone who comes through the door with a wagging tail! This can be just what you need after a long day.
 
When I take my Staffy to the local pub, she’s the talk of the town. Everyone can’t wait to see her and she loves all of the attention. She’s wagging her tail at everyone that comes in and if you make eye contact, she won’t stop until you’ve greeted her!
 
This is a breed that is a suitable companion for a family home with children. They’ve even earned the nickname, ‘nanny dog’, due to their affectionate nature. In fact, there are only three breeds mentioned by the Kennel Club that are suitable for households with young children. You’ve guessed it; the Staffordshire Bull Terrier is one of them. Of course, it’s essential that any dog is supervised around children. But you can enjoy peace of mind when owning this breed if you have young kids in the house. They’ll accept attention from anyone.
 
Since staffies love their owners so much, it can make them easier to train. They love to please and are eager to be taught more commands by their favorite human. Treats definitely help too! They’re loving nature makes them enthusiastic and you can introduce a training session at any time of the day; they’ll be ready.
 
The Downsides
 
Are there any downsides to the loving nature of Staffies? Well, there are certainly some things you might want to consider. Since they love their humans so much, they can become clingy. Say goodbye to ever going to the bathroom by yourself again! Some staffies can become velcro dogs; they want to be by your side all the time and they follow you everywhere. If you like your independence, this is something to consider. Since this breed is also known for being high-energy, they won’t always want to just sit beside you either. They might have a ball or rope ready for tug-of-war. If you’re busy, this can become frustrating or if you don’t have time to play.
 
Adoring humans mean that Staffies don’t like to spend much time alone. Their sociable nature means they will crave attention whenever you’re home. If you work long hours then a Staffy will miss you a lot during the day. It is possible they could become destructive if they’re bored without stimulation when you’re away. With some training and toys, this could be avoided. While some dogs relax and enjoy afternoon naps, the Staffy can be the complete opposite. They’ll want you to play and interact with them. If you’re looking for a lazy dog that becomes part of the furniture, you may want to consider another breed!
 
Another consideration is the friends and family you have. Do they like dogs? Are they comfortable with being licked and jumped on? Staffies don’t know boundaries sometimes and definitely don’t know a lot about personal space. If you hang around with someone that doesn’t like or is scared of dogs, they could find this overwhelming. Staffies adore everyone but you’ve got to remember that not everyone feels the same about our furry friends.
 
While Staffies can be easier to train because they love you, they may also need more training to understand calmness. They can jump all over you, which not everybody wants. It can be necessary to teach them some manners when around other people. This is something that can stop with training and they’ll be eager to learn. So, it shouldn’t become a problem.

The Verdict
 
With their loving personalities, Staffies have so much to offer. They’ll become best friends with everyone they meet; I can’t go on one walk without my Staffy stopping to greet someone! Their adoration for humans makes them the perfect family companion, even if you have young kids. It’s important to make time for your Staffy; this will make sure they’re happy and content. Don’t pay attention to the history of the Staffordshire Bull Terrier, look forward to the future with your bright and loving companion!

Once again, we are delighted to welcome guest blogger Nick Burton of ourbestdoggo.com. 

Nick and his wife Mary had fifteen years with their dog Willie before he crossed the bridge. They have spent the past year grieving and helping others navigate the process of caring for an elderly pet. Nick and Mary have also dedicated their site to offering tips, resources and support to dog lovers everywhere.

We know you will enjoy this article and hope you will also check out ourbestdoggo.com and explore all that the site has to offer.

Thank you Nick for sharing your insights with us here.

Try These Tips to Help Your Pet Age With Grace
 
Pets age and, just like people, they experience changes with each passing year. Because of this, as your furry friends reach their seventh or eighth year, you’ll need to start thinking about ways to enhance their lives at home. From home modifications to simple changes you can make starting today, the following tips can help you and your pets enjoy their golden years.
 
Combat mobility issues.
 
If your dog has to go up and down stairs to get in and out of the house, consider buying or building a ramp. Many dogs experience mobility issues later in life. Arthritis and hip dysplasia, for example, can make it more difficult for them to navigate an 8” to 10” step. Because getting up and down off the couch or bed can be a challenge for an older pet, you can also build an adjustable ramp to help here as well. DIY Network explains that plywood, hinges, a few tools, and a long afternoon are almost all you need.
 
Consider urinary incontinence.
 
Urinary incontinence has many causes in cats and dogs alike. American Veterinary explains it can result from a congenital abnormality, among other things. Commonly, animals have less control over their bladder and bowels as they age. As a responsible and loving pet owner, you will want to get ahead of issues that might arise from bathroom accidents. One way to do this is to modify your behavior so that you can take your pet outside more often. This may not be practical, however, so consider adding a dog door, which will give them unrestricted access to their bathroom of choice: the backyard. A word of caution here is to be patient. They may have many accidents, and getting rid of the smell and discoloration can be frustrating. It’s not impossible, however, you just have to get creative and be willing to do everything from clean the carpets to replace the subfloor in areas they tend to frequent.
 
Create convenience.
 
Plan to carve out a corner of the room that your pets rest in most often so that they will have a place dedicated to their personal belongings. Their area should have a bed and any toys, blankets, or bones they enjoy. To keep things contained, have a bucket or wicker basket nearby. Make sure it is low enough so they can access their stuff when they want it. You’ll also want to invest in an elevated dog feeder. This is essentially a platform where their food and water bowls sit a few inches off the floor. This is beneficial for dogs with arthritis or animals with health conditions, such as megaesophagus.
 
Prioritize hygiene.
 
Just because your pets are getting on up in years does not mean you can let their hygiene fall to the wayside. For example, even if stiff joints and muscles make it harder for your dog to climb in and out of the bath, you still need to bathe him periodically. Fortunately, installing a dedicated dog wash station is not that expensive or difficult. If you have an extra bathroom with a standup shower, you may even be able to get away with replacing a stationary showerhead with a hand sprayer so that you can get down on your dog’s level. If you want to invest in quality equipment, there are certainly ways to save. For instance, a Chewy promo code can help you get the gear you need to keep your pet clean without soaking your bank account.
 
Manage their safety.
 
The Humane Society of the United States points out that safety concerns should also be front and center. You can do things such as add baby gates to stairways and restrict their access to areas that could pose a health hazard. Spend an afternoon looking for potential problem areas, including outdoor fire pits and swimming pools, which can be fatal to a pet that falls in and cannot escape. Make sure he also has on a collar with your contact information in the off chance he wanders away from home and can’t find his way back.
 
Keeping your pets safe and comfortable is one of the best things you can do for them as their health and physical condition deteriorates with age. The above tips are the gold standard in home modifications for aging pets, no matter how much silver is in their muzzles.

Image via Pexels 

How to Help Your Dog Adjust to the Move

​There are many ways to help your dog feel comfortable and adjust to the move. From natural remedies to introducing new toys, feel free to try out various options to best fit your pet. A few helpful tips to consider are listed below: 

1. Natural Remedies. Remedies like CBD oil can help naturally ease your dog’s nerves. There are also essential oil sprays made for dogs that can make the environment feel less chaotic and more familiar. 
2. Introduce New Toys. Giving them a distraction can be a good way to ease anxiety. With new toys, your dog can feel a sense of excitement rather than fear that they have been experiencing. It brings about a positive feeling in a situation where they don’t necessarily feel comfortable. 

Bring in a Piece of the Old Home. In order to better transition the move, bringing in a piece of your old home into the new one can make things less overwhelming. Your dog will feel more comfortable with this piece from the past, leading to them feeling less anxious about the various boxes, new couch, and overall new structure of their living space. This can be a bed, toy, or piece of furniture that they enjoyed the most from the old house.

How to Help Your Dog Adjust to a New Home

Like people, dogs need time to adjust to a new place. Make your pup feel safe and protected in your new home, and ease the transition by taking a few extra steps when you move. If you take the time to help ease your pet's adjustment, your pet will adapt much more quickly and with a lot less stress.

Before the Move

Before bringing your dog inside the new home, put out his food and water bowls. Pick a permanent spot for his bed and put his favorite toys nearby. The dog will get the message that this is his space. It won't hurt to put a few treats near his eating and sleeping areas as well, so he will immediately associate positive feelings with these new spaces.

Don't forget to pet-proof your new place. Search around for any cords, debris, or nails sticking out in the carpet and baseboard areas. 

Making the Move

When you're moving your dog into a new home, make the move during the day. Dogs naturally feel more fearful at night, according to the American Kennel Club. If possible, move your dog during a bright day so he feels secure. As soon as possible, take him out to go explore the new yard. Let your dog lead you as he sniffs and explores. This will help him start to feel more comfortable more quickly with his new territory. 

Most importantly, don't rush your dog. Let him set the pace and explore new surroundings in his own time. If your dog would rather sleep than explore, let him sleep. He will go exploring the new home on his own, so don't try to speed up the process.

After the Move

Keep your dog's schedule as normal as possible. Maintain the same feeding times and walking times so he won't have to adjust to lots of new changes. Try to keep the house as quiet and calm as possible. According to PetFinder, too much excitement in a new place can make it harder for your dog to adjust.

Spend extra time with your dog after the move, so he knows that you are still a constant in his life. Talk out loud to your dog so he can hear the comforting sound of your voice and spend time petting and playing with him. This will help your pet begin to feel more relaxed.

If possible, don't leave your dog alone in the new house for too long in the first week. Being alone in a new place will increase your pet's anxiety. Spend as much time as you can with your dog and begin leaving the house gradually. Go away for less than an hour the first time, and then spend a little more time out of the house every day. 

Adapting Your Space

There’s a lot you can do to make your dog feel more relaxed and secure, but don't forget to take steps that will actually make your dog safer. Get new tags (which you can purchase for under $7.00) with your new information on them, and make sure your dog has them before you move.

Consider installing a fence around your property if there isn’t one already in place. According to HomeAdvisor, the average national price to install a new wood fence is $2,751.00. If you want to add a gate, you’ll likely spend an additional $200.00 - $600.00, depending on the materials and scope of the project. A fence will not only make your dog more comfortable, it will also give you peace of mind knowing that your pet is protected and safe. A new neighborhood comes with other dogs and wildlife, stray animals, children, and potential threats to your animal’s well-being.

Protecting Your Pet

Take the steps to make your dog feel protected and safe during a hectic time. Give your dog the attention he needs and deserves during a move that’s stressful for the both of you. With a little extra care, your dog will adapt to his new environment and be safe, healthy, and happy in your home -- just as you want him to be.


Photo credit: Pexels.com


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