New Pet? Here’s What You Need to Know!

Bringing home a puppy or kitty is an exciting time! But are you – and your home – ready for a furry friend? Keep reading to learn what you need to know before you bring home a new pet.

Adopting a new pet is a time of excitement and sometimes nerves, too! But with some thoughtful planning before you bring them home, you can make the transition smoother and stress-free for the newest family member (and yourself)!

Check the Rules

Before adopting any animal, be sure to check with your HOA, property management, or municipality for banned breeds, weight restrictions, and even the number of animals allowed for your residence.

Choose Wisely

Before adopting a furry friend, do your research and pick the right one for your lifestyle, home, activity level, free time, and even allergies! If you have a family, make sure the decision to adopt is a family decision. Every animal is a lifelong commitment as well as a shared responsibility for every family member.

Unsure which pet is right for you or your family? Talk to trainers, shelter staff, or other professionals to fully understand what you are signing up for with a specific pet.

Also, keep in mind the costs of having one. Large to giant breed dogs eat more while other dogs require regular, costly grooming. When it comes to owning a pet, consider the following:

Additional pet rent and/or deposit
Food & treats
Supplies (bedding, crate and carrier, brushes and nail trimmers, toys, collars, leashes, harnesses, identification, microchip and registration, bowls (food and water) and food storage containers, pet cleaning supplies, litter box and litter, baby gate, etc.)
Insurance
Preventative vet care and vaccinations, general veterinary care
Grooming
Boarding
Pet sitting or daycare services

Preparing Your Home

Any new parent will tell you to carefully “childproof” your home. The same goes for your new addition! They are eternally curious and learn about their environment through their nose and mouth.

When pet-proofing your home, address the following potential dangers:

Cleaning supplies (Click here for the Pet Health Network list)
Poisonous/toxic plants (Click here for the ASPCA list)
Food or snacks (Click here for the ASPCA list)
Knick-knacks (including plastic or glass items)
Jewelry (especially small earrings or pins that can be easily swallowed)
Electrical wires and cords
Medicines
Secure lower cabinets with locks
Protect outlets with covers
Repair any broken window screens
Clothes or shoes laying around
Trash containers, debris, and recyclables

Invest in Training & Socialization

To create and nurture the best relationship, invest the time and money for professional, expert training. Also include all family members so everyone is on the same page when it comes to expectations, boundaries and vocabulary for the brand-new furry friend.

Remember, it’s never too early to start!

Training is never a one-and-done process. Ongoing training helps nurture the bond and communication between you and your pet throughout their lifetime. Extra training should also be brought in to address any negative behaviors or issues before the issues escalate!

Local Resources

Below are a few other things to do before your new family member comes home:

Find/meet local veterinarians (maybe a holistic/integrative vet too) and animal hospital
Identify local services (pet sitting, dog walking, groomers, etc.)
Locate off-leash parks

Remember, the more time and effort you put into finding the right one and preparing for their arrival, the greater the success for you and your pet!