What to expect when you’re expecting
(a new fur-mily member!)
Here are some essential things to consider when preparing to bring home a new pet – how to prepare yourself, your home, and your family for the new arrival!
Welcoming a new furry family member into your home can be a fulfilling and thrilling experience. However, it’s important to thoughtfully consider and plan for this significant decision to ensure that you and your pet can enjoy a long, happy and healthy life together. Whether you choose to adopt from a shelter, or work with a responsible breeder, taking care of your new fur baby is a big responsibility that comes with a lot of love and joy.
It’s crucial to do your research before making a decision. If you’re interested in a particular breed or species, it’s crucial to consider any unique challenges that may arise for them. For instance: training for puppies, consistently providing fresh veggies for rabbits, having separate litter boxes for multiple cats, or any common potential health issues should all be considered ahead of time. Our Pet Care Specialists are always available to address any special concerns you may have, and will help you get prepared to ensure a happy and healthy life for your new fur baby.
Preparing for a new pet can be overwhelming, but gathering essentials beforehand can make the process less stressful and chaotic. Having everything prepared ahead of time will ensure a smoother transition. To help you remember everything you need, we can provide shopping lists for your convenience! You can receive a new puppy or kitten checklist by clicking the link below.
Now it’s time to prepare your home for the new arrival! Start by protecting your furry friends and keeping your furniture and other belongings safe with these simple house proofing steps.
Here’s what you can do:
- Raise any exposed wires and put away any items that your pet may chew or damage. Animals like puppies and rats love to chew on anything they can reach, risking injury from things such as electric wires or ingesting something that could hurt their digestive system.
- Block off restricted rooms with a gate so they can’t get into things they shouldn’t, and this also provides boundaries for existing pets to have their own space away from the new fur baby.
- Close off tight spaces or under furniture. New pets may want to hide to feel more secure in their new environment, and can easily get stuck or become unreachable.
- Make sure all plants are out of reach as many can be poisonous to our pets, or insure that they are all pet-safe varieties.
- Secure trash can lids, and put locks on cupboards so their curiosity can’t get them into anything that looks or smells like treats, but could be potentially harmful.
By following these tips, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that your home is a safe environment for your beloved pets.
To set up a new fur baby’s space, choose a separate low-traffic area or a gated space, and provide food, water, a bed, a bathroom spot, and toys. Great tip is to sleep with any toys or bedding for a few days prior to your fur baby’s arrival, so they are comforted by your scent! For small animals, place their cage in a quiet area. It is vital to keep the space separate from other animals until proper supervised introductions can be made. You can expand the space as your pet gets settled and becomes more familiar with their new home.
It’s a great idea to involve other family members in the care of your new fur baby! To make the transition smoother for everyone, establishing a routine will help everyone stay on the same page. Creating a schedule for feeding, potty breaks, outdoor time, and playtime can help your pet feel more comfortable and secure in their new home. Be sure to communicate this schedule with everyone involved in their care.
Prepare existing pets for a new arrival by gradually introducing them to the new fur baby, making sure they have their own space away from the new pet, and continuing to give them the same amount of attention and love as before. This can help prevent any potential jealousy or aggression towards the new addition.
When bringing a new pet home, remember to be patient as it may take them a few days or weeks to settle in. Consistency in schedule and positive interactions can help them gain confidence in their new routine and environment, which is especially important for rescue animals.
When rescuing an animal, keep in mind that you may not have all the information about their past experiences. These experiences can influence their behavior and reactions, so remember to approach them with patience and understanding. Additionally, it’s crucial to recognize that it can take time for the animal to adjust to their new environment and that the first few hours, days, and even weeks can be crucial in helping them feel comfortable and safe.
PRO TIP: Cats can take longer to adjust than other pets. Feliway can help!
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Getting ready for a new furry addition takes thoughtful consideration and planning to ensure their well-being and happiness. Researching the specific considerations for your new fur baby, creating a warm environment, buying the necessary supplies ahead of time, and establishing a routine for feeding, exercise, and training are all crucial steps to take to welcome home your new fur-mily member!
