Moving can be a stressful event, even for your pets. Sudden changes in daily activities or living arrangements can send your dogs into a bout of depression. If you've recently moved, and your dog is exhibiting signs of depression, such as sleeping more often, or not running to the door when you come home, you're going to need to make some adjustments to help pull them out of the blues. Here are three simple steps you can take to help your pet recover from depression.
Head Outdoors to New Places
Exercise is a great way to beat the blues. Taking your dog outside for some exercise will not only boost its morale, it will also improve its immune system. Try to take your dog out for a walk at least once a day. Gear your walks around how much time your dog wants to stay outside but try to extend the walk a little bit longer each day. Your dog may only want to walk around the block for the first few times, but daily walks can help your dog get back to enjoying the outdoors again as you explore new places together.
Introduce Them to New Friends
If your dog had friends at the old place, it might be missing the interaction with friends. If there's a dog park near your new house, take your dog out to meet new friends. The interaction with other dogs will help it overcome the sense of loss it might be experiencing at not having its old friends nearby. Not only that, but the dog park will allow your dog to get additional exercise during the day.
Make Life a New Adventure
If the move to your new house has resulted in your dog moping around all day, turn life into a new adventure. Hide treats throughout the house that your dog will have to find. For best results, invest in fillable dog toys, or KONGS. Fillable dog toys have openings in both ends that require the dog to work at getting the treats out. You can fill the KONGS with treats and leave them throughout the house. Your dog will have fun finding the treats.
If your recent move has your dog feeling depressed, you can help it overcome the emotional turmoil. Use the simple steps provided here to help your dog deal with the emotions it's experiencing as a result of the lifestyle changes. If your dog loses its appetite or refuses to interact, you should consult with a veterinarian at the local animal hospital. It may require additional treatment to overcome its depression.
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