Getting a pet is an exciting time, but it can be nerve racking if it’s your first time bringing a four-legged friend home. While owning a pet is a huge responsibility, it doesn’t have to be stressful. There are a number of tips you can follow to make the transition to pet ownership easier.
Make sure you have the right supplies
First and foremost, you want to make sure you are prepared to bring your pet home. Knowing what supplies to have on hand is important. You will need everything from food and bowls to leashes and toys. Check out our quick list to get started.
Assume your pet isn’t house or litter trained
With new pets, it is hard to know if they are trained to go to the bathroom in the appropriate place. It’s better to assume your new pet isn’t trained. Use treats to train your pet where to use the bathroom. If you have a puppy, he will need to be let out several times a day. As for cats, you should place their litter box somewhere easy to find. There are a number of resources to learn how to house train a pet, and a quick Google search can help you find the information you need.
Create a routine and stick to it
Pets do better when they know what to expect. If you have a daily routine, you should stick to it as best you can. Of course, you will need to adjust your day to day a little to accommodate your pet’s needs, but you shouldn’t uproot your entire life either. This will help your pet adjust to his new life without too much unexpected change once things settle down.
Find a veterinarian you and your pet like
Just like you, your pet needs to be established with a doctor. Or in this case, a veterinarian. You should schedule an appointment with a veterinarian as soon as your new pet comes home. They will help you get him set up on his annual shots, exams and more. And you can establish a rapport with the veterinarian in case of emergency.
Be patient
New pets come with new challenges that may test your patience. In these moments, it is important to remember that these challenges are likely temporary. Getting frustrated when your pet has an accident or chews on something he shouldn’t will only cause more confusion for him on what is right and wrong. Patience and positive reinforcement training are the best approach to helping him learn the rules of his new home.
