Moving to a new home carries its share of stress. Changes in routine and disorientation, loss of familiar places and friends can take a toll. Even prepared, there’s always an adjustment period.

Your pets go through this with no understanding and little warning.

Doctor Cameron Larson, of Lake Grove Veterinary Clinic, offers advice on moving with your pets. It’s amazing the warm common sense your vet can share, if you only ask.

Some of the behaviors your pet learned were dependent upon the environment – and now that’s changed.

Dogs often check out new things in their territory, and now everything is new. If your pup likes to chew, he may start chomping away on things he never touched in the old house. He might mark territory, or take up barking after being relatively quiet in the old home.

Cats like to explore, and now have a whole new realm. He may possibly climb to forbidden places – such as kitchen counters – which he never did before. He might destroy a chair he used to sleep on in the old house.

A lot of their learned behaviors were learned in a different environment. They’re not rebelling – they’re disoriented and trying to make sense of it all.

Here’s Dr. Larson’s tips to help your pet:

1) Spend time showing your pet his new home. Walk him through the house and show him where his bed is, his water dish, dog door or cat flap, toys, etc.

2) If the pet sleeps with a kid or in your own bedroom, show him these with the person on the bed. If you don’t allow a dog upstairs, try putting a temporary gate up to block him, and show him the gate.

3) With a new backyard to explore, take him outside. Toss a ball if that’s his thing, or let him roam around while you catch your breath from unpacking.

4) Be mindful of what you leave laying around as you unpack. It’s not just your favorite sweater within reach, but chemical cleaners or anything that might harm your pet would make a bad day.

5) Make that first walk fun and joyful. Explore the new area together, even meet a few neighbors.

Finally, remember your pet picks up on your emotions. If you’re angry and stressed out it will add to his own stress. Take time to manage yourself as well, and everyone will be happier.