Opening up your home to a new pet is an exciting time for your family. Not only are you expanding your family, but you are giving that pet a second chance at life when you adopt from a shelter. During the first couple of weeks, your new pet may experience a variety of emotions as they adjust to their life with you and your family. It’s important that you take the time to help your pet adjust to their new environment so that they feel like they a valued member of your family.
Here are our top five tips for making your new pet as comfortable as possible:
Be patient
The first couple of days are usually the biggest adjustment for your new pet as they navigate their new environment and family members. Dedicate 2-3 days when your pet first comes home to help establish that bond between the two of you. This will also help your pet become accustomed to the family’s daily routine.
Designate a safe space for your pet
Prior to your pet’s arrival, it is important that you identify where in the house you want your pet to have access to. For example, if you do not want your pet to go upstairs, we recommend getting a barrier of some kind to block their ability to go to that part of the house.
Food
If you aren’t sure what type of food your new pet will require, ask the breeder or animal shelter what they recommend or had been giving your pet already. Alternatively, you could always reach out to your local veterinarian for their expert opinion.
Supplies
When you bring home your new pet, you’ll want to be sure that you have all of the supplies you’ll need for their comfort and well-being. Depending on what kind of animal you decide upon, there are a few basic supplies that your pet with require. For example, if you bring a new dog into your family, they will require a bed, a brush, containers for their food and water, toys, treats, a collar, and a leash. If you aren’t sure what items you need, simply ask the animal shelter or breeder and they will be able to give you a list!
Names
When you bring home a new pet, one of the hardest decisions you’ll have to make is what to name them. If you adopt from an animal shelter, they will usually encourage you to use the name the pet was previously given. The important thing to remember is that once you’ve given your pet a name, it is vital that you stick to it so that your pet can learn it quickly.
During this exciting time, it’s important that you take the necessary steps to ensure that your new pet adjusts to your family. The sooner this happens, the sooner you and your family can begin to create memories with your pet that will last a lifetime.
