It's an exciting time to bring home a new fur baby, especially when you're becoming a pet parent for the first time. And because you are about to welcome a new member into your family, it's important to carefully consider and plan how best to go about it.
You will have many items to prepare for your new pet to ensure their safety, comfort, routines, and food. We have come up with five helpful tips for first-time pet parents to help you navigate the transitional period of time for your new pet in their new home.
#1: Get all the supplies you need before bringing your pet home
Moving to a new place is an exciting day for pets. Make sure your pet is comfortable by buying all the necessary items and setting them up before they arrive. This will allow you to be there for your pet as they move into their new home. Some pets require special supplies, like fish and reptiles, but the basic supplies for all pets are:
Food and water - find out what the pet's current diet is, to ensure they don't feel stressed or upset during the transition
Dishes - small pets may require a water bottle
Confinement - exercise pen, crate, cage, aquarium, collar, and leash
Elimination - litter box, litter, scoop, potty pads, and pick up bags for solid waste
Exercise - toys and structures that can be used to climb, hide, and perch
Mental stimulation - food puzzles, interactive toys, and an enriched environment (e.g. window perches, cat trees, hiding boxes)
Safe cleaning products - check the product labels, birds, cats, and reptiles are all susceptible to certain chemicals
Phone numbers - of your veterinarian, emergency veterinarian, urgent care veterinarian, and the poison control line for pets
#2: Choose a pet that fits your lifestyle
Pets can be a lifetime commitment. Unfortunately, many pets are picked for their physical characteristics or popularity, and they are then surrendered to shelters when they are not able to live in their new homes.
Don't let yourself be swayed by the superficial - instead, select a species or breed based on your lifestyle. Although pet quizzes may help narrow your choices, it is important to start with the basics:
What time can I dedicate to my pet?
Can I afford to feed, house, groom, and care for this species or breed?
Is it possible to properly exercise my pet?
Does my indoor environment provide a safe and appropriate environment for this species of pet?
Do I have the right support system to care for my pet?
Do all the family members want a pet?
Reach out to local and national breed clubs, training groups, or organizations when researching potential pets. This will allow you to meet experts and hobbyists that specialize in your breed or species. You can visit local events such as reptile, dog, and cat shows to see the animals in person.
It can be difficult to predict the personality and size of a rescue pet. Instead, meet the pet ahead of time. You can ask about foster-to-adopt opportunities so that you can get to know your pet and make sure you are a good match before you complete the adoption process.
#3 - Create a routine to train your pet
When pets can predict what the future will bring, they feel secure and confident. It is important to ensure that your pet has all of their daily needs met, including sleeping, eating, and exercising.
Consistent food and exercise will help with litter box training or potty training. Throughout the day, communicate calmly with your pet. Do not be rushed or emotional. You want to create trust and a sense belonging.
#4: Set up your pet's area and pet-proof your house
Your pet should be kept in a restricted area when they arrive home. This can be a small crate, a small room, or an exercise pen for kittens and puppies.
A small area can help with litter box training and housebreaking, as well as keeping your curious pet safe. It doesn't matter how large or small your pet may be, pet-proofing is vital to avoid injuries and emergencies.
Supervise your pet when they're not in a crate
Blocking access by closing doors or placing barriers (e.g., baby gates, exercise pens)
Disconnecting electrical cords from pet's area
All common pet poisons, including poisonous houseplants, must be removed
Moving small, breakable items
Secure all hanging cords, curtains, and draping articles
Keeping trash cans behind a barrier
#5 - Visit your regular veterinarian within one week
After your pet has settled in for a few days, you can take them to the veterinarian for a thorough examination. You can ask questions about their health and basic care. In the event that you require non-scheduled medical care, it will establish you as an existing patient with an emergency vet clinic like Companion Veterinary & Urgent Care Center.
It's an exciting and rewarding adventure to share your life with a pet. However, it is important that you plan properly in order to have a safe and enjoyable experience. A consistent routine, good preparation, and a healthy pet will bring you many years of companionship, happiness, and health.
Although your regular veterinarian is the best resource for pet health, our emergency vet services are available 24/7. For non-life-threatening illness or accidents after hours, please contact Companion Veterinary & Urgent Care Center. Your pet will be glad to get immediate, professional, and friendly treatment.
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