Even though it was raining, Maisey and I ventured outside today to Alberta Park. I didn’t plan ahead, unfortunately, and Alberta Park was muddy. Coming from Phoenix, we haven’t had the chance to play in the rain and mudd much, but it was no surprise that Maisey loved it.

We’ve both been a little stressed, and it turns out muddy shoes and paws, a wet car interior and off leash romping in the rain was just what we needed.

I just wish I had thought ahead to bring a towel.

My trip from Phoenix to Portland wasn’t easy. Packing, unpacking, getting lost in a new town, and those first grocery trips for a new place that can top $400. It’s been stressful, so I decided to treat myself to a facial tomorrow morning. But I’m not the only one a little stressed out about the new environment, Maisey is too! She hasn’t been eating as much, she’s not totally comfortable in the new digs and is basically staying as close to me as she can. Right now, she’s fast asleep and I’m glad. Hopefully a good nap will rest her anxious mind. Ever since I set up her crate, she’s been hanging out in there. I’m sure it’s familiar and comfortable to her.

So what are the best ways to make a transition like this easier on our pets? Here are a few things I’ve picked up along the way:

• Keep familiar items available and out in the open - As soon as I set up Maisey’s crate, she was eager to jump right in and take a nap.
• Bring their toys out to play - Maisey lightened up when I unpacked her favorite squeeky duck.
• Show them around - Maisey and I scoped out the new digs together. I gave her plenty of time to sniff around the new backyard and to explore each room in the house.
• Don’t leave for an extended period of time, too soon - I’ve been taking short trips out of the house (20-30 minutes). Until this feels like home for her, she might worry I’m not coming back.
• Reward them for the little things – If they go potty outside (even if they’ve been potty trained for a long time) reward them! Practice a few sit and stays with a reward. Dogs like structure and consistency, so this should be comforting to them.  
• Don’t encourage the anxiety – At my old place, Maisey hated the balcony. Here, she appears to fear the refriderator. I’m practicing walking through the kitchen with her and making it no big deal. The worst thing you can do is baby them or pick them up and coddle them, it will make them think the anxiety or fear is warranted.

Most of all, be understanding. The move can be just as, if not more so stressful for your pet, as it is for you. Dogs are creatures of habit and don’t enjoy change. A little care and attention can make the whole process easier on both of you.

Tomorrow Maisey and I are leaving for Portland. This move is so much more for me than just a new job in a new state, it’s the sunset of a very emotional chapter in my life. A chapter full of happiness, sadness, pain and faith. Those who know me, or have read my “about me” page know some of what the past two years brought for me.

So I prepare to depart on a very bittersweet journey tomorrow, which ignites both excitement and sadness in my heart. I’m listening to a song that speaks those emotions far better than I ever could.

The Heart of Life

I hate to see you cry
Lying there in that position
There’s things you need to hear
so turn off your tears
and listen

Pain throws your heart to the ground
love turns the whole thing around
no it wont all go the way it should
but I know the heart of life is good

You know it’s nothin’ new
bad news never had good timing
then the circle of your friends
will defend the silver lining

Pain throws your heart to the ground
love turns the whole thing around
no it won’t all go the way it should
But I know the heart of life is good

Pain throws your heart to the ground
love turns the whole thing around
fear is a friend who is misunderstood
but I know the heart of life is good 

- John Mayer