Selling and Buying a Home and How to Consider the Dog

There are many factors to consider when buying and selling a home. When you add your pets to the mix, there is, even more, to think about. Among all the considerations with putting your house on the market — staging it for potential buyers and shopping for the next ideal place for your family — it’s often easy to neglect the anxiety our furry friends experience with the chaos of moving. Keeping a few things in mind can ensure that your dog is not overwhelmed by the changes and that you are successful in your transition and the selling of your home.

A few things to keep in mind when shopping for a home as a dog owner:

• The yard: What are your pet’s exercise needs? Is your dog outside playing a large part of the day? Is there a shaded area in the backyard? Can your dog jump the fence?
• Layout considerations: Does the house have stairs that might make it difficult for your dog to get around? Is there enough space for them to move comfortably?
• Neighborhood: Research the local law and ordinances regarding pet registration and licensing. Find out whether you’re in pet-friendly neighborhoods. Talk to neighbors and locals, and keep an eye out for nearby dog parks.
• Keeping track: Despite your best efforts, there’s always a risk that your dog could escape from your yard. Having a good ID tag and even a GPS tracker to help you find your missing pooch will give you peace of mind. However, when purchasing a GPS tracker, read reviews beforehand to give you an idea of which is the most effective.

Dogs are creatures of habit. So when their surroundings are shifting and their routine becomes scattered, they can experience anxiety which can lead to other health complications, especially in older pets. Here are a few considerations that can keep your dog happy and healthy throughout this tumultuous time.

• Keep his bed or sleeping quarters stationary as long as possible. This provides a feeling of comfort.
• Maintain a similar routine. With everything going on it might be difficult to maintain the regular schedule, but keeping one or two things consistent will help maintain some order and familiarity. Keep feeding and walk times as consistent as possible.
• Consider CBD. Many pet owners are turning to CBD as way to soothe their pet’s anxiety. If you’ve got an anxious pup, this might be a natural way to provide relief. Get the go ahead from your vet first, and be sure to research brands and dosages before you purchase.
• Don’t neglect exercise. Ensuring they get their proper exercise helps against building anxiety and burns off excess energy.
• Give extra treats. As part of your positive reinforcement for good behavior, give him a few extra treats here and there. You can even make your own so you control all of the ingredients, ensuring his snacks are healthy.

When it comes time to stage your home for potential buyers, it can get tricky. Staging your home is an important step toward making it more attractive and marketable. You want to showcase the potential of your home and highlight its strengths to help buyers imagine themselves in the space. This might mean getting rid of furniture or rearranging rooms, removing clutter and personal belongings like family photos. You want to feature the unique layout of your home by brightening up dark spaces and using lighting and furniture arrangements.

When it comes to your dog:

• Get the dog’s bedding, toys, and bowls out of the way.  Many buyers don’t want to know there was a dog living in the house.
• Make sure there is no trace of scratched doors or stained carpets from pet accidents. Don’t forget to remove dog hair from furniture.
• Ensure the exterior of your home is inviting. Clear the yard of holes or messes your dog might have left behind.

You love your dog and are positive he wouldn’t hurt a fly. However, it’s best not to have your dog around during showings. According to the Balance, relocating your dog for a few days is the best option. You might consider finding a friend or neighbor that will care for your pet temporarily. Doggy daycare or hiring a pet sitter is another possibility you can easily explore online. If none of these options work, take your dog out while a potential buyer views the home. For the safety of your dog and any visitor, you don’t want them wandering around loose inside the home.  

Pay plenty of attention to your dog during and after the move. He’s looking at you for comfort and this is when he’ll need you most. You love your pets and keeping them safe and calm during a chaotic time will help the transition and ensure your four-legged companion will thrive in your new dream home.