Greenville, South Carolina is a beautiful city – and it’s a doggy paradise thanks to its warm climate and bountiful recreational activities. With numerous parks in the area, canines of all sizes will be delighted to romp across grassy plains and go swimming in sparkling cool ponds.

However, it’s hard to explain to your four-legged friend that there will be brand new adventures on the other side of all those cardboard boxes, especially if they are anxious about the many changes in their lives. Dogs are creatures of habit, and they don’t like dramatic shifts to their environment, so it’s understandable that moving can be incredibly difficult for a dog to handle.

More than that, they may face new perils once they’ve settled into their new home, so it’s important to consider this as you pack up all their toys and treats. Today, we’ll discuss how to keep your dog comfortable as you move, the issues they may face in South Carolina, and how to find a great Greenville veterinarian to pamper your dog in the Palmetto State.

For a Dog-Friendly Move, Slow and Steady Is the Best Plan

Stressful as moves are on humans, they are even more so for dogs, who don’t understand what’s happening as well as you do. As such, it’s important that you consider how to keep your dog comfortable during the disorienting and overwhelming moving process. 

First, introduce them to the moving process as slow as you can: let them watch you pack up some boxes, and allow them to explore the sights, sounds, and smells involved. You might give them a special toy to play with while you’re packing so that they associate the process with something fun, and offer them a healthy treat once you’re done for the day so that they feel rewarded for being patient.

Though things may be changing rapidly in their environment, make sure that you keep some familiar routines for them. Feed and walk them at the same times each day, and don’t pack up their bedding or favorite toys until you’re almost out the door, as this will make sure they have somewhere comfortable to retreat to during the hectic moving process.

You should ensure that you have all their essentials on hand during transit by packing a separate bag for them with their leash, blankets, food bowls, and most beloved toys; these should be some of the first things in the door so that they recognize that this is their new home.

Remember that a bit of research goes a long way when it comes to making a seamless transition to your new life. Get in contact with a veterinarian in Greenville the instant that you know you will be moving so that you can establish a relationship; once you’re in South Carolina, wait a few days or weeks before introducing your dog to the vet so that they are in a calmer state of mind. Be sure to look for local dog parks, dog beaches, and great walking trails, as a tired dog is a happy dog who will more readily accept their new home.

If you’re new to the state, it’s important to know some of the dangers that are specific to this area of the United States. Let’s take a look at some common health issues that crop up in South Carolina, as well as how a vet can help combat these problems so that your dog stays happy and healthy all throughout their time in Greenville.

Heat and Humidity Can Cause Major Problems for Dogs

One of the biggest issues for South Carolinian dogs are heat-related health conditions, including heat stroke. This is an especially major problem for flat-faced dogs like pugs and French bulldogs, who may go into cardiac arrest because they cannot pant enough to disperse heat.

If you have a brachycephalic dog, pay close attention to the heat and humidity, and try to limit your dog’s time outdoors when it’s too hot. For all dog breeds, be sure to provide plenty of cold water and shady spots when it’s warm and humid, and take them inside if you notice that they are panting heavily or seem lethargic.

Other concerns include burned paws from walking on hot asphalt or concrete; this can be very painful and require medical intervention. Before taking your dog on a walk, try walking a few steps barefoot on the surface: if it’s too hot for your feet, it’s too hot for your dogs, too. Teach your dog to wear shoes with a hard sole, and ensure they wear them any time it’s too hot.

If they’re reluctant, walk them in the morning before the sun rises, when the surfaces should still be cool to the touch. Your veterinarian can provide advice on how to pick the right shoes for your dog, as well as helpful tips on how to get Fido to enjoy wearing boots.

Moving anywhere is a great adventure, but Greenville is an especially wonderful place for both dogs and humans to enjoy. If you’re lucky enough to move here with your furry best friend, be sure to make the process as easy as possible by following these tips – and get in touch with a local vet so that you have a trusted ally in canine health as soon as you arrive.