I used to think moving was tough. That was before I moved with two overly curious, mildly dramatic dogs. Let me tell you, it’s a different game. Moving with pets is just pure chaos. I tried to wing it, and it showed. I should’ve planned better. I should’ve booked a man and van in Walthamstow. Here’s what I learned the hard way, so you don’t have to.
Go Easy on Your Dog
You’ve packed up their favorite blankets. Their food bowls are in a box. The sofa they nap on is wrapped in plastic. Your dogs aren’t moving with you; they’re just watching their entire world vanish into cardboard. It didn’t help that I kept disappearing out the front door with boxes. Next time, I’ll create a quiet space with their toys, water, and a closed door. They need a little corner of calm in the middle of the madness.
Skip the DIY Move
Moving solo sounds brave. With dogs? It’s unwise. You’re juggling boxes and barking. You forget essentials like leads or their food. It’s like trying to juggle jelly. A man and van service takes the pressure off. While they handle the heavy lifting, you keep the dogs out of the firing line. No unexpected runs into traffic. No chewed-up packing tape.
Avoid Moving Day Mayhem
On moving day, I learned that open doors and curious dogs don’t mix. Mine tried to bolt twice. I ended up chasing them in socks, which I strongly advise against. This time around, I’d ask a friend to watch them. Even better, I’d board them for a night or two. Keep the stress away, for them and for me. It’s easier to focus on the move when you’re not worried someone’s about to escape mid-lift.
Ensure Familiar Smells Along the Way
Don’t wash everything before the move. Keep one blanket unwashed, one toy dirty. They sound gross, but they smell like home. And that matters when everything else feels strange. In the new place, set up their corner before anything else. Water bowl. Blanket. Favorite toy. A bit of familiarity goes a long way.
Hire a Professional Man and Van Service
If you’re relocating anywhere in or around Wimbledon, don’t gamble on random van rentals or flaky friends. The team at Man and Van Wimbledon offers a reliable, no-nonsense service that’s made for real-life moves, dogs, delays, and all. They’re flexible with timing, quick to respond, and know how to handle both precious cargo and unpredictable pets. Having someone you can actually count on during a chaotic day isn’t a luxury; it’s the smartest decision you’ll make. Keep your focus on the dogs; let them handle the heavy lifting. So, remember, if you’re moving with dogs, remember this: they’re not cargo.
They’re your furry passengers. Your job is to keep them safe, calm, and out of the way. The move is temporary. The trauma from a chaotic move isn’t. Plan ahead. Get help. And don’t expect your dog to understand why their bed just got rolled in bubble wrap.…