Great News!
You are expecting a brand new pet! Preparing your home for your new family member can be as exciting as it is stressful. We’ve created this quick guide to help you check off what you need to make your pet comfortable and happy.
Get the Basics:
Make sure to provide them with the basic items like:
- Food (canned and/or dry)
- Food and water dishes
- Litter, litter box and a scoop (for cats)
- Kennel or crate (for dogs)
- Leash, harness and/or carrier for travel
- A comfy bed
- Scratchers (for cats)
- Toys, treats and chews (for both!)
In addition to having these basic items, it is best to create a safe and separate space for a new pet. This allows them time to adjust to their new environment and get used to all sorts of new smells.
Pet Proofing:
You never actually know what your pet can get into without taking a look around your home. When pet proofing your home, take into consideration:
- Blocking off tight, small or off limits places (such as mechanical closets or behind appliances)
- Putting away cleaning supplies and other household chemicals
- Keeping food and trash out of reach
- Removing or securing plants, especially those that may be harmful to animals
- Putting breakable items away and tucking in wires
- Checking your your yard for items that could be sharp or hazardous to eat
Introducing Your New Pet to Current Pets:
If you have other pets in your home, you should not rush into immediate friendship with your newly adopted pal. Introductions can take time and it’s best to go at your animals’ pace.
Once you have your new animal settled in their separate space, you can slowly start the introduction process. Animals, whether cats or dogs, are very smell oriented. Their sense of smell gives them almost all the information they need to learn about the world. Try swapping smells by giving your new pet a well used bed from your current pet and vice versa.
After a while, it’s time to associate good things, like treats or play, with each other. When it’s time for their first face to face meeting, allow them to meet each other with both animals secured on a leash, in a carrier or through a door. It may take a few face to face meetings before they are comfortable!
Animal to animal introductions can take time and don’t always go to plan. If you need more tips on pet introductions, visit YouTube or stay tuned for our helpful guide to pet introductions.
Creating Routines:
After all the supplies are gathered and your new pet feels comfortable, start them on a good food and exercise routine. Animals feel most at home when things are predictable and experiences are positive.
Creating Memories:
Congratulations on adopting a shelter animal! We know just how special they can be and cannot wait to hear how you grow together. If you would like to share how your new friend is getting along in their forever home, visit our Facebook page: Cache Humane Happy Tails. You can post pictures and updates to share with all our staff, volunteers, fosters and supporters.
