Congratulations, you’ve decided to get a pet – this is an exciting time! Now to prepare for bringing them home. Here’s what you need to know…
Before They Arrive: Preparing Your Home
- The most important thing you need to do is get all your pet care essentials. We’ve got everything you need for a new pet, so why not peruse our site? If you’re unsure, ask your vet, breeder or shelter.
Here’s a checklist of essentials:
- Food bowl and water bowls
- Food and treats
- Collar with your info on it
- Leash if it’s a dog you’re bringing home
- Bedding
- Gates if you need them
- Kitty litter, litter box and scratching post if it’s a cat you’re bringing home
- Grooming essentials such as a brush or nail clippers for pets
- Toys
- If you’re adopting a pet with special needs, be sure to stock up on all the important medical supplies too
- Next, set down house rules – if it’s a dog you’re getting, who is responsible for walking them? Who will be feeding the pet? Will the pet be allowed on furniture? Where will they sleep? Is anything off-limits?
- Before bringing your new pet home, it’s important to have them vaccinated. If you have other pets at home, it’s also important to ensure they’re up to date on their shots and at full health before introducing a new pet. This will help prevent the spread of any potential diseases.
- Plan for their arrival – weekends are your best bet as they allow you to spend time at home getting your new pet comfortable with their new home and you! Make sure you minimise jealousy from other pets by paying attention to them as well.
The Day Of Arrival: What To Do
- Take your pet on a supervised tour. Allow your new pet to sniff out their new home without any other pets or people around. This will help to minimise any fear and familiarise them with the scent of other animals and people in your home.
- Once introductions to the new space have been made get your pet settled. Before giving your pet free reign in your home, it’s best to restrict them to a room or smaller area to avoid overwhelming them. Put everything they need to feel settled in this space – bedding, food, water, toys etc. Once they seem more comfortable, you can gradually allow them into more areas.
- Give your pet a spot it can call its own – and if you have other animals - away from your other pets’ spots. Try putting up a crate in their spot or bedding where it can keep its favourite toys and eat away from other pets until they’re totally settled in. Having their own little safe space will help your new pet feel more comfortable.
- If you have other pets, introduce them slowly in a controlled environment. You can try introducing your pets through a baby gate or with the new pet in your arms. If it’s two dogs meeting, try introducing them in a neutral area like the beach, a dog park or a friend’s place. Keep these interactions quick and supervised. If one becomes aggressive or very nervous, be prepared to step in and separate them immediately.
- If you have pets at home already, avoid jealousy by ensuring you give them loads of attention and love too!
Long-term Care: How to Ensure Happiness For You & Your Pet
- Create a routine for your new pet and set house rules from the get go. Don’t become lax over time or this will lead to bad behaviours creeping in. If you’ve got a new dog, make sure you schedule in routine exercise and play time. If you have a new cat, ensure you take time out every day to play with them and show them affection.
- Lastly, remember that it can take up to two or three months for a pet to settle in, so be patient. Reward their good behaviours with treats and affection. If they do something wrong, don’t shout. In a calm and disapproving voice, let them know immediately that they’ve misbehaved.
Looking for more pet care essentials? Take a look at our catalogue or shop online
