Before the pandemic, Sugar and I moved into the place we live now. Between college, grad school, and new jobs, I’d moved several times before. However, this was the first time I moved with a dog.
Moving with Sugar took a lot more coordination than packing boxes. Especially, when it comes to mapping out a financial plan for the move. So, in this blog post we’re discussing how to create a financial plan to move with your dog.
STEP ONE: CREATE A BUDGET
As a dog mom, it’s not as easy to just pick up and go when you want to move. Before you start packing, it’s crucial that you create a financial plan. A budget will help you understand your moving expenses and allow you to plan accordingly. Moving costs should include standard moving costs and additional expenses related to your dog’s care and comfort. Below is a breakdown of expenses your budget should include.
Moving Company Fees – Whether you’re hiring professional movers or renting a moving truck, this is likely to be one of your biggest expenses in your financial plan. According to Forbes, the cost to hire movers can range between $200 and $12,000 based on the service needed. Get quotes from multiple companies and consider the cost of packing supplies, fuel, and any additional services like packing or unpacking.
Security Deposits and Pet Fees – If you’re renting a new home, you’ll need to budget for the security deposit and any pet-related fees. Some landlords require a pet deposit or monthly pet rent, so be sure to factor these costs into your budget.
Travel Expenses – The cost of travel expenses ranges based on the distance, mode of transportation, and other factors. If your move involves long-distance travel, you’ll need to budget for transportation, accommodation, and meals along the way. Don’t forget to include costs related to your dog, such as pet-friendly hotels, travel crates, and supplies for the journey.
Setting Up Your New Home – Once you arrive at your new home, there may be additional costs for setting your home, such as utilities, taxes, rental or homeowner insurance, maintenance and repairs, purchasing new furniture, to make your space comfortable for both you and your dog.
Veterinary Visits – Before the move, schedule a vet visit to ensure your dog is up to date on vaccinations and has a clean bill of health. If you’re moving to a new area, ask your vet for recommendations on local veterinarians. You can also reach out to local shelters, dog parents in the area, or even your new neighbors.
Pet Transportation – If you’re flying or using a pet transport service, these costs can be significant. Research your options early and book in advance to secure the best rates.
Moving Day Essentials – On moving day, your dog will need comfort items like food, water, toys, and bedding. Consider purchasing a few new toys or treats to keep your dog occupied during the move.
STEP TWO: GET YOUR MONEY TOGETHER
After you’ve created your budget, the next step to your financial plan is to get your money together. There are also ways to save money on your move. Here are a few steps to help you cut your expenses.
Downsize Before You Move – The more you move, the more it costs. Take the opportunity to declutter your home and donate or sell items you no longer need. Not only will this reduce your moving costs, but it will also make unpacking in your new home easier and more organized.
Compare Moving Quotes – Don’t settle for the first moving company you find. Get quotes from at least three different companies and compare their services and rates. Be sure to ask about any hidden fees, such as special item handling and storage fees, and inquire about discounts for booking early or during off-peak seasons.
DIY vs. Professional Movers – Decide whether it’s more cost-effective to hire professional movers or handle the move yourself. If you’re moving locally and have help from friends or family, renting a truck and doing the move yourself could save you money. However, for long-distance moves or if you have heavy furniture, hiring professionals might be worth the investment.
Reuse Packing Materials – Instead of buying new packing materials, try to reuse what you already have. Use towels, blankets, and clothing to wrap fragile items, and ask local stores for free boxes. You can also find gently used moving supplies through online marketplaces or community groups.
Book Pet-Friendly Accommodations in Advance – If your move involves overnight stays, book pet-friendly hotels in advance to secure the best rates. Many hotel chains offer discounts for booking directly through their website or for members of their loyalty programs.
STEP THREE: PREPARE YOUR DOG FOR THE MOVE
Moving can be stressful for dogs, especially when their routine is disrupted. Sugar suffered from a little anxiety once she started to see me pack up boxes. So, I had to make sure that I was mindful of her emotions and find ways to reduce her stress. Here are a few things that helped reduce Sugar’s anxiety.
Maintain a Routine – Sugar thrives on routine. So, I was intentional about keeping her schedule as consistent as possible during the move. I stuck to her regular feeding times, walks, and play sessions to provide a sense of stability.
Introduce Packing Gradually – I started packing a few weeks before we moved to give her time to adjust to the changes. I let Sugar sniff through the packing materials and boxes and avoid waited until the last minute to pack her bed and favorite toys.
Create a Safe Space – On the first day of the official move, I set her up in a quiet corner in my bedroom to keep her away from the movers. On the last two days of the move, I took her to my parents because she’s familiar with the environment. This way I could finish moving, reduce Sugar’s anxiety, and trust that she was comfortable in a safe and calm environment.
Plan for Travel Comfort – While riding in the car to our new place, I let Sugar sit in her bed in the car with her favorite blanket and toy. I even gave her a little peanut butter to snack on while we were in the car. It helped her feel more comfortable and secure during the ride. When traveling with your dog, invest in a sturdy travel crate or harness and bring along their favorite toys and treats. For long car rides, plan regular breaks for exercise and bathroom needs.
Introduce the New Home Gradually – Once we arrived in our new home, I let Sugar explore the space gradually. I started with one room and slowly introduce her to the rest of the house. There’s a space that gets a lot of natural sunlight that Sugar fell in love with. So, I set her bed and toys in that area so she can feel calm, safe, and enjoy her new space.
FINDING PET-FRIENDLY HOUSING
As a dog mom, finding pet friendly housing is one of the most important aspects of creating a financial plan to move with your dog. Whether you’re renting or buying, it’s crucial to ensure that your new home is suitable to your dog’s needs. Here are a few things to consider.
Start Your Search Early – Pet-friendly housing can be in high demand, so it’s important to start your search as early as possible. Use online platforms that specialize in pet-friendly rentals and be upfront with landlords or property managers about your dog. Provide references from previous landlords if needed to demonstrate that your dog is well-behaved and hasn’t caused any issues.
Consider Your Dog’s Needs – When choosing a new home, consider your dog’s specific needs. Look for properties with a fenced yard, nearby parks, or pet-friendly amenities. If your dog is older or has mobility issues, consider single-story homes or buildings with elevators.
Negotiate Pet Fees – Some landlords charge pet deposits or monthly pet rent, which can add up over time. Don’t be afraid to negotiate these fees, especially if you have a well-trained dog or if you’re willing to sign a longer lease. In some cases, landlords may be willing to waive or reduce pet fees if they see you as a responsible tenant.
Understand Local Pet Laws – Before moving, research the local pet laws in your new area. Some cities or neighborhoods have specific regulations regarding pet ownership, such as leash laws, breed restrictions, or the number of pets allowed per household. Understanding these laws will help you avoid potential fines or conflicts with neighbors.
ADJUSTING TO A NEW ENVIRONMENT
The first few weeks in a new home can be challenging for both you and your dog. I had to potty train Sugar all over again and put her on a new routine. I’ve learned that patience and consistency will be helpful in getting your dog to adjust to your new home. Here are a few tips.
Establish a New Routine – Once you’ve settled into your new home, establish a new routine for your dog. This includes regular feeding times, walks, and play sessions. A consistent routine will help your dog feel secure and adjust more quickly to their new surroundings.
Explore the Neighborhood Together – Take your dog on walks around your new neighborhood to help them get familiar with the area. Visit nearby parks, pet-friendly cafes, and local pet stores to explore new sights and smells.
Gradually Introduce New Experiences – Introduce aspects of your new neighborhood gradually. For example, if you’ve moved to a busier area, start with short walks during quieter times of the day and gradually increase the duration as your dog becomes more comfortable.
Monitor Your Dog’s Behavior – Keep an eye on your dog’s behavior during the first few weeks in your new home. Signs of stress or anxiety may include excessive barking, pacing, or changes in appetite. If you notice any concerning behaviors, consult with a veterinarian or a professional dog trainer for advice on how to help your dog adjust.
Make It Feel Like Home – Create an at-home Dog Mom & Me Date to give your dog a chance to experience the new home. You can bake pupcakes, cuddle up and watch a movie, or even create a home “sniffari” for your dog to explore the home. It’ll give you a fun way to make new memories with your dog and settle into your new home.
MAKING MONEY MOVES
Creating a financial plan to move with your dog really helps with that dough. Creating a budget, saving, and assessing Sugar and my needs made our move to our new home much smoother. It not only reduced Sugar’s and my stress levels, but it also gave both of us the chance to focus on the exciting new “start from scratch” journey that we were moving into. Preparation is key. So, start early, research your options, and prioritize you and your dog’s well-being will create a calmer moving experience.
We’d love to hear your pupcake story. What did you include in your financial plan to move with your dog? What do you do to prepare your dog for a move? Stay connected and share your pupcake stories with us @pupcakesugar.
Check out our pupcake recipe eBook, Sugar’s Dish: My Start from Scratch Story & 10 “Easy As Pupcake” Recipes to Try at Home. This eBook includes the Vegetable Medley Pupcake recipe and 9 other beginner pupcake recipes for you to try at home with your dog.
You’ll also get a chance to step into Sugar’s world. I love my dog, Sugar, and her daily shenanigans make me laugh. So, I created an illustrated character inspired by her and her love of pupcakes. Sugar’s character is a “pupcakepreneur” that owns and operates her own pupcakery called Pupcake Sugar. It’s a tongue twister, but it’s amazing what you can create when you let your imagination lead the way.
Also, sign up for the Pupcake Sugar mailing list to get Sugar’s favorite birthday pupcake recipe to try at home with your dog. It’s great for dog moms who are new to baking dog treats.
